Exploring the Romanticism of Taylor Swift’s “The Lakes” and its Tribute to William Wordsworth

In a modern twist on the Romantic poets of the 18th century, Taylor Swift’s song “The Lakes” pays tribute to William Wordsworth and his fellow poets who valued emotional expression over logic and reason.

Swift’s song, which is the 17th and final track on her album “Folklore (Deluxe Version),” references the Romantic movement and its emphasis on empathy, instinct, and the correlation between joy and imagination. The lyrics of “The Lakes” reflect Swift’s introspective and poetic style, drawing parallels to Wordsworth’s own work.

William Wordsworth, known as one of the founders of the Romantic movement, found inspiration in the natural landscape of England’s Lake District. He wrote many of his famous poems at Dove Cottage, which is now a museum dedicated to his legacy.

In “The Lakes,” Swift muses on the value of her own words and draws a connection to Wordsworth’s belief that poetry is a spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings. The song captures the essence of Romanticism, with references to solitude, nature, and introspection.

As Swift navigates her own journey through fame and self-discovery, she channels the spirit of Wordsworth and other Romantic poets who found solace and inspiration in the beauty of the world around them. Through “The Lakes,” Swift pays homage to a literary tradition that continues to inspire artists and poets to this day.