Global superstar Taylor Swift released her highly anticipated 12th studio album “The Life Of A Showgirl” on October 3, 2025. Swift describes the album as a look behind the curtain of what was occurring in her life offstage during the 21 month span of The Eras Tour.
I waited up until midnight to listen to all twelve tracks, and here are my honest thoughts.
Back to pop
Swift’s last few albums featured much more melancholy songs that included gut-wrenching lyrics and somber tempos. This album couldn’t be more opposite. It’s upbeat, flashy and quite unfiltered. Swift collaborated with Max Martin and Shellback, two producers she worked with on the albums “Red” and “1989”. These collaborators bring out the bluntness of Swift’s writing style. They mix together raw lyrics with an extremely vibrant sound. Swift reconnects with her pop writing style on these songs which is her strongest genre.
Standout tracks
The opening track “The Fate Of Ophelia” is a prime example of Swift dominating pop. It’s extremely catchy and groovy. The reference to William Shakespeare’s character Ophelia in the tragic play “Hamlet” is a great addition.
Swift is extremely skilled in using literary references but changing the ending of the story like in the global hit “Love Story,” which was inspired by Shakespeare’s tragedy “Romeo and Juliet”. It’s the lead single for a reason.
The third track “Opalite” is a huge standout. It’s about Swift’s love life struggles and how she’s had to go through several heartbreaks before finding her happy ending. A round of applause for Travis Kelce for picking our girl up off the ground. He brought her shine back, and it’s crystal clear. This song is a great lesson of dusting yourself off after being knocked down. The bridge on this song makes me want to get up and dance. The energy is simply undeniable.
Where the album fell short
Even though her return to pop is refreshing, some lyrics are lackluster. Songs like “Father Figure” and “CANCELLED!” don’t resonate with Swift’s signature storytelling style. The general public and fans have become accustomed to her heartbreaking lyricism and storytelling abilities; however, the lyrics on these tracks feel cringe and out of touch.
Overall, though, we are thrilled that Swift is no longer heartbroken. This album is a lot more fun and carefree, reflecting her newfound happiness.
On her fiance’s podcast “New Heights” Swift stated, “This is the album I’ve been wanting to make for a very long time.”
Let us know if you agree with these takes, and let us know yours in the comments below!
