Taylor Swift Rhetorical Devices

Maddie Skidmore

Dr. Lodine

Writing 101

07 July 2023

(Taylor’s Version)

Taylor Swift is a mastermind and lyrical genius when it comes to writing songs and creating music videos to go along with them. Using rhetorical devices, Taylor Swift effectively conveys her emotions and messages in the "I Bet You Think About Me" music video. Since April 2021, Taylor Swift has been making massive waves in the music industry with (Taylor’s Version) re-recordings of her famous albums and individual songs. For more context, in June of 2019, Big Machine Label Group was sold to Ithaca Holdings, which Scooter Braun owns. Swift has re-recorded several of her albums, including Fearless, Red, and Speak Now. The song “I Bet You Think About Me” was never truly released

The song's lyrics feature a woman, Taylor, who, despite having been hurt by a previous relationship, is eager to prove to him that she is better off without him. Swift's strong vocals and emotional delivery perfectly depict the suffering and resilience of someone who had been betrayed. A somber piano melody builds the mood for the song's opening verses. Swift’s ex-lover may think he has moved on, but as he recites his vows for the wedding, the mirror suddenly flashes to Taylor, and he is visibly shaken by what he sees. She enjoys knowing she has left a lasting mark on his heart. Swift's lyrics get bolder and empowering as the song goes on. This change in voice symbolizes her quest for independence and self-discovery. The song "I Bet You Think About Me" demonstrates Taylor Swift's talent for expressing unfiltered emotions in her songs. It serves as a reminder that one can still find courage and happiness inside oneself even after experiencing heartbreak. This sentiment is a great example of pathos. The viewer can see that the woman has struggled for a long time over the past relationship with the man pictured throughout the music

In the video, Swift is shown wearing primarily monochromatic red clothing, in contrast to the wedding guests, bride and groom, and decorations, which are all white. She portrays herself as a strong, independent woman who has moved on from a past relationship. By showcasing her growth, Swift encourages viewers to embrace change and prioritize their happiness. As mentioned, all the guests start by wearing a monochromatic white outfit. Taylor Swift is the only one with any color in a stark red outfit. The red, traditionally a passion, energy, and action color, seems apt to match her actions. She is shown taking chunks from the pristine wedding cake, taking olives out of party goers drinks, and playing with the children in attendance. By doing this, she again goes against the social norms of the people around her, further showing the emotional growth and maturity that Swift is stepping towards as she moves into a new chapter of her