Anti-Hero Lyrics

"Anti-Hero" will be considered one of the deepest, most introspective songs by Taylor Swift because of the many ways it includes self-critique, vulnerability, and the complex human psyche it delves deep into. Swift starts by admitting to the biggest paradox: with time, no wisdom seems to catch up. This creates an introspective tone, admitting personal imperfections and insecurities with which most people have a deep connection. The song is interwoven with a plethora of literary and pop culture references, only deepening further. For example, Swift's feeling of being surrounded by the ghosts of people she's "ghosted" resonates with a Shakespearean motif, particularly reminiscent of Richard III, who is haunted by those he has wronged. This imagery sets the background for the development of Swift's struggles with mental health and self-perception, likening her afternoons to "midnights," which could be taken as a metaphor for depression's stranglehold on her life. The use of the term "anti-hero" by Swift, in particular, is really quite thought-provoking. By and large, an anti-hero may even do good deeds in a selfish manner, hence complicating the portrayal of heroism. Swift applies this to herself, claiming that even when she attempts to do the right thing, it may not be for purely altruistic reasons, which is perhaps a reflection of her perception of how her actions are perceived by the public and the media. This song's bridge adds another layer of self-examination as Swift vividly imagines the scenario of being killed by a metaphor for inheritance, a metaphor. It suggests fear for her legacy, how she was remembered, and material wealth over personal value with and relationships. This song also speaks to the self as being the "problem." This even more epitomizes how courageous Swift is in facing her darker self. In the self-realization of one's role in one's own dramas of life, this song accepts and then matures by taking responsibility and gaining self-awareness. In fact, "Anti-Hero" is a feature that is frank throughout and uses the overall complexity to Swift's identity—creating another poignant step in her discography. Swift delivers the listener to introspection once again, only this time to face their insecurities and finally look right back in the mirror, warts and all.