Meaning of Every little bump in the road, I tried to swerve

In Taylor Swift's song "Breathe," the lyrics touch on the complexities of relationships and the challenges of moving on. The line, "Every little bump in the road, I tried to swerve," artistically explores themes of resilience, determination, and the unexpected obstacles that arise when trying to navigate through the aftermath of a breakup.At first glance, this line may seem like a simple statement about trying to avoid minor inconveniences. However, when analyzed deeper, it becomes evident that it metaphorically represents the protagonist's efforts to shield themselves from the emotional turmoil caused by the end of a relationship. Each "bump in the road" symbolizes a potential trigger or reminder of the past, and the act of "swerving" signifies the attempts to avoid confronting those emotional hurdles.One theme that emerges from this line is the struggle to maintain control. The protagonist desperately wants to regain a sense of control over their emotions and their life without their ex-partner. By attempting to swerve around the bumps in the road, they are trying to assert their independence and avoid being consumed by the pain and memories that come with the end of a relationship.Additionally, the line suggests the theme of self-preservation. The protagonist understands that moving on requires them to acknowledge and process their emotions, but it also necessitates protecting themselves from potential emotional harm. They recognize that immersing themselves in the pain and reliving every moment of the relationship will only bring them down further, hindering their progress towards healing.Moreover, the line conveys the idea of adaptation. In trying to swerve past the bumps, the protagonist demonstrates their resilience and ability to adapt to a new reality without their former partner. It highlights the determination to find alternate paths and coping mechanisms, even when faced with unexpected challenges along the way.Furthermore, the line touches on the theme of recognizing and accepting the inevitability of change. Relationships evolve, and sometimes they come to an end, leaving both parties changed in the process. The line suggests that the protagonist understands that both individuals played a role in the breakup, acknowledging that people change their minds and circumstances shift over time. It encapsulates the bittersweet realization that staying together may not have been feasible, even though it doesn't diminish the pain of separation.Overall, the line, "Every little bump in the road, I tried to swerve," encapsulates various themes within the broader context of the song. It explores the struggle for control, the importance of self-preservation, the ability to adapt and navigate through obstacles, and the recognition of the inevitability of change. Through vivid imagery and clever metaphors, the line contributes to the overall theme of resilience and the journey of moving forward after the end of a relationship.