Who is “Treacherous” about?
In "Treacherous," Taylor Swift constructs a delicate narrative that, like so much of her work, weaves together strands of personal experience, literary echoes, and the collective cultural consciousness. The characters in this song—a reckless lover and an intoxicated protagonist—seem to have been drawn from a rich tapestry of influences.
We might first turn to Swift's own life. Swift, with her prolific songwriting career that started in her early teens, has always had an uncanny ability to turn her personal experiences into a universal narrative. While it's tempting to view every song through the lens of her personal life, it's important to respect her privacy. Still, Swift has publicly acknowledged that many of her songs have been inspired by her own relationships. Given that "Treacherous" is from her album "Red"—an album she described as a "heartbreak" album—it is conceivable that the song's characters might have roots in her own romantic experiences.
At the same time, it's crucial to note that art isn't always a direct mirror of the artist's life. Artists often draw on the experiences of others, or they may create entirely fictional narratives. The characters in "Treacherous," while possibly influenced by Swift's experiences, could also be fictional constructs designed to explore the universal themes of risky love and irresistible attraction.
Another rich vein of influence could be drawn from the broader pool of pop culture. "Treacherous" taps into a narrative that has become a popular trope in films, TV shows, and music—the allure of a dangerous love affair. Think of Sandy and Danny in "Grease," Rose and Jack in "Titanic," or Bella and Edward in "Twilight." The reckless lover in "Treacherous" bears echoes of these characters—an embodiment of danger, excitement, and the irresistible pull of the forbidden.
Swift's love for literature is well-known, and it wouldn't be far-fetched to see literary influences in the characters of "Treacherous." They bear a striking resemblance to characters from classical literature who are drawn into dangerous love affairs despite their better judgment. Swift's protagonist might remind us of Catherine in Emily Bronte's "Wuthering Heights," hopelessly drawn to the reckless Heathcliff despite recognizing the danger. Or consider the star-crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet, who ignore the hazardous feud between their families for their irresistible love. These timeless narratives of treacherous love continue to resonate and influence contemporary songwriters like Swift.
The song may also draw from a broader historical perspective, encapsulating the spirit of youthful rebellion that characterizes many periods of cultural or societal shift. Consider the Roaring Twenties, the rebellious sixties, or the grunge era of the nineties. Each of these periods had a spirit of reckless abandon, challenging societal norms and embracing risk in the pursuit of freedom and self-expression. The characters in "Treacherous" might embody this spirit, drawn together in their mutual desire for excitement and risk.
In conclusion, the characters of "Treacherous" are likely the product of a rich mixture of personal experience, cultural influence, and literary inspiration. They encapsulate the allure and danger of a treacherous love affair, a theme that resonates deeply with listeners because of its universal relevance and timeless appeal. As with all great art, their exact origins remain tantalizingly out of reach, leaving us to enjoy the song and draw our own conclusions.
