It Ends With Us: Are Taylor Swift Songs The Perfect Soundtrack?
Hey guys! So, you know how some books just completely wreck you in the best possible way? For me, Colleen Hoover's "It Ends With Us" was one of those books. And naturally, as a massive Swiftie, my brain immediately started casting Taylor Swift songs as the soundtrack to Ryle and Lily's rollercoaster of a relationship. I know I am not the only one who thinks this way. Let's dive into why Taylor's discography feels like it was written specifically for this novel, exploring the thematic connections, lyrical parallels, and emotional resonance that make them such a compelling match.
The All Too Well Connection: Red Flags and Missed Signs
Okay, let's be real: "All Too Well" is practically the anthem for recognizing red flags in a relationship, right? The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love that's intoxicating at first but slowly unravels due to communication breakdowns and unequal power dynamics. Think about Lily in "It Ends With Us." She falls hard and fast for Ryle, blinded by his charisma and initial attentiveness. But as the story progresses, those little quirks and possessive tendencies start to raise alarm bells, much like the subtle shifts in tone and behavior described in "All Too Well".
Consider the lines, "And I was never good at telling jokes, but the punchline goes..." Doesn't that echo Lily's attempts to brush off Ryle's increasingly controlling behavior? She tries to make light of the situation, to convince herself that it's not a big deal, but deep down, she knows something is off. Taylor's raw and vulnerable delivery in "All Too Well" perfectly captures Lily's internal struggle as she grapples with the growing unease in her relationship. The song's bridge, with its desperate plea of "Just please don't go," mirrors Lily's reluctance to confront the truth about Ryle, clinging to the hope that things can go back to the way they were.
Moreover, the extended version of "All Too Well" gives an even deeper dive. It brings even more context of gaslighting and manipulation, something Lily experiences as the book continues and Ryle shows his true colors. The song's narrative arc mirrors the progression of Lily and Ryle's relationship, from the initial spark of infatuation to the painful realization that it's built on a foundation of instability. This makes “All Too Well” not just a song, but an emotional roadmap for understanding Lily's journey throughout the novel.
"The Archer" and Lily's Vulnerability
Lily Bloom is, at her core, a deeply vulnerable character. She wears her heart on her sleeve, which makes her both endearing and susceptible to getting hurt. "The Archer" encapsulates this vulnerability so perfectly. The lyrics speak of self-doubt, fear of abandonment, and the constant need for validation – all emotions that Lily grapples with throughout the novel. "I've been the archer, I've been the prey," Taylor sings, capturing the push-and-pull dynamic within Lily's relationships. She's both the one seeking love and connection and the one constantly bracing herself for impact. This is really a solid song for Lily, given her backstory, her relationship with Atlas, and Ryle.
Think about Lily's past trauma and how it shapes her present relationships. She carries the weight of her father's abusive behavior, which makes her hyper-aware of potential red flags in Ryle. At the same time, she desperately wants to believe in his goodness, to give him the benefit of the doubt. This internal conflict is beautifully illustrated in "The Archer," where Taylor sings, "Who could ever leave me, darling? But who could stay?" Lily's fear of being alone clashes with her fear of repeating the patterns of her past, leaving her in a constant state of emotional turmoil. The song's haunting melody and introspective lyrics amplify Lily's vulnerability, making it a poignant anthem for her character.
"cardigan" and the Comfort of Atlas
Okay, now we need to talk about Atlas. Seriously, is there a more patient and understanding book boyfriend out there? When Lily reconnects with Atlas, it feels like coming home after a long and difficult journey. That sense of comfort and familiarity is perfectly captured in "cardigan." The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia, of returning to a safe and familiar place after experiencing the harsh realities of the world. "And when I felt like I was an old cardigan, under someone's bed, you put me on and said I was your favorite," Taylor sings, highlighting the transformative power of Atlas's love.
Atlas sees Lily for who she truly is, flaws and all, and loves her unconditionally. He doesn't try to change her or control her; instead, he offers her a safe space to be herself. This is in stark contrast to Ryle, who, at times, tries to mold Lily into his ideal image. The warmth and security that Atlas provides are like a soothing balm to Lily's wounded heart. "Cardigan" becomes an ode to their enduring connection, a reminder that even after years of separation, their love remains a constant source of comfort and support. The song's gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics underscore the depth of their bond, making it a perfect soundtrack for their rekindled romance.
"mad woman" and the Societal Double Standards
One of the most powerful themes in "It Ends With Us" is the exploration of societal double standards when it comes to domestic abuse. Lily faces judgment and criticism from those who don't understand the complexities of her situation. This is where "mad woman" comes into play. The song is a scathing indictment of the way society silences and punishes women who speak out against abuse. "What did you think I'd say to that? Does a scorpion sting when fighting back? They say move on, but you will see, I can't," Taylor sings, capturing Lily's frustration and anger at being blamed for the abuse she experiences.
Lily is often portrayed as being "difficult" or "emotional" when she tries to assert herself in her relationship with Ryle. Her attempts to set boundaries are dismissed as being overly sensitive or dramatic. This mirrors the way women are often labeled as "crazy" or "hysterical" when they express their anger or pain. "Mad woman" gives voice to Lily's unspoken rage, validating her feelings and challenging the societal norms that perpetuate victim-blaming. The song's dark and defiant tone serves as a reminder that women have the right to be angry and to fight back against injustice. It perfectly highlights the double standards of society.
"exile" and the Pain of Miscommunication
Communication breakdowns are a major source of conflict in Lily and Ryle's relationship. They struggle to understand each other's perspectives, leading to misunderstandings and resentment. "exile," with its haunting duet between Taylor and Bon Iver, perfectly captures the pain and isolation that result from miscommunication. The lyrics depict a relationship crumbling under the weight of unspoken words and unresolved conflicts. "I think I've seen this film before, and I didn't like the ending," Taylor sings, expressing the sense of inevitability that Lily feels as her relationship with Ryle deteriorates.
Both Lily and Ryle struggle to articulate their needs and fears, leading to a cycle of misinterpretation and hurt feelings. They often talk past each other, failing to truly listen or empathize with the other's point of view. This lack of communication creates a sense of emotional distance between them, leaving them feeling isolated and alone. "Exile" becomes a soundtrack for their growing estrangement, a reminder of the devastating consequences of failing to communicate effectively. The song's melancholic melody and poignant lyrics amplify the pain of their miscommunication, making it a powerful reflection of their relationship's unraveling.
"closure" and the Hope for Healing
Despite the pain and trauma she experiences, Lily ultimately chooses to leave Ryle and create a better future for herself and her child. This act of self-preservation is a testament to her strength and resilience. "closure" embodies Lily's journey towards healing and self-discovery. The lyrics speak of moving on from a toxic relationship and finding peace in one's own company. "It's been a long time, and seeing the shape of your name still spells out pain," Taylor sings, acknowledging the lingering scars of the past while also expressing a sense of hope for the future.
Lily's decision to prioritize her own well-being is not easy, but it is ultimately the right one for her. She learns to trust her instincts and to set boundaries, refusing to allow herself to be defined by her past experiences. "Closure" becomes an anthem for her newfound independence, a celebration of her ability to overcome adversity and create a brighter future for herself and her daughter. The song's upbeat tempo and empowering lyrics underscore Lily's resilience, making it a fitting soundtrack for her journey towards healing and self-discovery.
Taylor Swift: The Unofficial Soundtrack
Ultimately, the reason Taylor Swift's songs resonate so deeply with "It Ends With Us" is because they both explore the complexities of love, loss, and the human experience. Taylor's lyrics are raw, honest, and emotionally resonant, capturing the full spectrum of emotions that Lily experiences throughout the novel. Whether it's the red flags of "All Too Well," the vulnerability of "The Archer," or the comfort of "cardigan," Taylor's discography provides a perfect soundtrack for Lily's journey. So, the next time you read "It Ends With Us," I encourage you to listen to these songs and see how they enhance your reading experience. You might just find that Taylor Swift is the unofficial soundtrack to Lily's story, and maybe even to your own.