Leiden University Student Repository

Slaats, Lennie (2025)

“It’s Me, Hi, I’m the Problem, It’s Me”: Taylor Swift as a Fourth-Wave Confessional Poet

Master thesis | Literary Studies (MA)

Taylor Swift is a global icon. Her success is largely due to her deeply personal lyricism and relatable persona. This thesis explores Swift’s artistic evolution by analyzing her transformation from a country music artist to a global pop star. By examining her public persona and intimate lyricism, this thesis places Swift within the tradition of Confessional poetry which is characterized by its emotional vulnerability, autobiographical storytelling, and vivid imagery. Additionally, Swift pushes the boundaries of Confessional poetry by weaving feminist ideals into her lyrics. By bridging personal vulnerability with cultural commentary, Swift transforms deeply personal experiences into universal reflections that resonate with her audience. This thesis argues that Swift asserts her place as a modern Confessional poet and feminist lyricist whose work contributes to contemporary cultural and literary discourse.

confessional poetry

confessionalism

pop music

Taylor Swift

feminism

fourth-wave

Author

Slaats, Lennie

Faculty

Faculty of Humanities

Specialisation

English Literature and Culture

Supervisors

Rolfe, K.

ECTS Credits

20

Language

en