“You’re On Your Own, Kid”

You’re On Your Own Kid – 10/10

Swift’s fifth tracks are notorious for being her most emotional and “You’re On Your Own Kid” is no exception. With Bleachers’ lead vocalist Jack Antonoff being the main collaborator on this album, it is no surprise that the whole album’s production feels like a Bleachers song, but this track in particular is the most reminiscent of their music. Lyrically, the song seems to follow Swift’s growth throughout her career. In the chorus, she mentions the change from “sprinkler splashes” to “fireplace ashes” which seems to reference the changing of seasons. This metaphor follows spring, the beginning of her career to summer, the honeymoon and breakout phase of her career to fall. The shine of her newness falling like autumn leaves to winter, the stabilization and critique of her career. Swift has been in the spotlight since she was sixteen years old, and she explores finding herself in this spotlight with the critique of everyone around her and the increasing pressure from her fans in this song. She describes losing herself, taking the money, looking around in a blood-soaked gown, and giving her blood, sweat and tears for the career she has now. It is an honest and heartbreaking look into Swift’s personal mental state throughout her career and her journey of healing. This track five is one of the most emotional and all-encompassing track fives she has ever written.