In fall 2024, Baylor University will offer a new English course titled “Lit (Taylor’s Version)” that will explore the music of Taylor Swift in conjunction with literary greats like William Wordsworth, Virginia Woolf, and Oscar Wilde. The course, led by Dr. Sebastian Langdell and Dr. Ginger Hanchey, aims to analyze Swift’s lyrical themes alongside works by various authors, highlighting Swift’s ability to craft metaphors and the progression of women’s representation in the arts. By studying Swift’s discography as a literary work, the course seeks to broaden the understanding of art to include pop music and engage students in critical analysis and discussion.
Taylor Swift: The Literary Connection
In fall 2024, Baylor University is set to offer an intriguing new course that combines the music of the iconic pop star Taylor Swift with the works of literary greats such as William Wordsworth, Virginia Woolf, and Oscar Wilde. Dubbed “Lit (Taylor’s Version),” the course is the brainchild of Dr. Sebastian Langdell and Dr. Ginger Hanchey, both medievalists and dedicated Swifties.
Swift’s Influence on Literature
The idea of aligning Taylor Swift with the literary canon may seem unconventional at first, but upon closer examination, the parallels between Swift’s music and the works of iconic poets become apparent. Langdell points out the overt references to literary figures in Swift’s songs, such as her nod to Wordsworth in “the lakes” and the themes reminiscent of Shakespeare and Fitzgerald in tracks like “Love Story” and “This Is Why We Can’t Have Nice Things.”
Swift’s deep-rooted interest in literature is evident in her honorary Ph.D. in literature from NYU and her upcoming album titled “The Tortured Poets Department,” drawing parallels to the classic “The Dead Poets Society.” Her ability to craft metaphors and narratives not only sets her apart as a songwriter but also empowers her female audience by validating their emotions and experiences as significant and worthy of artistic expression.
Exploring Gender and Artistic Expression
One of the key aspects of the course will delve into the gender dynamics in Swift’s music and how she challenges societal norms and expectations through her artistry. Hanchey emphasizes the importance of discussing how gender and societal perceptions influence our interpretation of art, especially in the context of Swift’s work, which often touches on themes of femininity, relationships, and personal identity.
The evolution of women’s representation in the arts, as depicted by Swift in her music, reflects a broader shift towards acknowledging and celebrating female experiences in literature and music. By juxtaposing Swift’s lyrical themes with works by authors like Virginia Woolf, Rita Dove, and Emily Dickinson, students will analyze and appreciate the diverse narratives that contribute to the rich tapestry of literary expression.
Reimagining Art and Music
The course aims to broaden the traditional definition of art by integrating pop music, specifically Swift’s discography, into the realm of literary analysis. By treating musicians as poets and recognizing the artistic merit in popular culture, the professors hope to spark engaging discussions on the nature of art and its impact on society.
As Hanchey aptly puts it, the goal is to explore what constitutes art and how different forms of creative expression, including music, can resonate with audiences on a profound level. By inviting students from all majors to participate in the course, Baylor University seeks to democratize the study of literature and foster a deeper appreciation for the diverse forms of artistic expression that shape our cultural landscape.
“Lit (Taylor’s Version)” offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of music, literature, and gender dynamics through the lens of Taylor Swift’s discography. By bridging the gap between pop culture and academia, the course invites students to engage critically with the themes and narratives present in Swift’s music while connecting them to the broader tradition of literary greats. So, get ready to dive into the world of Taylor Swift Baylor Version and discover the hidden depths of artistry that transcend genres and generations.
