ivy

Taylor Swift's song 'ivy' from her album 'evermore' is a rich tapestry of emotion and metaphor, weaving a tale of forbidden love and the complexities that come with it. The song's lyrics paint a picture of a clandestine affair, where the protagonist is already committed to someone else but finds themselves irresistibly drawn to a new love. The imagery of ivy growing over a house of stone symbolizes the pervasive and inescapable nature of this new love, suggesting that it's growing over and consuming her existing life and commitments.

The song's narrative is filled with poetic language that evokes a sense of both beauty and sorrow. Phrases like 'where the spirit meets the bones' and 'magnificently cursed' suggest a deep connection that is both spiritual and doomed. The recurring theme of coldness, seen in the 'freezing hand' and the snow, contrasts with the warmth of the 'incandescent glow' brought forth by the touch of the new lover, highlighting the conflict between the protagonist's current situation and the passion they feel. The mention of 'grieving for the living' implies a mourning for the life and love that could have been, had circumstances been different.

The song builds to a climax with the imagery of a fire and a war, indicating the destructive potential of this affair. The protagonist recognizes the chaos and conflict that their feelings could unleash, yet feels powerless to stop the spread of this emotional 'ivy.' Swift's storytelling through song is a testament to her ability to capture complex emotional landscapes, and 'ivy' serves as a poignant example of her songwriting prowess, exploring the depths of love, guilt, and the human condition.