Taylor
Zahara
The Struggle for Self-Identity in Zahara's 'Taylor'
In Zahara's song 'Taylor,' the artist delves deep into the complexities of self-identity and the pressures of societal expectations. The lyrics open with a poignant observation: 'Ya me lo dijo Taylor, somos yonkis del cariño ajeno,' which translates to 'Taylor told me, we are junkies for others' affection.' This line sets the tone for the entire song, highlighting the dependency on external validation and the sacrifices made for the approval of strangers. Zahara paints a vivid picture of building 'castillos' or castles with the devotion of unknown individuals, only to watch them crumble like porcelain. This metaphor underscores the fragility of relying on others for self-worth.
As the song progresses, Zahara confronts the internal conflict of living up to others' expectations versus understanding one's own desires. The lines 'Si todo lo que soy es lo que esperan de mí, no sé qué es lo que quiero yo, nadie me pregunta a mí' translate to 'If all I am is what they expect of me, I don't know what I want, no one asks me.' This powerful statement reflects the artist's struggle with self-identity and the lack of personal agency in a world that constantly demands conformity. Zahara's raw honesty about her feelings of hatred and disillusionment with love further emphasizes the emotional turmoil she experiences.
The song also explores the contrasting nature of love and hate. Zahara describes love as being filled with 'metas y puertas cerradas' (goals and closed doors) and 'líneas que no deben ser cruzadas' (lines that should not be crossed). In contrast, hate is portrayed as straightforward and unencumbered by expectations. This dichotomy highlights the simplicity and immediacy of hate compared to the complexities and uncertainties of love. Through 'Taylor,' Zahara offers a candid reflection on the challenges of navigating self-identity, societal pressures, and the emotional landscape of love and hate.