Hello fellow Swifties, it’s been a while… but I’m making a comeback!
I started this column my first official year on The Talon and now, in my last, I’ve returned to report a happily ever after. “Miss Americana” has found her “Heart Break Prince”, and it is safe to say “Swelce” is end- game. If you dislike puns, I would stop reading now.
After two years of dating, Taylor Swift and Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce have decided to tie the knot. Announced through a joint Instagram post on Aug. 26, the engagement of America’s favorite “English and gym teacher” is arguably the biggest of the century. Or at least to me.
Growing up through Swift’s various eras of angst, heartbreak and reinvention, it is touching to see her “Love Story” resolve. Not only that, but one of my earliest articles covered the power couple’s budding romance. Who better to wrap up the saga than boyfriend lucky number 13?
After 18 years of listening to Swift, there is one thing I’ve learned: love is never lost on the ones who slip away. To all those who came before — Harry Styles, Joe Alwyn, Joe Jonas, Taylor Lautner, Matty Healy (good riddance!) — thank you for the music you inspired.
Funnily enough, Swift’s engagement was only the second most exciting thing to happen this August — already a monumental month. “The Life of a Showgirl”, Swift’s 12th album, is set to release Oct. 3. Announced days after appearing on the Aug. 13 episode of Kelce’s podcast “New Heights”, the album features an orange theme and imagery reminiscent of Cabaret, but with more sequins.
While I haven’t crazed over Swift’s last two albums — “The Tortured Poet’s Department” and “Midnights” — I must give her credit for her proficiency. Whether or not you fall into the Swiftie category yourself, there is no denying the cultural significance of her music. No matter what this next album entails, I will be excited to listen to it.
From analyzing my favorite song, “False God”, to discussing the double standard of female artists writing about their love lives, this column has brought me great joy. I hope for those reading, something has resonated with you.
I cannot pretend to know this woman whom I’ve dedicated Returning the Scarf to, nor do I intend to glorify the idea of her. That said, I can’t help but rejoice in the happiness of the artist who has taught most of what I know about teenage love.
I hope Kelce is truly the one.