Taylor Swift released a new song titled “But Daddy I Love Him” on The Tortured Poets Department, seemingly recounting her brief fling with Matty Healy. The lyrics of the track suggest that Swift is addressing fan criticism, with lines such as “I’d rather burn my whole life down than listen to one more second of all this bitching and moaning.” The song appears to reference her past relationship with Healy, which lasted only a brief period in 2023. Despite the short-lived romance, fans criticized Swift for dating the British singer due to his past controversies and problematic behavior.
Throughout their relationship, Healy faced criticism for mocking Swift’s friend Ice Spice’s heritage and making inappropriate comments during a radio interview. He later apologized for his remarks, but the damage had been done. In a subsequent interview, Healy dismissed the fans’ concerns and criticized those who were hurt by his actions. Swift remained relatively quiet about her relationship with Healy and the backlash it received until the release of “But Daddy I Love Him”, where she addresses the judgmental critics and defends her choices.
In the song, Swift seems to refer to her critics as “Sara” and “Hannah”, portraying them as judgmental figures who try to control her. She also mentions her parents’ eventual approval of her relationship, indicating that they came around after the initial scandal. The lyrics reveal Swift’s defiance against those who try to hold her back and dictate her love life, asserting that she knows what she wants and is willing to fight for it. The title of the song is a nod to The Little Mermaid, where Ariel expresses her love for Prince Eric despite her father’s disapproval.
“But Daddy I Love Him” showcases Swift’s vulnerability and strength as she navigates the complexities of love and judgment from others. The song captures the emotional turmoil of a tumultuous relationship and the pressure to conform to societal expectations. Despite the challenges and criticism she faces, Swift remains true to herself and asserts her agency in matters of the heart. The track’s release on The Tortured Poets Department marks a significant moment in Swift’s career, solidifying her reputation as a powerful storyteller and artist.
