Taylor Swift’s new album, The Tortured Poets Department, has sparked fan speculation about the meaning behind the songs, with some suggesting that “Guilty as Sin?” could hint at emotional cheating. The lyrics of the ninth track indicate feelings of being stuck in a failing relationship, possibly with ex Joe Alwyn, and desiring freedom. Swift reflects on the idea of possibly being involved with someone else, leading fans to speculate that the person she’s referring to could be The 1975 frontman Matty Healy.
Swift and Healy had a brief connection in 2014 before reuniting professionally in 2022 to work on Swift’s album Midnights. They were seen holding hands and kissing shortly after Swift’s breakup with Alwyn. In “Guilty as Sin?” Swift muses about the temptation of rekindling an old flame and the consequences of acting on those desires. She struggles with her emotions, locked in a battle between her longing for someone and the potential fallout from giving in to those feelings.
In the song, Swift grapples with the idea of keeping her desires hidden but ultimately gives in to the fantasy that has consumed her thoughts. She highlights the internal struggle of wanting something that feels forbidden and the tension between what she desires and what is acceptable in the eyes of others. The bridge of the song delves deeper into her internal conflict, exploring the repercussions of betraying expectations and acting on her emotions.
While Swift and Healy’s relationship may have seemed passionate, it quickly came to an end amid controversy surrounding Healy’s past remarks about Swift’s friend. This romantic entanglement echoes themes Swift has explored in her music before, touching on infidelity and the consequences of giving in to forbidden desires. In songs like “High Infidelity” and “Gorgeous,” she has hinted at the complexities of relationships and the struggles with temptation and fidelity.
Despite the speculation about the inspiration behind “Guilty as Sin?” and other tracks on The Tortured Poets Department, Swift has not confirmed the true meaning behind the songs. However, she has hinted at the personal significance of the album and how it served as a lifeline for her during a difficult period. The album’s release marked a significant moment for Swift, who celebrated its debut by reflecting on closure and healing, signaling a new chapter for the artist as she continues to explore themes of love, loss, and self-discovery in her music.
