Dear John (Taylor's Ver.) Lyrics – Taylor Swift

[Chorus]
The chorus captures the essence of the song's message. Swift addresses John directly, expressing her realization of the situation now that he is gone. She questions whether she was too young to be involved with someone who caused her so much pain. The image of the girl in the dress crying on her way home suggests the depth of her emotional turmoil and vulnerability. She ends the chorus with the line "I shoulda known," indicating regret and a realization that she should have seen the warning signs....Read More

[Verse 2]
The second verse explores the potential causes of the failed relationship. Swift contemplates whether her own blind optimism and willingness to see the best in people played a role. She also suggests that John had a sick need to both give love and take it away, implying a pattern of emotional manipulation. Swift expresses a fear of being added to John's list of traitors who didn't understand him, highlighting a recurring theme of his shifting allegiances. She mentions the advice she received to run away from the relationship but admits she ignored it.

[Bridge]
In the bridge, Swift characterizes John as an expert at apologies and blurring lines, indicating his ability to manipulate and control the narrative of their relationship. She references the other girls he has been involved with, describing them as having tired, lifeless eyes because he burned them out emotionally. However, Swift declares that she took away his power to hurt her by taking away the matches before the fire could consume her. The metaphorical image of shining like fireworks over his sad, empty town implies her newfound strength and resilience.

[Chorus]
The final chorus echoes the previous ones, emphasizing Swift's realization that John's treatment of her was wrong. She questions whether she was too young to be subjected to his dark and twisted games, highlighting the imbalance of power and her vulnerability. Swift adds that she wrote him a song, underscoring her need for closure and her way of expressing her feelings.

[Outro]
The outro reinforces the sentiment of the chorus. Swift asserts that John should have known that she was too young to endure the pain he inflicted on her. The repetition of the line "You shoulda known" emphasizes her belief that he should have been aware of the consequences of his actions.

Overall, "Dear John (Taylor's Version)" portrays the aftermath of a toxic and manipulative relationship. It reflects on Swift's emotions, regrets, and the lessons she learned from the experience. The song showcases her growth, resilience, and determination to move forward. ...Read Less