August By Taylor Swift: The Story Behind The Song

by Jhon Lennon 50 views

Hey Swifties! Let's dive deep into the emotional and lyrical wonderland that is "august" by Taylor Swift. This song, a standout track from her "folklore" album, isn't just a tune; it's a whole mood. We're going to break down what makes this song so special, exploring its themes, storytelling, and the overall vibe that makes it a fan favorite. So, grab your headphones, maybe a cup of tea, and let's get started!

What is "august" about?

At its heart, "august" tells the story of a summer fling from the perspective of Augustine, the 'other woman' in the love triangle that forms the core narrative of "folklore." Now, Taylor being Taylor, this isn't just a straightforward tale of summer romance. It's dripping with longing, nostalgia, and the bittersweet realization that what felt so real in the heat of the summer sun was never destined to last. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of secret meetings, whispered promises, and the quiet desperation of someone who knows they're second best. Think stolen moments behind the mall, the thrill of sneaking around, and the crushing weight of knowing it's all temporary.

The beauty of "august" lies in its vulnerability. Augustine isn't portrayed as a villain; she's a young woman caught up in the moment, genuinely believing in the possibility of something more. She's not just a plot device; she's a character with her own hopes and dreams, even if those dreams are tied to a relationship that's ultimately doomed. This empathy is what makes the song so relatable, even if we haven't all been in Augustine's exact shoes. We've all experienced that intense summer crush, the feeling of being completely consumed by someone, and the inevitable heartbreak when reality sets in. Taylor captures this universal experience with her signature lyrical prowess, making "august" a timeless tale of summer love and loss.

Key Themes in "august"

  • Nostalgia: The entire song is drenched in a sense of longing for the past, for a time when everything felt simpler and more exciting. Augustine is constantly looking back at those summer days, replaying them in her mind and wishing she could relive them.
  • Infatuation: The song perfectly captures the intoxicating feeling of being completely infatuated with someone, even when you know it's not the right thing. Augustine is blinded by her feelings for James, unable to see the bigger picture or the consequences of her actions.
  • Unrequited Love: This is perhaps the most prominent theme in "august." Augustine is painfully aware that James will never truly be hers, and she's forced to grapple with the reality that their summer romance was just a fleeting moment in his life.
  • The Pain of Being Second Best: Augustine's perspective offers a raw and honest look at the pain of being the 'other woman.' She's constantly comparing herself to James's girlfriend, wondering what she lacks and why she's not enough.

Diving Deeper: Lyrical Analysis

Let's break down some key lyrics and unpack their meaning:

  • "Salt air, and the rust on your door / I never needed anything more": This opening paints a vivid sensory picture of Augustine's memories. The "salt air" evokes the beach, a classic symbol of summer romance, while the "rust on your door" suggests a sense of imperfection and decay, hinting at the relationship's eventual demise. Despite these flaws, Augustine claims she "never needed anything more," highlighting the intensity of her feelings.
  • "Meet me behind the mall": This line speaks volumes about the clandestine nature of their relationship. Meeting "behind the mall" suggests secrecy and a sense of shame, as they are forced to hide their affair from the world. It also hints at the immaturity of their romance, taking place in a typical teenage hangout spot.
  • "August slipped away like a bottle of wine / 'Cause it was never mine": This powerful metaphor encapsulates the fleeting nature of their summer romance. "August slipped away like a bottle of wine" suggests that the time passed quickly and effortlessly, like savoring a delicious drink. However, the line "'Cause it was never mine" drives home the heartbreaking reality that Augustine never truly possessed James.
  • "Will you call when you're back at school? / I remember thinking I had you": These lines reveal Augustine's naivetĂ© and her desperate hope for a future with James. She clings to the possibility that he will call her when he returns to school, a sign that their connection was more than just a summer fling. However, the line "I remember thinking I had you" implies that this hope was ultimately unfounded.

"august" in the Context of "folklore"

"august" is a crucial piece of the "folklore" puzzle. As mentioned earlier, it's part of a love triangle that also includes the songs "cardigan" (sung from Betty's perspective, James' girlfriend) and "betty" (sung from James' perspective). This interconnected storytelling is one of the things that makes "folklore" so compelling.

The Love Triangle

  • "cardigan": We see Betty's pain and confusion as she tries to understand James's infidelity. She's heartbroken and lost, trying to piece together what went wrong.
  • "august": We get Augustine's side of the story, her perspective on the affair, and her feelings of longing and regret.
  • "betty": James returns and apologizes to Betty, hoping for forgiveness. He acknowledges his mistakes and tries to win her back.

By presenting the story from three different perspectives, Taylor creates a nuanced and complex portrayal of love, betrayal, and forgiveness. "august" is essential because it provides insight into Augustine's motivations and emotions, making her a sympathetic character rather than just a villain.

Why "august" Resonates with Fans

So, why does "august" continue to resonate with so many listeners? There are several reasons:

  • Relatability: As mentioned before, the themes of nostalgia, infatuation, and unrequited love are universal. Many people have experienced the intense emotions of a summer crush or the pain of unrequited love, making "august" a highly relatable song.
  • Storytelling: Taylor's ability to create vivid and compelling characters is on full display in "august." Augustine is a fully realized character with her own hopes, dreams, and flaws, making her someone we can empathize with.
  • Lyrical Prowess: The lyrics in "august" are simply stunning. Taylor's use of imagery, metaphor, and sensory details creates a rich and immersive listening experience.
  • Vulnerability: The song is incredibly vulnerable, with Augustine laying bare her emotions and insecurities. This honesty is what makes the song so powerful and moving.

In conclusion, "august" is more than just a song; it's a story, a feeling, and a memory. It's a testament to Taylor Swift's incredible talent as a songwriter and storyteller, and it's a song that will continue to resonate with listeners for years to come. Whether you've experienced a summer romance firsthand or simply appreciate a well-crafted song, "august" is a must-listen. So, crank up the volume and let yourself get swept away by the magic of "folklore."

Let me know in the comments what your favorite lyric from "august" is! I'm always curious to hear what resonates with you guys. Thanks for reading, and happy listening!