Transcending the Power of Language: A Metadiscourse Analysis of Selected Song of Taylor Swift
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.14456/bej.2025.2Keywords:
metadiscourse analysis, Taylor Swift, personal markers, text inspectorAbstract
This study qualitatively explores the use of metadiscourse in Taylor Swift’s songwriting using a descriptive research approach. The primary objective is to examine how metadiscourse markers contribute to the narrative structure and emotional depth of her lyrics. Using the advanced text analysis tool Text Inspector, six songs—"Enchanted," "Mr. Perfectly Fine," "My Tears Ricochet," "Sparks Fly," "Electric Touch," and "Fifteen"—were analyzed to identify and interpret various metadiscourse elements. The results indicate that personal markers were the most frequently used metadiscourse type across the selected songs. "My Tears Ricochet" ranked the highest, containing four types (5.97%), followed by "Mr. Perfectly Fine" (4 types, 4.88%), "Electric Touch" (5 types, 3.94%), "Enchanted" (3 types, 3.95%), and "Sparks Fly" (3 types, 2.86%). "Fifteen" stood out due to its notable use of sequencing markers, which accounted for 4.23% of its textual markers. These findings highlight Taylor Swift’s distinct songwriting style, particularly her strategic use of personal markers to establish emotional connections with her listeners. Her lyrics provide an introspective and expressive lens into her personal experiences, reinforcing the importance of metadiscourse in lyrical storytelling. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of how linguistic markers enhance musical narratives. Future research is recommended to explore metadiscourse in the works of other artists to compare linguistic styles and their effects on audience engagement.
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