Taylor

Jack Johnson's song "Taylor" paints a poignant picture of a young woman named Taylor, who once had dreams and aspirations but finds herself trapped in a life far from what she envisioned. The lyrics describe Taylor as a 'good girl' who never wanted to be late and had ideas in her brain, suggesting she had potential and ambitions. However, circumstances have led her to work the night shift, handing out parking tickets, and eventually, to a more precarious life on the streets. The song hints at a sense of regret and missed opportunities, as Taylor wishes she had heeded the advice given to her. The repeated phrase 'Poor Taylor' underscores the sympathy and sadness for her situation.

The song also introduces another character, Peter Patrick, who seems to be in a similar state of disillusionment. Peter is described as someone who 'pitter patters on the window' but is not let in, symbolizing his exclusion and struggles. He clings to the hope that singing on Sunday will save his soul, but the reality of his situation is bleak, as indicated by the imagery of his brake lights being on, suggesting he is stuck and unable to move forward. Both characters are depicted as wandering around, unaffected by the harshness of their reality, and pretending to be somewhere far away, highlighting their desire to escape their current lives.

The song's narrative is rich with metaphors and cultural references. The 'tough enchilada filled up with nada' and 'limber chicken' are vivid images that convey the emptiness and exploitation Taylor experiences. The man with 'money in his pocket flying in his rocket' represents the fleeting and superficial nature of the relationships she encounters. Ultimately, the song ends on a note of hope, with the line 'If Taylor finds a better world, then Taylor's gonna run away,' suggesting that despite her hardships, there is still a glimmer of hope for a better future.