I Did Something Bad

Taylor Swift's 'I Did Something Bad' from her album 'Reputation' is a powerful anthem of defiance and self-empowerment. The song delves into themes of manipulation, revenge, and the societal double standards that women often face. Swift's lyrics are a bold statement against those who have wronged her, and she uses the song to reclaim her narrative in the face of criticism.

The opening lines set the tone for the song, as Swift acknowledges her interactions with narcissists and playboys, suggesting a game of manipulation where she's always one step ahead. The chorus, 'They say I did something bad / Then why's it feel so good?' serves as a rhetorical question challenging the notion of guilt and wrongdoing. Swift is questioning the societal norms that often label women's actions as 'bad' when they take control or act out of self-interest. The repeated phrase 'it just felt so good' reinforces the idea that there is a sense of liberation and satisfaction in acting on one's own terms, even if it goes against the grain.

The bridge of the song references the historical persecution of women as witches, drawing a parallel to the modern-day metaphorical 'witch hunts' where people are quick to judge and condemn, often without just cause. Swift's use of the phrase 'light me up' is a defiant call to her detractors, showing that she is unafraid of their attempts to vilify her. The song's aggressive tone and the inclusion of darker, edgier elements in the production reflect Swift's evolution as an artist and her willingness to explore more complex and mature themes in her music.