​the 1

Taylor Swift's song 'the 1' from her album 'Folklore' is a poignant reflection on past love and the lingering thoughts of what might have been. The song opens with a sense of personal growth and change, as Swift sings about doing 'new shit' and saying 'yes' instead of 'no.' This suggests a period of self-discovery and moving forward, yet there's a bittersweet undertone as she mentions seeing someone who resembles a past love, only to realize it's not them. The lyrics convey a sense of missed opportunities and the natural human tendency to wonder about alternative paths our lives could have taken.

The chorus of 'the 1' is filled with nostalgia and the wistful remembrance of a relationship that had potential. Swift uses the metaphor of 'Roaring twenties, tossing pennies in the pool' to evoke a time of youthful exuberance and hope, a time when anything seemed possible. The mention of 'pennies in the pool' could symbolize wishes for the future that went unfulfilled. The repeated line 'But it would've been fun, If you would've been the one' captures the essence of longing for a connection that, for whatever reason, didn't last. Swift's lyrics often explore the complexities of relationships and the emotions tied to them, and 'the 1' is no exception, providing listeners with a window into her introspective thoughts on love and loss.

In the bridge, Swift contemplates the impact of small changes in life's trajectory, pondering if a single different choice could have altered everything. This introspection is a common theme in her songwriting, where she frequently examines the nuances of her personal experiences. The song ends without a resolution, leaving the listener with a sense of acceptance that some questions will remain unanswered. 'the 1' is a testament to Swift's ability to craft songs that resonate with listeners on a deeply emotional level, as she articulates the universal experience of reflecting on past relationships and the echoes they leave behind.