Taylor Swift is no stranger to online criticism from the media. Earlier today I saw an article from Newsweek filled with misogynistic views downplaying the dedication Taylor Swift not only has for the music industry but her community of fans as well.
You can find the full article here, but let’s go over the ‘highlights’.
“When Swift endorses a product, it doesn't just sell; it thrives. A decade ago, she practically introduced Diet Coke, then an incredibly tired brand, to a new generation of consumers”. Oh no not the evil Diet Coke!
He continues to say, “At 34, Swift remains unmarried and childless, a fact that some might argue is irrelevant to her status as a role model. But, I suggest, it's crucial to consider what kind of example this sets for young girls. A role model, by definition, is someone worthy of imitation. While Swift's musical talent and business acumen are certainly admirable, even laudable, we must ask if her personal life choices are ones we want our sisters and daughters to emulate. This might sound like pearl-clutching preaching, but it's a concern rooted in sound reasoning”. Let’s think about this, shall we? Taylor is someone who overcame an ED, bullying online and in real life (let’s not forget Kayne in this), and encourages young people to educate themselves and vote.
I think those are things all people should be emulating. Putting yourself first when you have hit rock bottom and returning better than ever? Staying educated on things going on in our country, especially during an election year, and just being a good person is bad? Personally, this sounds like attributes you’d want your children to have regardless of gender.
Now they are just making it easy. “This revolving door of relationships may reflect the normal dating experiences of many young women in today's world, but it also raises questions about stability, commitment, and even love itself”.
As with any human relationship, there are so many factors as to why things do not last. Taylor has used her songwriting as a powerful tool, and some don’t like their dirty laundry aired. Maybe not be a horrible person and the detrimental truth won’t come out.
To address the author’s concerns let’s break it down with some quick undeniable facts.
Stability - Taylor has stability. She is a self made billionaire.
Commitment - Taylor has been in the music industry since she was a child. Now being 34, I would say that’s an extremely high level of commitment we do not see every day.
Love - To me, she is a symbol of self-love. She could have easily stayed with any of her past partners for security emotionally. We already know she doesn’t need help financially, so I think it’s safe to say when she’s looking for a partner it was to add good to her life, not to get ahead and move up in society. Which I fully believe Travis Kelce does while loving her loudly.
Let’s also mention the elephant in the room. If Taylor Swift was a male, this article wouldn’t exist. The Good Old Boy System still reigns whether we want to admit it or not. This doesn’t mean we have to accept it and let this toxic way of thinking continue.
Here’s using the author’s own words, no editing, on why she IS a great role model for girls, women, and people all over.
“Her career, which has included numerous chart-topping songs and successful business ventures, is a testament to her work ethic and natural talent”
“Swift's talent for sparking conversations, driving engagement, and raking in profits is commendable”.
Not only has she catapulted herself into success, but she has been putting out the message for years to not let the bully win. Yes, we aren’t all celebrities, but we all at some point in our lives have dealt with bullies. Furthermore, Taylor continues to show the public that you don’t need a man to be successful. Society for generations has beat it into our brains that “women need a husband to take care of them”.
Again I must ask, if this was a man would this author be writing the same article? I think we all know the answer to this question.
Whether you are a fan of her or not, no one can deny the hard work and dedication Taylor has put into her career in the music industry and finding ways to put back into the world. She has donated countless amounts of money while on the Eras Tour to countless staff members, food banks, and charities. She is a prime example of someone using their platform for good. This isn’t to say she hasn’t made mistakes, because yes, even Taylor Swift is human. It’s not about mistakes made prior, it’s about how you move forward.
Maybe this author needs to take a look at his insecurities instead of projecting them onto a woman he probably has never met. I won’t try to influence you, the person reading this right now. I just wanted to bring you some food for thought, so you may decide your opinion on your own.