In an exciting turn of events, Taylor Swift has just unveiled her latest album, The Life of a Showgirl. Among the standout tracks is the much-anticipated seventh song, “Actually Romantic,” which is rumored to be a response to Charli XCX’s track, “Sympathy is a Knife.” In “Actually Romantic,” Swift explores themes of admiration and obsession, suggesting a complex interplay between her and Charli's artistic expressions.
The relationship between Swift and Charli XCX is not without its history. Swift briefly dated Matty Healy, a member of Charli’s partner George Daniel's band, The 1975, in 2023. This connection sparked curiosity when Charli XCX released “Brat” in June 2024, particularly the track “Sympathy Is a Knife.” Many speculated that Charli’s lyrics were directed at Swift, prompting a wave of media attention.
In an August 2024 interview with New York Magazine, Charli addressed the rumors, clarifying that her song was a personal reflection on her feelings and anxieties rather than a commentary on Swift. “People are going to think what they want to think,” she stated, emphasizing the song's focus on her own internal struggles.
During the album's Official Release Party for The Life of a Showgirl, Swift hinted at the possibility of “Actually Romantic” being a direct response to Charli’s track. She described it as “sort of a love letter to someone who hates you,” expressing that she finds the attention “flattering.” Swift noted, “I don’t hate you. And I don’t think about this. But like, thank you for all the effort, honestly, that is wow. That is very, very sweet of you to think about me this much.”
In “Actually Romantic,” Swift opens with lyrics that appear to reference her breakup with Healy and Charli’s reactions: “I heard you call me ‘Boring Barbie’ when the coke’s got you brave / High-fived my ex and then said you’re glad he ghosted me.” The track takes a turn to reflect on the obsession, suggesting that while some may find it offensive, Swift interprets it as sweet.
Charli's “Sympathy is a Knife” also plays into the narrative of insecurity and rivalry within the industry. The lyrics express her discomfort around a woman connected to her boyfriend’s band, stating, “I don’t wanna share the space / I don’t wanna force a smile.” Charli’s vulnerability adds depth to the conversation, as she grapples with her feelings of self-doubt and anxiety.
In “Actually Romantic,” Swift redefines the narrative, suggesting that she finds Charli's obsession flattering. The track includes lines that playfully blur the lines between admiration and flirtation: “It sounded nasty but it feels like you’re flirting with me / I mind my business, God’s my witness that I don’t provoke it.” Swift’s take is refreshing, transforming what might be seen as a rivalry into a form of appreciation.
Despite the underlying tension, Swift has publicly praised Charli’s artistry. In the same New York Magazine feature, Swift expressed her admiration for Charli XCX’s musical talent, noting that she has always been impressed by Charli’s innovative writing and melodic sensibilities. “I’ve been blown away by Charli’s melodic sensibilities since I first heard ‘Stay Away’ in 2011,” Swift remarked, highlighting Charli’s unique contributions to the music industry.
Swift and Charli have shared the stage in the past, with memorable performances during Swift’s tours. In 2015, Charli joined Swift on stage in Toronto to perform “Boom Clap,” and she later served as an opener for Swift's Reputation Stadium Tour in 2018. This history of collaboration showcases a mutual respect for each other's artistry, underscoring that while their songs may hint at rivalry, the bond between these two talented musicians remains strong.
For those interested in diving deeper, the full lyrics of “Actually Romantic” are far from your typical diss track, blending humor and vulnerability into a captivating narrative. Listen to the song and explore its rich themes today!
