I wonder if you know I'm trying so hard not to get caught up now...
Fearless is one of my favorite Taylor Swift songs, and not just on this album. I love songs that make you feel something deeply, and often connect with the ones that lead me gently to emotions like sadness or pain. But I appreciate that this song unapologetically leads me to joy, fun, and hope. If I want to feel energized, happier, lighter, or just move into those spaces, I can put this song on and I'll be there within four minutes.
This song paints a picture for us of the setting and the emotions. It is a story to fall into. I don't know where our main characters are coming from but they are walking in a parking lot to the car. I'm not sure if the glow off the pavement comes from the sun or the street lights but either way it's freshly rained. There is something about the moment with this person where what they want is to extend an invitation to dance, right there. I can feel it while I listen. The anticipation, the excitement, the nervousness, the desire. We are 30 seconds into a song and I am catapulted back into high school where the feelings of wanting wash over you so easily.
As she moves through the song she gives us line after line that reinforces that same feeling and the ease with which it can come over you. It's not really something you are trying for or creating, rather it's this magical experience that comes to you and that you get to experience if you are brave enough to lean into it. The most brave thing you can do at this moment is to be so present in it. To give into those feelings where even if your hands are shaking you let the fear move out of you so you can experience the joy.
I'm not always brave enough in real life. Too often I have been too scared to proceed, but occasionally I have been fearless and those moments always lead to something quite extraordinary. There are moments I would love to return to, to be more brave and daring. While those times are gone, there are still plenty of opportunities to be fearless in the present and future, so for now every once in a while I'll put this song on and practice.
And I don't know how it gets better than this!
I love Taylor Swift’s music and have a deep curiosity about who it is so meaningful to so many people. If you have any thoughts about this song in particular please share it in the comments below so that me and the Swiftie community that finds this space can enjoy your insights.