Decoding Taylor Swift's 'This Is Me Trying': Meaning & Analysis

Nov 8, 2025 by Admin 64 views

Hey Swifties! Let's dive deep into one of Taylor Swift's most introspective and emotionally resonant songs, "this is me trying." Released as part of her surprise album folklore in 2020, this track offers a raw and vulnerable glimpse into the struggles of feeling inadequate and the persistent effort to overcome personal challenges. In this article, we're going to break down the lyrics, explore the themes, and understand why this song resonates so deeply with listeners. So, grab your headphones, maybe a box of tissues, and let's get started!

What is "this is me trying" About?

At its core, "this is me trying" is about the feeling of not quite measuring up and the exhausting effort of simply trying to do better. It's an anthem for anyone who has ever felt like they're constantly falling short, despite their best intentions. Taylor paints a picture of someone grappling with past mistakes, battling inner demons, and desperately seeking redemption. The beauty of this song lies in its honesty and relatability. It doesn't offer easy answers or a neatly tied-up resolution; instead, it acknowledges the messy, ongoing process of self-improvement. This is a song about empathy, about understanding that everyone faces their own battles and that sometimes, just showing up and trying is the bravest thing you can do.

Lyrical Breakdown and Themes

Let's dissect some of the key lyrics and themes that make "this is me trying" such a poignant piece.

The Opening Verse: The song opens with a sense of regret and missed opportunities:

I've been having a hard time adjusting, I had the shiniest wheels, now they're rusting

Here, Taylor introduces the idea of lost potential. The "shiniest wheels" symbolize a time when things felt effortless and full of promise, but now, they're deteriorating, suggesting a decline or stagnation. This sets the tone for the entire song, highlighting the struggle to regain momentum and purpose.
The Chorus: The chorus is the heart of the song, a simple yet powerful declaration:

And maybe I don't know what to do, but I know me trying

This line encapsulates the central theme of the song. It's an acknowledgment of uncertainty and a lack of direction, but it's also a testament to the unwavering commitment to keep trying. It's a recognition that even when you don't have all the answers, the act of trying itself is valuable and meaningful. For me and you this is a message of hope in the midst of chaos.
Specific Instances of Trying: The verses provide specific examples of the narrator's attempts to make things right:

I thought that it would kill me, but it didn't. I'm only getting older, too I've been talking to the water tower, saying, "I should not be left to my own devices"

These lines illustrate the narrator's flawed attempts at coping and self-improvement. Talking to a water tower is a quirky, almost humorous image, but it underscores the feeling of isolation and the desperate need for guidance. These are the moments that make you think and connect.
The Bridge: The bridge is a turning point in the song, where the narrator reflects on past mistakes and their impact on relationships:

They told me all of my cages were mental, so I got wasted trying to be softer

This lyric delves into the idea of self-imposed limitations and the struggle to break free from them. The narrator acknowledges that their own mindset has been a barrier to growth and connection. The line "so I got wasted trying to be softer" is particularly striking, as it reveals the self-destructive ways in which the narrator has attempted to change and become more palatable to others.

Why "this is me trying" Resonates

So, why does "this is me trying" hit so hard? Why do so many of us connect with this song on such a deep level? I believe it's because of its raw honesty and vulnerability.

Relatability: Let's be real, guys, we've all been there. We've all felt like we're not good enough, like we're constantly screwing up. This song gives voice to those feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt, reminding us that we're not alone in our struggles.
Empathy: The song fosters empathy, both for ourselves and for others. It encourages us to be kinder to ourselves when we make mistakes and to recognize that everyone is fighting their own battles. It's a reminder that sometimes, just showing up and trying is an act of courage.
Hope: Despite its melancholic tone, "this is me trying" ultimately offers a glimmer of hope. It suggests that even in the face of failure and uncertainty, the act of trying itself is meaningful and worthwhile. It's a reminder that progress is not always linear and that setbacks are a natural part of the journey.

Connections to folklore and Taylor's Evolution

"this is me trying" is a perfect fit within the folklore album, which marked a significant departure from Taylor's previous work. Here’s how:

Thematic Consistency: folklore is characterized by its introspective and narrative-driven songwriting. Many of the songs on the album explore themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, often from the perspectives of fictional characters. "this is me trying" fits seamlessly into this world, offering a raw and personal reflection on the human experience.
Musical Style: The album features a more subdued and acoustic sound than Taylor's earlier pop-focused releases. The stripped-down instrumentation and intimate vocals of "this is me trying" enhance the emotional impact of the lyrics, creating a sense of vulnerability and authenticity.
Evolution as a Songwriter: folklore marked a turning point in Taylor's career, showcasing her growth as a songwriter and her willingness to experiment with different styles and themes. "this is me trying" is a prime example of this evolution, demonstrating her ability to craft deeply personal and emotionally resonant songs that connect with listeners on a profound level. It's about growing up, dealing with pressure, and trying to find your way.

Personal Reflections and Interpretations

For me, "this is me trying" is a reminder that it's okay to not have all the answers. It's a permission slip to be imperfect and to acknowledge that progress is not always linear. It's a song I turn to when I'm feeling overwhelmed or discouraged, and it always manages to lift my spirits and remind me that I'm not alone in my struggles. The first time I heard it, it felt like a warm hug. And the best part? It’s relatable, which is why it stays on repeat.

How to Apply the Song's Message to Your Life

So, how can you take the message of "this is me trying" and apply it to your own life? Here are a few suggestions:

Be Kind to Yourself: Cut yourself some slack! We all make mistakes, and it's important to remember that you're doing the best you can. Practice self-compassion and treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer a friend.
Focus on the Effort, Not Just the Outcome: Celebrate your efforts, regardless of the outcome. Acknowledge the work you're putting in and recognize that even small steps forward are still progress.
Embrace Imperfection: Stop striving for perfection and embrace your flaws. Imperfection is what makes us human, and it's okay to not have all the answers.
Seek Support: Don't be afraid to reach out for help when you need it. Talk to a friend, family member, or therapist about your struggles. Remember, you're not alone.

In conclusion, "this is me trying" is more than just a song; it's an anthem for anyone who has ever felt like they're not good enough. It's a reminder that the act of trying itself is valuable and that even in the face of uncertainty and failure, there is always hope. So, the next time you're feeling down, put on this song, and remember that you're not alone in your struggles.

Keep trying, Swifties! You've got this!