This Is Me Trying: Taylor Swift Lyrics & Meaning

Hey Swifties! Let's dive deep into one of Taylor Swift's most heart-wrenching and relatable songs, "this is me trying." We're not just going to read the lyrics; we're going to dissect them, understand the emotions behind them, and explore what makes this song such a raw and honest piece of art. Plus, for all our Indonesian fans, we'll break down the terjemahan (translation) so you can feel every word in your heart.

Unpacking "this is me trying"

"This is me trying" is a standout track from Taylor Swift's Folklore album, released in 2020. Folklore marked a significant departure from her previous pop-centric sound, embracing a more indie and alternative vibe. This song, in particular, is a masterclass in vulnerability, capturing the feeling of struggling and making an effort, even when things don't go as planned. The lyrics are poetic and introspective, resonating with anyone who has ever felt like they were falling short. It's a song about trying your best, even when your best isn't good enough, and the quiet desperation that comes with it.

The beauty of "this is me trying" lies in its simplicity and relatability. The lyrics are straightforward, yet they paint a vivid picture of someone grappling with their imperfections and past mistakes. Taylor's songwriting prowess shines through as she captures the universal human experience of trying to navigate life's challenges. The song is a balm for anyone who has ever felt lost or overwhelmed, reminding us that it's okay to not always have it all together. It’s a comforting reminder that the effort itself is what truly matters.

From a lyrical standpoint, "this is me trying" is a narrative told from the perspective of someone looking back on their actions and acknowledging their struggles. The song opens with a sense of regret and self-awareness, setting the stage for a journey of introspection and vulnerability. As the song progresses, the listener is drawn into the narrator's world, experiencing their emotions and understanding their motivations. Taylor's ability to create such a strong connection with her audience is a testament to her songwriting talent. The raw honesty and vulnerability in the lyrics make the song deeply relatable, resonating with listeners on a personal level.

Deep Dive into the Lyrics

Let’s break down some key lines and understand what makes them so powerful:

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

  This opening line immediately sets the tone. The narrator admits to struggling and highlights a stark contrast between past success and current stagnation. The “shiniest wheels” symbolize potential and past achievements, while “rusting” represents decay and a loss of momentum. This metaphor encapsulates the feeling of being stuck and unable to move forward.

• "I didn't know if you'd care if I came, I have a tendency to run when things get bad"

  Here, we see vulnerability and fear of rejection. The narrator questions whether their presence even matters and acknowledges a tendency to avoid difficult situations. This line speaks to the universal human desire for acceptance and the fear of being a burden to others. The honesty in this line is what makes it so relatable. It's a recognition of our own imperfections and the ways we sometimes sabotage ourselves.

• "And it's hard to be at a party when I feel like an open wound"

  This is a striking and emotionally charged line. The narrator feels exposed and vulnerable, unable to enjoy social situations. The “open wound” metaphor vividly illustrates the pain and emotional distress they are experiencing. It's a feeling many of us can relate to – the discomfort of trying to put on a brave face when we're hurting inside. This line is a reminder that it's okay to not be okay, and that sometimes, the most courageous thing we can do is acknowledge our pain.

• "They told me all of my cages were mental, So I got wasted like all my potential"

  This line is particularly poignant. It suggests that the narrator's limitations are self-imposed, yet they succumb to self-destructive behavior. The phrase "wasted like all my potential" is a powerful and heartbreaking admission of squandered opportunities and unrealized dreams. It's a reflection on the ways we sometimes hold ourselves back and the regret that comes with it.

• "And I would've loved to keep my shoes on, In the ballroom of my mind"

  This lyric evokes a sense of longing and missed opportunities. The “ballroom of my mind” represents a place of idealized dreams and aspirations, while the desire to keep their “shoes on” suggests a reluctance to fully engage with reality. It's a wistful reflection on the path not taken and the desire to hold onto the innocence of youth.

• "This is me trying"

  This repeated refrain is the heart of the song. It's a simple yet powerful statement of effort and intention. Despite the struggles and setbacks, the narrator is still trying. It's a reminder that even when we feel like we're failing, the act of trying is itself a form of progress. This line is a source of comfort and encouragement, reminding us that we're not alone in our struggles.

"this is me trying" Terjemahan (Translation)

For our Indonesian Swifties, let's break down the terjemahan (translation) of some key lines to fully appreciate the depth of the song:

• "I've been having a hard time adjusting, I had the shiniest wheels, now they're rusting" Terjemahan: "Aku kesulitan menyesuaikan diri, dulu aku punya roda paling bersinar, sekarang berkarat."

• "I didn't know if you'd care if I came, I have a tendency to run when things get bad" Terjemahan: "Aku tidak tahu apakah kamu peduli jika aku datang, aku cenderung melarikan diri saat keadaan memburuk."

• "And it's hard to be at a party when I feel like an open wound" Terjemahan: "Dan sulit berada di pesta saat aku merasa seperti luka terbuka."

• "They told me all of my cages were mental, So I got wasted like all my potential" Terjemahan: "Mereka bilang semua kurunganku ada di pikiran, jadi aku menyia-nyiakan semua potensiku."

• "And I would've loved to keep my shoes on, In the ballroom of my mind" Terjemahan: "Dan aku ingin tetap memakai sepatuku, di ballroom pikiranku."

• "This is me trying" Terjemahan: "Inilah aku berusaha."

Understanding the terjemahan allows Indonesian listeners to connect even more deeply with the song's emotional core. The nuances of the language bring a fresh perspective, highlighting the vulnerability and honesty that make "this is me trying" so special. The universality of the struggle to keep going, to keep trying, is beautifully captured in both English and Indonesian.

Why "this is me trying" Resonates

So, why does this song hit so hard? It's because "this is me trying" is brutally honest. It's a song about imperfection, struggle, and the simple act of trying. We all have moments when we feel like we're not good enough, when we're overwhelmed by our mistakes and shortcomings. This song acknowledges those feelings and validates them.

Taylor Swift has a unique gift for capturing the human experience in her music, and "this is me trying" is a prime example of that. The song's relatability lies in its honesty. It doesn't sugarcoat the struggles of life; instead, it confronts them head-on. The lyrics are raw and vulnerable, allowing listeners to see themselves in the narrator's story. This sense of connection is what makes the song so powerful and comforting.

The song is also a reminder that effort matters. Even when we don't succeed, the act of trying is still meaningful. It shows resilience, determination, and a willingness to keep going. In a world that often values success and perfection, "this is me trying" offers a refreshing perspective, celebrating the simple act of showing up and giving it our best shot. It's a message of hope and encouragement, reminding us that we're all works in progress.

Ultimately, "this is me trying" is a song about self-acceptance. It's about acknowledging our imperfections and forgiving ourselves for our mistakes. It's about recognizing that we're all just doing our best, and that's okay. The song's message is one of compassion and understanding, reminding us to be kind to ourselves and others. In a world that can be harsh and judgmental, this song offers a gentle reminder of our shared humanity. It's a reminder that we're all in this together, and that we're all just trying to navigate the complexities of life.

Final Thoughts

"This is me trying" is more than just a song; it's an anthem for anyone who's ever felt like they were falling short. It’s a reminder that the effort, the trying, is what truly counts. So next time you're feeling down, put on this song, embrace the vulnerability, and remember that you're not alone. And for our Indonesian friends, really dive into that terjemahan to feel every single nuance. Keep trying, Swifties! You've got this!