A Semantic Analysis of Taylor Swift's Songs: Leech's Seven Types of Meaning

Abstract

This study conducts a semantic analysis of Taylor Swift's song lyrics using Geoffrey Leech’s theory of the seven types of meaning: conceptual, connotative, stylistic, affective, reflective, collocative, and thematic. The research employs a descriptive qualitative approach, analyzing the lyrics of Taylor Swift's most popular songs based on Spotify records in 2024. The primary objective is to identify and elucidate the different types of meaning embedded within the lyrics and understand how these meanings contribute to the overall emotional and thematic expression of the songs. The findings reveal that affective meaning is the most dominant type in Swift’s songs, reflecting her emphasis on personal emotion and expression. For instance, in the song "Fortnight," affective meaning constitutes 25% of the analyzed lyrics, highlighting the deep personal feelings conveyed. The study concludes that Taylor Swift’s lyrics are characterized by a rich semantic texture, where emotional and conceptual meanings interplay to create a profound connection with listeners. These insights not only enhance the appreciation of Swift's lyrical artistry but also contribute to the broader understanding of how contemporary song lyrics function as a medium for complex emotional and thematic communication.