Taylor Swift's 'Out Of The Woods' From '1989': Full Lyric Analysis

Out Of The Woods Explained

‘Out of the Woods’ is a pop-rock anthem by Taylor Swift from her fifth studio album, ‘1989.’ The song was released in 2014 and quickly became a fan favorite due to its infectious melody and emotionally charged lyrics. It has been widely speculated that ‘Out of the Woods’ is inspired by Taylor’s highly-publicized relationship with Harry Styles, a member of the British boy band One Direction. The lyrics suggest a tumultuous relationship filled with uncertainties, intense emotions, and the desire to overcome obstacles.

The song begins with Taylor questioning whether the relationship was ever stable, singing, “Looking at it now, it all seems so simple, we were lying on your couch, I remember.” This line implies a sense of nostalgia for a time when the relationship seemed idyllic and uncomplicated. However, as the song progresses, it becomes evident that they were “two paper airplanes flying” – fragile and easily torn apart by the slightest turbulence.

The chorus encapsulates the essence of the song. Taylor sings, “Are we out of the woods yet? Are we in the clear yet?” These questions signify a longing for stability and a yearning to overcome the obstacles that plagued their relationship. The repetition of these lines emphasizes Taylor’s uncertainty about their future together.

One of the most impactful lines in the song is, “Remember when you hit the brakes too soon? Twenty stitches in a hospital room.” This lyric refers to a real-life incident where Harry Styles and Taylor Swift were involved in a snowmobile accident. This event caused not only physical injuries but also emotional scars. It highlights the dangers they faced together and likely symbolizes the pain and heartbreak they experienced during their relationship.

In the bridge, Taylor sings, “Remember when we couldn’t take the heat? I walked out, I said, ‘I’m setting you free,’ but the monsters turned out to be just trees.” This line suggests that Taylor was willing to end the relationship to protect herself, but she soon realizes that the obstacles they faced were not as daunting as they initially seemed – they were merely products of their own fears and insecurities.

Many fans saw ‘Out of the Woods’ as Taylor’s way of reflecting on her relationship with Harry Styles and the challenges they encountered together. The lyrics resonate with those who have experienced turbulent relationships or who have been struggling to find stability in their own lives. Fans appreciated Taylor’s vulnerability in sharing her experiences.

While ‘Out of the Woods’ is a standalone song, it does tie into the broader narrative present throughout the ‘1989’ album. The album chronicles Taylor’s transition from country music to pop, and ‘Out of the Woods’ represents a pivotal moment of growth in her journey. It showcases Taylor’s ability to turn her personal experiences into relatable and empowering music.

Though there is no direct continuation of the narrative in other songs, ‘Style,’ also featured on the ‘1989’ album, is widely believed to be about Taylor’s relationship with Harry Styles as well. ‘Style’ explores the passionate and captivating moments of their relationship and further reinforces the emotionally charged atmosphere surrounding their time together.

In conclusion, ‘Out of the Woods’ is an emotional journey through a tumultuous relationship, likely inspired by Taylor Swift’s connection with Harry Styles. The lyrics delve into the uncertainty, fear, and longing for resolution that come with such an intense connection. Fans appreciated Taylor’s vulnerability in sharing her experiences and related to the song’s themes of overcoming obstacles and finding stability. ‘Out of the Woods’ serves as a pivotal moment in Taylor’s ‘1989’ album, marking a transition in her musical style and showcasing her growth as an artist.