A Song you will Remember "All Too Well"

It is understandable how songs get boring and repetitive after a few minutes of playing, but when it comes to Taylor Swift’s recently released song “All Too Well,” fans are left wishing that it could extend past its whole ten minutes and 13 seconds of impeccability. The song, full of a history that is no doubt research-worthy, is not only composed of an intricate and well-told story, but it also has a delivery so right, that it is no surprise that the song reached instant fame.

Swift released her second re-recorded album, Red (Taylor’s Version), on November 12th, 2021. Included in the album was both the re-recorded original five minute version of “All Too Well,” (which has been a fan-favorite since its first release in Red in 2012) as well as the new ten minute version of the song. One week after being released, the ten minute song already had 54.4 million streams and broke records for the longest song ever to be number one on Billboard Hot 100.

The highlight of the song and a reason behind its success derives from the fact that Swift has mastered the art of story-telling. The song is incredibly detailed, recounting memories that tell a heartbreaking story of a past relationship that Swift seems to remember “all too well.” The way that a picture is painted by the lyrics is what makes such a long song truly worth sticking around for. Swift, having a special way with words, makes listeners feel like they are actually in the story with her detailed descriptions of the setting and her additions of various literary allusions, making it almost impossible for listeners to be bored. Rumors that Swift wrote the song about ex-boyfriend Jake Gyllenhaal sparked widespread social-media attention and brought even more popularity to the song, adding just another layer to the story.

Telling a story that captivates listeners is itself a talent. Swift doesn’t stop there though - she goes one step further to tip the scales and send the song to the billboard with her vocal talent - her delivery is a driving force behind its sensationality. She has a magical way of presenting the song that allows her voice and persona to remain calm and light throughout, while still capturing all of the anger and emotion that it is built on. And while her original song in 2012 had a great delivery too, there is no doubt that over the nine years between the releases, her vocals matured to a point of flawlessness like no other.

“All Too Well (Ten Minute Version)” may very possibly be Taylor Swift’s magnum opus - with this release, she has once again reminded fans of her one-of-a-kind talent.