Cruel Summer Lyrics
Cruel Summer Lyrics Meaning
Meaning of “Cruel Summer” Lyrics by Taylor Swift
Fever dream high in the quiet of the night / You know that I caught it
– The song begins with a vivid image of an intense, dream-like state experienced during a quiet night. This “fever dream” represents a powerful and almost surreal feeling of infatuation or love. The singer acknowledges that she has succumbed to this feeling.
Bad, bad boy / Shiny toy with a price / You know that I bought it
– Here, the singer describes the object of her affection as a “bad boy” who is tempting and alluring, like a shiny new toy. The phrase “with a price” suggests that pursuing this relationship comes with consequences or sacrifices, but she willingly accepts them.
Killing me slow, out the window / I’m always waiting for you to be waiting below
– This line portrays the emotional pain and longing the singer feels. The relationship is slowly consuming her, and she finds herself constantly hoping for the other person to be there for her, even though it’s causing her distress.
Devils roll the dice, angels roll their eyes / What doesn’t kill me makes me want you more
– The singer compares the unpredictability and risk of the relationship to a game of dice played by devils, while angels look on in disapproval. Despite the challenges and potential harm, the difficulties only intensify her desire for the person.
And it’s new, the shape of your body / It’s blue, the feeling I’ve got / And it’s ooh, whoa, oh / It’s a cruel summer
– The novelty of the physical attraction is highlighted, and the “blue” feeling represents a mix of melancholy and longing. The repeated “ooh, whoa, oh” emphasizes the emotional turbulence, and the “cruel summer” signifies a bittersweet, intense romance happening during the summer season.
It’s cool, that’s what I tell ’em / No rules in breakable heaven / But ooh, whoa oh / It’s a cruel summer / With you
– The singer tries to downplay her feelings by saying “it’s cool,” implying she is trying to appear unaffected. The phrase “no rules in breakable heaven” suggests a sense of freedom and recklessness in their relationship, even though it is fragile. The repetition of “cruel summer” underscores the duality of the relationship—both thrilling and painful.
Hang your head low / In the glow of the vending machine / I’m not dying / You say that we’ll just screw it up in these trying times / We’re not trying
– These lines convey a sense of vulnerability and intimacy. The vending machine’s glow creates a private, secluded moment. The singer reassures herself that she’s not falling apart, despite the struggles. The other person expresses doubt about their relationship’s chances, yet neither of them is making an effort to fix it.
So cut the headlights, summer’s a knife / I’m always waiting for you just to cut to the bone
– The metaphor “summer’s a knife” suggests that the season, typically associated with warmth and joy, is instead sharp and painful. The singer waits for the other person to deliver a decisive blow, indicating the ongoing tension and hurt in the relationship.
Devils roll the dice, angels roll their eyes / And if I bleed, you’ll be the last to know
– The repeated line about devils and angels reinforces the idea of risk and disapproval. The singer admits that even if she gets hurt, she won’t let the other person see her pain.
**I’m drunk in the back of the car / And I cried like a baby coming home from the bar (oh) / Said, “I’m fine,” but it wasn’t true / I don’t wanna keep secrets just to keep you**
– These lines describe a moment of emotional vulnerability and honesty. The singer admits to crying and hiding her true feelings, illustrating the struggle between maintaining the relationship and being truthful.
And I snuck in through the garden gate / Every night that summer just to seal my fate (oh) / And I screamed for whatever it’s worth / “I love you,” ain’t that the worst thing you ever heard? / He looks up grinning like a devil
– The singer sneaks into the other person’s life, despite knowing it might end badly. The act of declaring her love, despite the potential for rejection or pain, is both a brave and heartbreaking gesture. The other person’s devilish grin signifies the power dynamic and emotional turmoil in the relationship.
It’s new, the shape of your body / It’s blue, the feeling I’ve got / And it’s ooh, whoa, oh / It’s a cruel summer
– The chorus reiterates the theme of intense attraction and emotional conflict. The “blue” feeling captures the sadness and longing intertwined with the excitement of the relationship.