GROUP 1

HERNANDEZ, ASHANTI CHERISH M.

PARAN, GEANDRO T.
TUBORO, IVAN D.
VELASQUEZ, JOHN CEDRIC
ANGUSTO, FRANCHESCA
CARTABIO, LYZA CAMILLE
GAPIANGAO, WEN ASHLEY
LUISTRO, BEA BIANCA M.
MOLINA, FAITH U.
PARAS, JANELLA MAE

READING AND WRITING

GRADE 11 – EDV (ASSET)
15 APRIL 2024

Love Story
Taylor Swift
We were both young when I first saw you
I close my eyes and the flashback starts
I’m standin’ there
On a balcony in summer air
See the lights, see the party, the ball gowns
See you make your way through the crowd
And say, “Hello”
Little did I know
That you were Romeo, you were throwin’ pebbles
And my daddy said, “Stay away from Juliet”
And I was cryin’ on the staircase
Beggin’ you, “Please don’t go, “ and I said
Romeo, take me somewhere we can be alone
I’ll be waiting, all there’s left to do is run
You’ll be the prince and I’ll be the princess
It’s a love story, baby, just say, “Yes”
So I sneak out to the garden to see you
We keep quiet, ‘cause we’re dead if they knew
So close your eyes
Escape this town for a little while, oh oh
‘Cause you were Romeo, I was a scarlet letter
And my daddy said, “Stay away from Juliet”
But you were everything to me
I was beggin’ you, “Please don’t go, “ and I said
Romeo, take me somewhere we can be alone
I’ll be waiting, all there’s left to do is run
You’ll be the prince and I’ll be the princess
It’s a love story, baby, just say, “Yes”
Romeo, save me, they’re tryna tell me how to feel
This love is difficult, but it’s real
Don’t be afraid, we’ll make it out of this mess
It’s a love story, baby, just say, “Yes”
Oh, oh
I got tired of waiting
Wonderin’ if you were ever comin’ around
My faith in you was fading
When I met you on the outskirts of town, and I said
Romeo, save me, I’ve been feeling so alone
I keep waiting for you, but you never come
Is this in my head? I don’t know what to think
He knelt to the ground and pulled out a ring
And said, “Marry me, Juliet
You’ll never have to be alone
I love you and that’s all I really know
I talked to your dad, go pick out a white dress
It’s a love story, baby, just say, “Yes”
Oh, oh, oh
Oh, oh, oh, oh
‘Cause we were both young when I first saw you

A Critique of “Love Story” by Taylor Swift

 Taylor Swift’s song “Love Story” and accompanying music video create a
cohesive narrative that combines classic literature, modern romance, and visual
storytelling. Swift’s song is inspired by Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, written in
1594, and reimagines the tragic story in a modern perspective. The music video
complements to the narrative by visually reflecting the song’s words and ideas.

The music video is known for its use of Elizabethan-era sets and costumes,
which effectively transports viewers into the world of Romeo and Juliet while
maintaining a modern flair. The usage of palaces, expensive costumes, and horse-
drawn carriages enhances the romantic ambiance and supports the song’s concept of
eternal love.

Likewise, displaying Swift and her love interest as star-crossed lovers gives a
personal aspect to the story, allowing viewers to connect with the characters and their
experiences. The video’s ending, in which the couple reunites despite familial
opposition, provides a positive resolution that contrasts to Shakespeare’s tragic ending.
It perfectly depicts the emotions and sensations of young love, making it relatable and
nostalgic to listeners of all ages. The lyrics throughout the song paint a picture of a
couple who are willing to risk everything for love. It also signifies that love may seem
difficult but it is truly a wonderful and beautiful feeling in people’s heart and soul that
gives meaning to the essence of life.

In connection to this, the group believes that the use of intertextuality improves
the song’s overall quality. The references to well-known literary and cultural works serve
as a structure for listeners to analyze and relate to the song’s themes of passion,
longing, and rebellion. For an instance, the lyrics were inspired by other romantic
stories with strict parents as stated in the line of the song “You were Romeo, you were
throwing pebbles And my daddy said, ‘Stay away from Juliet.” Swift’s skilled use of
intertextuality not only pays homage to literary traditions but also adds depth and
complexity to her artistic expression, creating “Love Story” a shining example of how
contemporary music can engage with traditional storylines.

In conclusion, Taylor Swift’s “Love Story” and its music video form a cohesive
narrative that captivates audiences with its timeless themes and visual storytelling.
While the video relies on classic cliches, its execution elevates the music to a cinematic
experience that leaves a lasting impression.