Critics respond to Taylor Swift’s The Life of a Showgirl as Wood becomes centre of discussion

Taylor Swift has released her 12th studio album, The Life of a Showgirl, on October 3. Produced with Max Martin and Shellback, the record was created during Swift’s Eras Tour, with sessions taking place in Sweden between stops.

The album draws on behind-the-scenes experiences from the tour and her relationship with fiancé Travis Kelce.

Early remarks came from Kelce himself, who said the album was “banger after banger” and promised it would “make you dance.”

Once released, critics weighed in with differing views on the album and particularly its track Wood, which details the intimate side of Swift’s relationship.

NPR described the record as “generally a sunny album,” highlighting Swift’s happiness and the humour in its love songs, including Wood.

Billboard noted that while the songs followed traditional pop structures, the collection reflected Swift’s lyrical evolution and maturity, calling it “Bangers for Adults.”

The New York Times framed the project as Swift greeting her future with optimism while reflecting on her past, while Variety said the album suggested love felt “easy-fought” compared with earlier records. People observed that it was her most radio-ready pop collection since 1989.

Not all responses were positive. The Guardian argued that Wood was a “misstep” and that the album lacked the sharpness of her past work, questioning whether personal contentment had softened her writing.

Overall, The Life of a Showgirl has been interpreted as a shift from the melancholy of The Tortured Poets Department towards a lighter tone, balancing playfulness with moments of sharp lyricism.