Released in 2020 on Taylor Swift's album 'Evermore,' 'Marjorie' is a poignant tribute to her late grandmother, Marjorie Finlay. The song blends personal reflection with nostalgic memories, making it a touching exploration of loss and remembrance. Its emotional depth and clear lyrics make it an excellent resource for English learners to practice comprehension and vocabulary. Swift co-wrote the song with Aaron Dessner, who contributes to the album's folk-influenced sound.
Lyrics
Marjorie — Taylor Swift
English
Never be so kind, you forget to be clever
Never be so clever, you forget to be kind
And if I didn't know better
I'd think you were talking to me now
If I didn't know better
I'd think you were still around
What died didn't stay dead [repeat]
You're alive, you're alive in my head
What died didn't stay dead [repeat]
You're alive, so alive
Never be so polite, you forget your power
Never wield such power, you forget to be polite
And if I didn't know better
I'd think you were listening to me now
If I didn't know better
I'd think you were still around
[Chorus]
The autumn chill that wakes me up
You loved the amber skies so much
Long limbs and frozen swims
You'd always go past where our feet could touch
And I complained the whole way there
The car ride back and up the stairs
I should've asked you questions
I should've asked you how to be
Asked you to write it down for me
Should've kept every grocery store receipt
'Cause every scrap of you would be taken from me
Watched as you signed your name Marjorie
All your closets of backlogged dreams
And how you left them all to me
[Chorus]
And if I didn't know better
I'd think you were singing to me now
If I didn't know better
I'd think you were still around
I know better
But I still feel you all around
I know better
But you're still around
Grammar
What you learn from this song
Simple Past - Pasado Simple
The Simple Past tense is used to describe actions that were completed at a specific time in the past. It is essential for English learners because it helps communicate past experiences clearly.
'You loved the amber skies so much' — A statement that indicates a past sentiment.
'I should've asked you questions' — Reflects an action that the speaker regretfully did not do in the past.
'Every scrap of you would be taken from me' — Describes an event that has already occurred.
Simple Present - Presente Simple
The Simple Present tense expresses habits, general truths, and repeated actions. It is crucial for learners as it forms the basis for everyday communication.
'What died didn't stay dead' — A general statement about permanence in memory.
'And I complained the whole way there' — Describes a habitual action, emphasizing the speaker's past behavior.
'You're alive, you're alive in my head' — Indicates a current perception that contrasts with past events.
Fun facts
Did you know?
Taylor Swift incorporated actual recordings of her grandmother's voice in 'Marjorie,' making it a heartfelt tribute with an intimate touch.
The song peaked at number 34 on the Billboard Hot 100, showcasing Swift's continued relevance in the music industry.
Besides her solo success, Marjorie Finlay was a renowned opera singer, influencing Taylor's artistic career in many ways.
The repeating lyrics in 'Marjorie' emphasize the song's theme of enduring memory and connection to loved ones.
'Marjorie' received critical acclaim for its songwriting and production, reflecting how mature Swift's artistry has become over the years.
For students
Why learn English with this song?
Learning with 'Marjorie' is effective due to its intermediate vocabulary level and emotional clarity, which offers rich opportunities for expression. The repetition of phrases reinforces vocabulary retention and comprehension. Additionally, Taylor Swift's clear pronunciation aids listeners in understanding nuances in the English language.
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