The Real Meaning Behind Taylor Swift's Dorothea Lyrics

Fans are wondering whether the name "Dorothea" has any significance, or if it's made up. While who Dorothea is remains somewhat of a mystery, Vulture makes the point that the song is told without male pronouns and "from the perspective of an unnamed narrator in Dorothea's hometown." Dorothea moved away to seek her fortune in Hollywood and the narrator is left wondering whether she ever thinks of her.

If the tale rings familiar, that's probably because it is. Folklore's "Betty," which tells the story of a love triangle between three teenagers, was widely believed to be a gay anthem. Twitter users have been quick to connect "Betty" with "Dorothea," arguing that both songs are "for the sapphics." As Vulture noted, "Dorothea" is packed with references to blowing off prom (possibly rejecting heteronormative expectations), illicit make-out sessions under the bleachers, and the shared trauma of being different. The track's lyrics also include lines like, "I guess I'll never know / and you'll go on with the show," which may allude to being in the closet.

In the lead-up to Evermore's release, Swift answered fan questions on YouTube (via Just Jared), explaining that while "there's not a direct continuation of the betty/james/august storyline, in my mind Dorothea went to the same school as Betty, James and Inez." Make of that what you will! Happy Evermore decoding, Swifties.

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