When Taylor Swift’s The Life of a Showgirl tracklist was revealed, Swifties immediately began theorizing about the lineup’s titles — with much speculation surrounding the track, “Ruin the Friendship.” Would it recall a falling out with a high-profile pal, or perhaps serve as a playful ode to making the first move?

As it turns out, neither. The “Ruin the Friendship” lyrics explain Swift’s journey with loss and regret. The song’s warm, balmy sound belies its arrival as one of the most heartbreaking entries in her oeuvre.

Nostalgic Pangs

Swift constructs “Ruin the Friendship” around high school memories, like driving around Nashville and going to prom. Specifically, she reflects on moments with a friend who had a “miles-wide” smile, someone who could have been something more.

In hinds

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