Taylor Swift’s 2010 album “Speak Now” showcased the pop-country superstar’s remarkable songwriting abilities, and one of the album’s standout tracks is the poignant ballad “Back to December.” Written entirely by Swift herself, the song reflects on a past relationship with a maturity and thoughtfulness that sets it apart from much of her earlier work.
“Back to December” is a vulnerable, reflective number that finds Swift acknowledging the mistakes she made in a past relationship and expressing regret over letting it go. With its emotive lyrics and Swift’s powerful vocal performance, the song strikes a chord of melancholy and longing that resonates with listeners.
What makes “Back to December” such a compelling listen is the way it captures the complexities of human relationships. Swift doesn’t shy away from owning up to her role in the relationship’s demise, singing, “I miss your tan skin, your sweet smile, so good to me, so right.” The track’s mature perspective sets it apart from much of her earlier work, showcasing Swift’s growth as both a songwriter and a person.
Ultimately, “Back to December” stands as one of the highlights of Swift’s “Speak Now” album, a poignant reflection on the ups and downs of love and the emotions that linger long after a relationship has ended. It’s a testament to Swift’s continued evolution as one of pop music’s most compelling storytellers.
Lyrics “Back to December”
I’m so glad you made time to see me How’s life? Tell me, how’s your family? I haven’t seen them in a while You’ve been good, busier than ever We small talk, work and the weather Your guard is up and I know why
Because the last time you saw me Is still burned in the back of your mind You gave me roses and I left them there to die
So this is me swallowin’ my pride Standin’ in front of you sayin’ I’m sorry for that night And I go back to December all the time It turns out freedom ain’t nothin’ but missin’ you Wishin’ I’d realized what I had when you were mine I’d go back to December, turn around and make it alright I go back to December all the time
These days, I haven’t been sleepin’ Stayin’ up playin’ back myself leavin’ When your birthday passed and I didn’t call Then I think about summer, all the beautiful times I watched you laughin’ from the passenger’s side And realized I loved you in the fall
And then the cold came, the dark days When fear crept into my mind You gave me all your love and all I gave you was goodbye
So this is me swallowin’ my pride Standin’ in front of you sayin’ I’m sorry for that night And I go back to December all the time It turns out freedom ain’t nothin’ but missin’ you Wishin’ I’d realized what I had when you were mine I’d go back to December, turn around and change my own mind I go back to December all the time
I miss your tan skin, your sweet smile So good to me, so right And how you held me in your arms that September night The first time you ever saw me cry Maybe this is wishful thinkin’ Probably mindless dreamin’ But if we loved again, I swear I’d love you right
I’d go back in time and change it, but I can’t So if the chain is on your door, I understand
But this is me swallowin’ my pride Standin’ in front of you sayin’ I’m sorry for that night And I go back to December It turns out freedom ain’t nothin’ but missin’ you Wishin’ I’d realized what I had when you were mine I’d go back to December, turn around and make it alright I’d go back to December, turn around and change my own mind I go back to December all the time All the time
