Emotional Expression in Taylor Swift’s ‘Back to December’ Using Halliday’s Systemic Functional Linguistics

Abstract

This study examines the emotional expression in Taylor Swift’s song “Back to December” through the Systemic Functional Linguistics (SFL) framework developed by Halliday. Using a qualitative approach analysis, this research investigates how Swift’s lyrical choices reflect the ideational, interpersonal, and textual metafunctions of language, which reveal her expressions of regret, longing, and introspection. The ideational metafunction highlights her use of vivid imagery and metaphors to convey personal reflection on love and loss. Through the interpersonal metafunction, Swift’s confessional tone fosters a deep connection with her audience, evoking empathy and shared emotional experiences. The textual metafunction, with its cohesive structure, guides listeners through her emotional journey, enhancing the song's impact. Findings show that Swift’s lyrics not only tell a personal story but also resonate universally, affirming the role of music as a medium for emotional expression and connection. This study contributes to a growing body of research on popular music and linguistics, highlighting the significance of language in conveying complex emotions and fostering connections between artists and audiences.