Music and poetry often intertwine, sharing a common resonance. Therefore, when Taylor Swift announced 'The Tortured Poets Department', there was widespread anticipation that the realms of music and verse would collide in a unique manner. Swift, known for intricately weaving themes and subtle clues reflective of the record's atmosphere, did not disappoint with this release. While numerous fans keenly decoded the hidden messages within the tracks, drawing connections to her contemporaries, many also noted references to esteemed poets from the literary canon such as Patti Smith and Dylan Thomas.

Patti Smith upon being mentioned, expressed her joy and delight through her socials, acknowledging Swift's touching tribute.

In Taylor Swift's anthology 'The Tortured Poets Department', which comprises 31 tracks, Patti Smith finds herself mentioned in the title track alongside the Welsh author Dylan Thomas. Smith, known for her roles as an author, poet, and singer-songwriter, took to Instagram to share two monochromatic snapshots of herself engrossed in a book by Thomas. Accompanying the photos was a caption where Smith expressed being "moved" by her reference alongside Thomas in the track, where Swift sings, “You’re not Dylan Thomas / I’m not Patti Smith”.

Smith further concluded her note with a gracious "Thank You Taylor". While fans speculated about the underlying connections prompting Swift's mention of the duo, Stephanie Burt, a Harvard Professor renowned for teaching classes on Swift, offered insights into the matter. Burt explained that "Patti Smith is who you invoke if you want to talk about a woman onstage who is absolutely magnetic," while "Dylan Thomas is who you invoke if you want to talk about a romantic, self-destructive poet". While that explains much about the context, Smith was not the only one in awe of her mention in the album. 

From Equalling Adele to Breaking Records, Taylor Swift Sets the World on Fire With ‘The Tortured Poets Department'

Like Smith was wooed by the clever injection of her mention in Swift’s song, another reference to a famous artist garnered positive attention from the individual’s family members.

Taylor Swift's brilliance in her craft is undeniable, hence the overwhelming reception her work receives is entirely understandable. While the pop sensation herself expressed gratitude to reviewers via her social media platforms, those associated with the references in her albums also cherished these mentions. Thus, not just Patti Smith but the mention of Clara Bow in Swift's track 'Clara Bow' also caught the attention of the actress's family members, particularly her great-granddaughters.

In an interview with People magazine, Nicole Sisneros and Brittany Grace Bell, Bow's great-granddaughters, shared how they experienced "chills" upon hearing the song dedicated to the 1920s actress. They praised Swift and Bow as "it girls," while noting how their entire family deeply appreciated Swift's efforts in preserving Bow's legacy. Mirroring the sentiments expressed by Bow's family, Patti Smith's reaction emphasized the powerful influence of Swift's artistry and her adeptness at honoring cultural icons. As for Swift herself, there is no doubt that she stands as a cultural icon of this era.

Pure Dominance: Taylor Swift Takes Over a Whopping 90% of Spots on Apple Music

What do you think of Patti Smith's gesture of appreciation for Taylor Swift upon her mention in the latter's 'The Tortured Poets Department's' track? Let us know in the comments below!