Taylor Swift’s Childhood Memories

Taylor Swift is an American singer songwriter who has won 116 music and writing awards. Let’s take a look at how this talented, 'down to earth' lady creates a story in conversation.

TAYLOR SWIFT:  “When you say, ‘I spent my summers at the Jersey Shore,’ people always say, ‘Oh, really?’ They think of the TV show. So I just say, ‘A cute little harbor town in New Jersey.’ “We lived on this basin where all this magical stuff would happen. One time a dolphin swam into our basin. We had this family of otters that would live on our dock at night. We’d turn the light on and you’d see them, you know, hanging out, just being otters. And then one summer, there was a shark that washed up on our dock. I ended up writing a novel that summer because I wouldn’t go in the water. I locked myself in the den and wrote a book. When I was fourteen. She laughs. “Because of a shark!”

Taylor Swift's Speaking Style

Taylor’s story is warm, loveable, and memorable.  Taylor Swift shares a magical moment from her childhood by the ocean.  Immediately, Taylor Swift sets the tone by creating a PG13 version of New Jersey that is in contrast to the TV show.   Taylor takes control! Taylor segways into ‘her’ Jersey shore by re-framing the language to engage a magical childhood memory:

“A cute little harbor town in New Jersey”

Moreover, Taylor shares with the listener a glimpse of a 14 year old burgeoning songwriter practicing her craft passionately:

 “I ended up writing a novel that summer because I wouldn’t go in the water. I locked myself in the den and wrote a book.”

Next, she finishes her childhood memories by making a wonderful joke about her younger self:  

...She laughs. “Because of a shark!”

This ocean setting is a place of enjoyment that anyone would love to experience. It is such an easy story to be involved in as a listener!

The language of the story is exceptional!  Swift has just shared an intimate and fun time with the listener.  This is great 'language & style' to create a past and casual 'story telling feel' to your conversation.  Follow Taylor’s Swift's style but make it your own!

Try it out and remember to have fun!

Key Phrases

We lived on this basin where all this magical stuff would happen.

We’d ______________.

One time ____________________.

And then one summer, __________________________.

Create a definition in the words below within the context of Taylor's conversation. 

ended up =

hanging out =  

Next week I will post an example idea/answer at Celebrity English (link below). Also, you are always welcome to send me your ideas/answers and I will check them over.

Have a good one!

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