DEEP DIVE: Is Eternal Sunshine Ariana's Magnum Opus?

[@theswiftologist]

surprise! we released our general sale tickets a little early for my YT early birds :) come see me and madeline recapping the lover era on June 20 in London for a one night performance of Evolution of a Snake (!!!): www.eventbrite.com/e/evolution-of-a-snake-the-taylor-swift-podcast-live-tickets-847113588547?aff=oddtdtcreator

[@alisondawnsmith]

My husband likes to poke fun at all the Taylor content I watch, so I like to point out when I'm watching non-Taylor things. I said "Look! Zach isn't talking about Taylor Swift" and he said "Just you wait, it'll turn into Taylor Swift" and literally less than 40 seconds later you mentioned Taylor Swift! Way to make my husband "right" lol... I have to laugh...

[@theswiftologist]

LMAO.....well.....

[@Flixtex]

There is a effect where If ur Taylor fan , people around will also be turned into Taylor fan 😂 They might not say it but they want to know or hear abt Taylor as much as you do.

[@willmcnally3388]

It's the TSCU and we all live in it

[@maryaudrey7945]

Zach, Mentioning Taylor swift? No, it couldn’t be.

[@yoanagendzhova691]

or he can just be supportive and appreciate Zach’s thoughtful analysis and get off the making fun of liking Taylor Swift train…

[@savannahadams217]

I think "but at least I look this good" is not a lazy line, Ariana is so comedic and as you said, has a hard time confronting emotions head-on. It's an element of comedic relief that I think she needed in order to feel good about the song. Like in the vulnerable last verse of thank u next when she says "God forbid something happens, least this song is a smash"

[@moonbunny1221]

I agree, I think it was self-aware and cheeky

[@avaklein9145]

also, if u look at the song in a different light, it becomes something totally different. i think the song is about how she is portrayed in the media, 'dont wanna let this story die', 'papers and pens', 'me and my truth we sit in silence' referring to how she never replies, 'u got me misunderstood but at least i look this good' as in youre reporting on the story wrong and using my face for it

[@maryem9225]

eh. I think it would be funny in another context but it does kinda take me out of my dramatic singing of the song lol

[@diaz9rox]

No I thought this was exactly a rip off of “at least this song is a smash” and does feel lazy and out of beat with the rest of the songs.

[@kbean23]

I agree that it's not a lazy line, but I actually read it more, in the context of the prior lyrics, that her partner doesn't understand her, her intentions, how she's feeling, but seems to value or appreciate her body/aesthetics. Like sure, you don't get *me* but I'm still hot to you so it's whatever.

[@WalkingFishTaco]

She’s really in her prime here, I feel like positions as an album has great staying power and will continue to age well, and eternal sunshine is finally a collected cohesive project that feels like more than just a tracklist of radio bops and ballads. Top three: 1. Supernatural (horny Ariana just never misses tbh 💀) 2. We can’t be friends 3. Eternal sunshine

[@theswiftologist]

supernatural is great!!

[@MarielJoan]

This album has no skips. Beautifully produced, modern and nostalgic. The whispers of “real life events” is just a cherry on top that makes us connect with the artist, but not a necessity.

[@pan6529]

yes and is a skip imo

[@nguyenhaiang8545]

wait where did the whispers happen? please i need to know T.T

[@MarielJoan]

@@nguyenhaiang8545 oh no, that was a metaphor. 🩵

[@nielsnable]

@@pan6529”yes, and?” is a great song, but I get where you’re coming from. It’s sonically different from the rest of the album. Should’ve been released as a non-album single.

[@TigerVids531]

​@@nguyenhaiang8545 yes, and? Is great as a song but it doesn't fit the album or the vibe that it's building up to.

[@alexnicole6806]

Oh this is what was getting me through the WEEK. bye, supernatural, and we can’t be friends are instant hits for me!

[@theswiftologist]

I have to agree w u doll....

[@that_mintie_swiftieslayy]

Literally my two fav songs on the record😭

[@cc1526]

Stop those are my three too 🫶

[@happynealltdpolly]

I was judging her for a whole year and then I suddenly remembered that 2 years ago I wanted this man so bad I thought he would choose me over his girlfriend... I just erased it from my memory. That's when I understood that I' ll better keep myself in check than judging celebrities I know nothing about.

[@theswiftologist]

Well yes!!

[@prdarmywf04]

Zach, watching your videos is like being in a college level lecture. I am interested in what you have to say, I feel smarter after every one of these thoughtful breakdowns. I’m not even that interested in Ariana but you just have a way of presenting that keeps me engaged. Thank you for your work.

[@theswiftologist]

thank you so much, that means a lot!!

[@ufcia20]

Beautifully said 🤌🏻

[@sajaaz-ym8bj]

I love “don’t want to break up again” and “imperfect for you” sooo muchhh!!!! I’ve never really listened to Arian grande, excluding her huge hits which are unavoidable to miss, but I’m pleasantly surprised

[@theswiftologist]

I was pleasantly surprised too as an Ariana agnostic/casual listener over the years :)

[@JetpackLiamG]

My top 3: 1. We can't be friends (w4yl) 2. Supernatural 3. Eternal sunshine Really enjoyed the album, it was the first Ariana album I've listened to all the way through and it was great

[@vvieites001]

Same! In that order

[@mil_exit]

Me three, in that order

[@hanakacmarova5575]

Same! ❤❤❤

[@TigerVids531]

I wish I hated you is so underrated

[@RyanStorey1231]

This is by far my favorite Ariana Grande album as well. The tracklist is cohesive and concise, the production is so dreamy and ethereal, Ariana's lyricism - while still clunky at times - has seen a huge improvement, and I love seeing Ariana get more involved in the production side of things. This is a side of her that I hope she explores more and more, because it's something that not many people know about her. She knows her way around a soundboard and this shows just how much of an impact Imogen Heap has had on women in music. It's just a shame that I think this album is going to fly under the radar because of the drama. I truly don't understand why people care so much about something that, at the end of the day, is messy interpersonal drama between three parties that doesn't have anything to do with us. She didn't commit a heinous crime, she didn't abuse anybody, she didn't do or say anything bigoted, or anything that truly warrants a cancellation. She just has a messy love life, and the specifics of that are truly none of our fucking business. If the allegations are true, it's still so misogynistic the way everyone paints her as the sole villain. "She broke up a happy marriage" - as if Ethan didn't have any agency in this as well. If this is all true, then he was the one who made the decision to cheat on his wife. And assuming this is all true (which we don't actually know for sure), then yes, Ariana's moral character deserves to be called into question. But painting her as the sole villain and being so pressed about it as if she did this to YOU is misogyny. Especially because, look at so many male artists who have done worse things and still have a career. If this stupid drama kills Ariana's career, while Kanye West still has a career... I don't know what to tell you, other than we really love blaming women for everything. It's a cringe line, but Ariana was right: "Why do you care whose dick I ride?"

[@allofyourbestfriends5417]

if it was a “happy marriage” ethan wouldn’t have cheated😭

[@theswiftologist]

totally agree!!!!! louder!!!

[@headoverdiors]

@@allofyourbestfriends5417ethan didnt cheat.

[@catkin-z8g]

Taylor Swift's stuff is Taylor Swift's. Bashing Ariana isn't going to make Taylor any better. I think the Taylor Swift cult seems to be involved in this bashing. Their Swifty cult membership has something to do with their nastyness. It is really bad and does not look good for whatever Taylor has done to attract these sort of nasty people or foster this kind of abusive mob. It is hard to tell from comments tho. I asked some and they didn't deny being Swifties but maybe they are quite comfortable to hide behind Taylor Swift and won't admit who they really are and what their agenda is. They could turn on anyone or be used for many bad things so this sort of mob behavior is really very dangerous. There was some signs maybe there was some legislation to do with children or they are related to psychiatry and stuff. Ariana made a video where she said how she was healthier now and used to be talking alot of antidepressants shortly before this smear campaign began. These abusers have long been attacking children with such poisons. They are treasonous criminals. People don't fund research so narc abuse can be mainstreamed.

[@lherz13]

The fact that we can understand all of her words now speaks volumes--she's embracing a new era and I am here for it!!

[@theswiftologist]

Seated!

[@Benspoetsdepartment]

This album did things to me that i cant even explain

[@tonygme]

Ariologist yuh

[@theswiftologist]

yuh yuh

[@hassanmansour9857]

😭😭

[@RiannaNicole]

I found you last year and appreciate your take on splitting art from artist, and the spicy takes and feather ruffling you can do. Not many are doing that anymore, in a genuine way.

[@theswiftologist]

tysm diva!!

[@majorisker]

Ordinary Things is my favorite song, I feel like it is being very overlooked. The production is so beautiful and the vocal melodies are incredible. I just wish it was longer.

[@theswiftologist]

it's growing on me!

[@warriordoghotdog]

i also overlooked it at first but what else can u expect when its a closing track😭imo closing tracks are doomed to be overlooked and sometimes least streamed from the album but the chorus is really catchy i like it

[@cc1526]

The word “ordinary” just doesn’t fit and she’s saying it really weirdly to try to get it to fit. Lol I think that’s why people aren’t really liking it.

[@catkin-z8g]

Matching suits lol. The girl is sublime.

[@cc1526]

@myself just now realizing she’s saying ordinary weirdly so that it doesn’t sound “ordinary.” Lol I get it I appreciate it.. but it makes me not like the song. Lol

[@marcuscharlesworth8910]

The way you speak about the artists as such a fan but also are able to have a level headed approach is amazing. The way you can deep dive into all the references and talk about Ariana and the songs and the albums and her journey is just breathtaking. Im actually just overwhelmed with how well you can talk about these albums. There’s nothing I love more than someone who can truly understand the intricacies within music and you do it so well. Thank you

[@DoveCalderwood]

I've never listened to an entire Ariana album before. This video convinced me to listen to Eternal Sunshine, and I'm glad I did!

[@briannawhite7547]

Top 3 1. imperfect for you 2. i wish i hated you 3. bye Really enjoyed your breakdown, eternal sunshine is definitely in my top 3 Ariana albums

[@heatherblack9744]

10/10 content Zach - loved this!!! My top 3 were supernatural, we can't be friends and eternal sunshine but with special mention to the intro.

[@theswiftologist]

great selects!! I love the intro too, it's so pretty

[@Rose7815]

I love this album and I was impatiently waiting for your video! My top 3 is ordinary things, imperfect for you (what can I say!!! I love love) and eternal sunshine

[@theswiftologist]

I sense a lover stan in this comment section...

[@warriordoghotdog]

yesssss i'm so glad u made a video about eternal sunshine! i love this album so much it's one of my favs (but that could just be bc its new). my top three are definitely imperfect for you, true story, and eternal sunshine. some honorable mentions are definitely intro and bye. the intro is so magical!

[@theswiftologist]

the intro is not getting enough credit including in this video lksdnflkjdsn

[@creepypapermultipack]

I listened to the album last night for the first time and was kind of blown away by the album on the whole, at least sonically. I might be biased since 1) I’m really digging the theme because Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is one of my favorite films (as a theatre kid myself, I’m living for this concept), and 2) I was a young teen in the mid-late 90’s so all the references you made to other artists of that time make perfect sense and might be partly why I found myself vibing and falling in love so fast and hard upon first listen. Sonically it’s ethereal, emotional, and energetic. I’m sure upon further listening I’ll find more nuance in the record but as of right now it’s my favorite album she’s released so far. I really appreciate all the points you made and will definitely be considering them as I listen again.

[@sydneypawlak]

I love you as a journalist and a writer. Your storytelling is so cohesive and enjoyable and your vernacular is *chefs kiss* makes you so engaging and welcoming to audiences while still reporting to such a professional caliber. (Makes sense with ur journalism background but I thought I’d let you know in case no one has patted you on the back today)

[@theswiftologist]

thank you so much Sydney! feels good to be ~seen~

[@user-vn8kq2ok2l]

Curious what you think about “we can’t be friends” being about the general public/critics/ even her fans? The “papers and pens” line and her not wanting to answer the question who the song is about in the Zac Sang interview sold it for me. Honestly, it made me respect her even more considering all the parasocial pop star relationships. Also feels very self aware “I’ll wait for your love”

[@theswiftologist]

I don't really put a lot of stock into that opinion bc I think the lyrics quite clearly describe a public breakup, and the video depicts pretty much the whole conceit of the album mediated through the lyrics of this song. there's a BTS video she just uploaded where she talks about what the song actually means, and it's not about the media lmao

[@catkin-z8g]

I thought being played like Atari might be a reference to page 6 via page 6 Atari magazine. In this song tho the papers and pens maybe represent fixed ideas or ones influenced or altered by media or smear. Maybe getting back to the truth after being brainwashed. It is a bit like honeymoon avenue. The live from london last year is one of her best performances.

[@doe.little]

I know this video is about Ari (who I love with my whole heart), I couldn't help but draw parallels between this album and Taylor's discography (mainly Midnights). Personally, this is impressive to me, because it means Ari has reached a level of songwriting where she is able to articulate her feelings and vulnerability in a way that touches you deep in your soul. And no, I don't care that she doesn't throw around big words for the sake of it, it's not about the words, but what you do with them. This album touched me in a way that her previous work didn't as much and I'm "eternally🤭" grateful for that ❤☀

[@GeorgeRadcliffe]

I saw someone said We can’t be friends is written from Ariana to the media/public and now I can’t unsee it. It completely changes me whole meaning of the song

[@Sitting_on_a_perch]

I had the same thought- it’s like she talking to the public - “how you paint me” I’m still here hanging. “Wait until you like me again” - she’s had a revolving door of love and hate from the public towards her for years. Me and my truth we sit in silence- you got me misunderstood. The relationship btwn a celebrity and the public is weird and not real bc we don’t know them. But we’d all like to just pretend…

[@robertacasacchia4708]

I’m amazed by how detailed and in-depth your album analysis are. Besides that, I must agree, this is her best peace of art so far ✨

[@theswiftologist]

thank you for noticing Roberta!!

[@Luke-lb2cv]

Ok now, can we just comment on how amazing Zack looks in this video? Hair and eyebrows and face are serving today.

[@theswiftologist]

Thank you!!

[@annastark6957]

Was waiting for somebody to comment on that

[@enchantedgoldrush]

yess I'm so excited to hear what you think

[@jejopads]

i believe ariana has mentioned that she intends to make "many more" music videos for the album so i'm really hoping eternal sunshine eventually becomes a visual album by the end of its era! truly appreciate the objective and well-researched review. 💚

[@theswiftologist]

ooooh I really hope for more videos too!! thanks for watching

[@guille1505]

I'm SO glad you made a video on Eternal Sunshine, I was literally praying to the Gods because I wanted to hear your thoughts on the record 🥹

[@theswiftologist]

glad to give it to you!!

[@sarah_marie16]

Ariana was my #26 most listened to artist of all time and now she’s my 3rd so uh I’ve listened to this album a couple times…

[@brookelouise1561]

I wasn't sure if you were going to make a video about this album but I'M SEATED!!!

[@LisaGallegos]

This album made me so emotional ❤ I’ve never bene an Ari fan but I am now!

[@theswiftologist]

welcome!!

[@alisonbender8575]

Can we talk about her vocals during the SNL performance? It was so fun to hear her bring in her signature sound in the live versions because the album was so vocally held back.

[@lins_z2]

My favorites are bye, don’t wanna break up again, eternal sunshine, I wish I hated you and we can’t be friends. I love the album overall!! I think while the relationship bit reflected in the album was a great analysis, I think after “true story” till “we can’t be friends” we have a double or multiple meaning to the songs, all which correlate to “yes, and?” So even if sonicly the song is a standout in the sense of it being very different, that the theme is similar: “this is a true story about all the lies you fantasize about you and I” criticizing how people paint her and make their own stories in their minds of who she is, “the boy is mine” is taking is further, getting into that role that people and the media created in “true story”, then “yes, and?” It’s her way of answering back, while “we can’t be friends” can also be used as a vulnerable side to it “me and my truth we sit in silence” and “you cling to your papers and pens, wait until you like me again”, finally ending in the bridge where she sings “I don’t like how you paint me” and “not what you made me”, sharing her dislike of the situation, but realizing there’s no use in looking for their validation anymore, that’s at the end of the day she’ll have herself and that’s all she needs, and she feels seen in the “night”, when the lights from the camera are away, with the people she cares about.

[@theswiftologist]

ELITE top three!!

[@tasotheduck1997]

I will consistently stay up until 1 am each Sunday even though I have school on Mondays for the Swiftologist

[@theswiftologist]

well yes as you should

[@warriordoghotdog]

me rn

[@heatherhensley9183]

Loved her snl performance!

[@theswiftologist]

same! understated and gorgeous

[@gouriiiz]

Last 4 songs completely sent me 🙃😭

[@Mayray22]

6:27 doggy in the background is too precious 🥹

[@AmIAllowedToCry013]

i love imagine and imperfect for you. they’re beautiful songs. gorgeous lyrics and production

[@causeimnachoprincess]

this was such a pleasant watch because i've seen ariana stans love the album & the non-fans just ok it or say it was bad. everything you said had me nodding along like SOMEONE GETS IT! my top 3 are eternal sunshine, i wish i hated you, & supernatural

[@theswiftologist]

thanks for watching diva always love to see you in the comments!! taste in your top 3

[@hassanmansour9857]

No one's saying its bad except for the chart obsessed swifties on twitter who hate ariana because she is a competition to Taylor, every other fandom member I've seen are adoring this record.

[@causeimnachoprincess]

@@hassanmansour9857 we must be on different sides of the internet - glad yours is loving ari but mine is mostly not lol. i actually had someone tell me they don't take my opinions on music seriously anymore bc i love this album

[@iGooseMax]

I want to like this video over 1,000 times. The structure and detail, you’re so thorough. I cannot stress enough how much I loved/appreciated this. ❤️

[@theswiftologist]

Thank you so much for tuning in!

[@lecthomaz]

I think the lyrics "at least i look this good" is because we cant be friends is not meant to be for her ex, but to her fans and the media, for putting her name in the trash and now, that she is back with a movie and a record, will just pretend they never hurt her or talk shit about her. So the line is a hint about the whole body shamming she suffered. My faves are imperfect for you, eternal sunshine and wait for your love

[@catkin-z8g]

Aianators didn't talk shit about her. It was the swifties surely trying to boost Taylor using dirty tactics. It really undermines her acomplishments when you realize how manufactured they are. She probably uses bots to boost her numbers and CIA money to buy her tckets and advertise on CNN. So fake. A billion $? What a joke. They probably spent 10 billion promoting her and the tour has been a huge loss. Maybe there is a whole swifty commune where the cult were busy making these nasty aricles and videos to try and tear down the competition. How else could they pass off Taylor Swift as the biggest star in history? 😆 Let's fly far, far away and never come back. The Swifites needs to be held to account. Lets not forget that there was already an attack on one of Ariana's concerts so this is very serious.

[@nubesvaporosas7191]

The effort you put on the b-roll didn't go unnoticed❤️ good job on this one!

[@theswiftologist]

THANK YOU I wanted to make sure my editing was on point after a few flops these past videos ljsdfnjldsnl

[@sammazza763]

Eternal sunshine is one of my favorite movies mostly because I’m a Long Island native so when she centered the theme of this album around the movie I was more emotional than I should’ve been, that music video was a perfect tribute to the movie

[@theswiftologist]

ahhhhh to be from Long Island and an eternal sunshine enjoyer! waiting patiently for a great movie about singapore I can cling on to.....

[@sammazza763]

@@theswiftologist you know I only appreciate Long Island now because I’ve lived in Nashville for 5 years but I will say watching the movie now makes me a little homesick and I appreciate it a little more lol I didn’t understand why everyone back home liked it so much until I saw it and I went “wait is he talking about Montauk as in like an hour away???” Now I’m going to re watch it and feel all new feelings

[@nittyarizza]

I actually disagree with Zach’s take on “We Can’t Be Friends”. When I first heard the song, I thought it was a direct response to the speculation on her relationship with Ethan Slater and also what happened with her ex husband Dalton Gomez. The lyrics are directly addressing the public and the press, who demonizes her. She doesn’t want to fuel the fire of the rumors so she sits with her “truth” in silence. She waits for the public to love her again, as she knows she has fallen out of their favour. And ultimately, she knows that these para-social relationships that people have with her are not real. People don’t ACTUALLY know her, or know what happened, and the fact that they are so willing to judge her means that they can’t be friends. On the flip side, there is that “double meaning” where it’s conceptually about a romantic relationship that come to an end, as Zach suggests. Ariana uses this vague meaning to structure her music video, where the end scenes leave us with some lingering questions. The necklace that turns into a dog collar, insinuates that the memory has been erased and replaced with something else, even after asking to keep that one memory. This shows that no matter how badly you want it to work, sometimes it’s just best to move on. The dog collar could also signify the feeling of “ownership” she felt in her previous relationship and the potential lack of freedom she felt. There is also speculation that it could be a nod to Mac miller, who left a dog in her care after his tragic overdose. Overall, I didn’t want to enjoy this project, but this video essay pointed out some really interesting things and made me appreciate the album more. Great job Zach!

[@echobean5222]

What a day to watch. I just googled my ‘Saturn’s return’ and it’s tomorrow 😅

[@theswiftologist]

OMGGG buckle up girl this might be your new bible

[@Kate-tj4ju]

ZACH THIS IS YOU AT YOUR BEST

[@theswiftologist]

thank you legend!!

[@cinnamoroll__girl]

yes, and? is actually perfect on the album in terms of sequencing. we can’t be friends (wait for your love) refers to her relationship with the media and the general public, yes, and? sets it up very well.

[@LilaoftheWind]

I was literally searching for a swiftologist video on eternal sunshine yesterday, and when i couldn’t find one, i hoped it would come out soon. thank you for sharing your thoughts! couldn’t agree more on soooo many points you made. it’s nice to see someone who has done their research and dives deep into the source material’s meaning, while interpreting it in such a relatable way… AND pushing the discussion in new directions that many media sources and reactors completely miss… this is why i love your videos. ❤

[@theswiftologist]

thanks so much for watching!! this is why I really wanted to do a review and not a reaction, as soon as I heard it I knew it would 1. be misunderstood and 2. deserved a craft analysis beyond the gossip

[@ERIN10E]

zach, i LOVE your analysis! was really waiting for this one. i've missed ari in the popscape, and i'm really appreciating her artistic growth and contributions on this new record :)

[@erikmandolini]

this album is really special to me and one of her best albums to date FOR SURE, here’s my top 3: 1. we can’t be friends (wait for your love) 2. true story 3. eternal sunshine

[@tadhgbutler4191]

This album is one of her Best but dangerous women exists. I loved the way she released the album I liked not having a second single

[@MadelynnCrow]

Can’t wait to see what you think!!!

[@juliannanoelle1573]

The interlude into eternal sunshine made me CRYYYYYYYY. really enjoyed this album analysis!!

[@theswiftologist]

it's gorgeous!!

[@heatherhensley9183]

So glad you dove into this! Love her Very heartfelt endeavor ❤

[@theswiftologist]

truly!!

[@scenepunk09]

When I first heard "yes and" I was not impressed but it grew on me after a few listens. So I gave the album a couple of listens to see if it would grow on me too and it did. I'm not sure if it's her best album but it has a certain subtle beauty and has been living rent free in my head for days 🎧

[@theswiftologist]

let it keep growing on you :)

[@streets_aheadd]

amazing vid, as always!! ur so incredibly well spoken and it's always a pleasure to hear ur thoughts. :) as a longtime ari fan, the refined maturity of the work def stood out to me too. (ALSO HER ENUNCIATION??? she's finally saying shit with her chesttt.) but this album was glittery melancholy. shimmeringly beautiful and easily her magnum opus.

[@theswiftologist]

the enunciation is not getting enough credit!! thank you for watching

[@hanfan26]

I've been listening to this album on repeat since it came out. Although I wish some of the notes were a little more belty instead of this airy tone, I understand why she did it. Her performance overall is sooo good.

[@AmetafJohora]

VERy much looking forward

[@Karuna_Rose]

I feel like we can't be friends is actually towards her fans/the public, the biting her tongue is being unable to speak on the affair rumors, the paper & pen is about how people are eating her up on social media and in blogs, and wait until you like me again is about regaining the public's behavior once everything dies down, and "I'm not what you made me" trying to explain that she isn't who the public thinks she is.

[@ivoryy.editss]

zach is just wanted to thank you sm for sharing your opinions and creating content. i’ve been really sick lately and evolution of a snake has helped me through every day so muchhhh!(i somehow listened to every episode in 2 weeks which may be slightly concerning loll) you just have such a radiant personality and are SO ARTICULATE with your thoughts and whatnot! i hope you have an amazing day💕💕💕

[@theswiftologist]

thank you for such a lovely comment!!

[@oopsididitagian2685]

I'm so excited to hear your thoughts on this!

[@aaronjohnzon]

We need a Melodrama Deep Dive sometime, please and thank you!

[@theswiftologist]

oh its coming

[@darraghcollins1374]

I heard Taylor doesn’t work with Max anymore because he demands writing credits even if he didn’t contribute to the song

[@theswiftologist]

that is a rumour

[@lynninfinite]

Part of me thinks she is very loyal to Jack and she probably feels like she doesn’t “need” Max anymore, like she’s too big now. But the songs she did with Max were great and good, I don’t know if she wants a BANGER anymore, but art.

[@tragicsimmer]

Your opinions about yes, and? are exactly mine! I was terrified for the album and I wouldn't have listened to the album at all if I was not interested in Ariana's work. I was positively surprised and relieved that the album was nothing like yes, and? lol

[@theswiftologist]

it was a great surprise!!

[@Gio-ut8tl]

I have never listened to a full ariana grande album and I was pleasantly surprised! The songs lean more into my type of music than her other singles like positions One thing I was thinking about was how True Story is a song that is supposed to be telling something, but I felt as if she wasn't really saying anything at all in detail And now seeing this video I understand it better that this was what she intended to do lol And note: you speak a little fast so I was happy I was able to keep up with (ESL)

[@theswiftologist]

true story is good :)

[@yelruhasil]

The eternal sunshine - supernatural - true story section of this the album is my fav ~ loved the review! ❤

[@warriordoghotdog]

i feel like going from eternal sunshine to supernatural kind of dulled down supernatural imo. i mean going from eternal sunshine with debatably the catchiest chorus of the album and such a golden amazing beautiful bridge to supernatural made supernatural doomed to be frowned upon. i also think supernatural ft troye is better than the original. true story though... dont even get me started i could write a whole essay on why true story is one of my favs from ari of all time

[@Marxnchill]

True story sounds like my childhood. I’m 33 so checks out with that max Martin production. I do wish her lyrics were better not gonna lie.

[@chicpoetique]

I’ve been obsessed w this album so I RAN when I saw this was uploaded omg

[@theswiftologist]

well I'm glad !!

[@tunO8]

help, it took me a minute to realize there was a dog chillin in the background what a profound analysis btw, i'm hooked!

[@burakpatan8453]

I first watched the video and then listened to the album, great experience tbh. Well structured analysis, Zach!

[@picoyap]

great video and analysis as ALWAYS!! u never fail to deliver 😝 its so hard to pick just 3 of my favourites but it has to be dont wanna break up again, supernatural and that boy is mine

[@quantumwitcher9376]

Its all ive been listening to non-stop

[@asdfghjkl7557]

The writing in this is so good. Great insight!

[@theswiftologist]

Thanks so much!

[@MsLexKnows]

Wow!! Amazing analysis of the new Ariana album! I’m a fan. ❤

[@theswiftologist]

thanks

[@ashleymc7959]

As a huge arianator I am happy with how much it seems Ariana contributed to the writing since it was done mostly by herself. Something that I’ve always looked to other artists like Olivia Rodrigo is for more emotional music since as you said Ariana tends to pull back from those feelings in order to push herself forward in healing and put out there things her fans can hear to feel better. Eternal Sunshine isn’t afraid to acknowledge the pain and sit with it. The production makes it feel like a dreamy void, perfect for the movie it takes inspiration from. I think that can also contribute to thinking that it is missing that fullness that Ariana gives with all her layering (like in REM and Shut up) it feels intentional and I appreciate it. I will say something I think her other albums had was more variety from song to song. And I say this as a positions fan since that’s a criticism often given to the album (all the songs sound the same). But I don’t think that all the singles (except for we can’t be friends) really compare to those that came before it. Which to me is a telling sign that there was something missing. I think most of the songs makes more sense within the album instead of listening to one song I just listen to the whole album, which is not a bad thing but it’s different from her other work in that way. I don’t think it’s her best album I still think DW or sweetener takes that spot but it’s in the top three of her discography. I think as a fan it’s a bittersweet thing to not get as much music from her as before, but her relationship to the public and her management has changed so I am happy cause I know it’s better for her.

[@theswiftologist]

the evolution of her writing and production skills is really impressive

[@michellesassouni2863]

The best way to make everyone forget about a scandal, enlist Max Martin and make bangers. Also the best way to make art is when you feel that you have nothing to lose. This is truly her best work and album of the year in my opinion (but I’m also okay with Beyoncé winning)

[@lquidore]

Usually watch on TikTok but huge Ariana fan so had to come to KZbin. Great video! My top 3 are 1. Eternal sunshine 2. We can’t be friends 3. Don’t wanna break up again

[@julial4569]

I was very touched by "we can't be friends" video, but I think it's more of an homage to her fans, if you listen to lyrics and think about it, it makes a lot of sense

[@lynninfinite]

It makes a lot of sense for me as a letter to the media, just another take

[@guac7323]

My top 3, without a doubt: Eternal Sunshine I don’t wanna break up again Supernatural

[@morganfortier7929]

From the first moments I listened to the album, I could not wait to hear your take! Such a pleasantly substantive surprise from Ariana

[@spellhex6213]

I WAS READY FOR THE GRANDEOLOGIST!!! NOW THIS IS GIVING ARIANY AND ARIANKA!!!!

[@idamaeology]

Queen Gertrude in the background ❤️🫶🏻

[@ufcia20]

Omg taking it all back to Arianka, I died 😂 But in all seriousness, I’ve never related to Ari’s music for basically the same reason (I like music and lyrics to be deeper and more confessional). But this album caught me by a complete surprise! I have it on repeat for the last couple of days - WOW. Good for you girl 👏🏻 Top 3 sooo hard but def 1. we can’t be friends 2. i wish I hated you 3. supernatural (both versions, Troye slayed)

[@hassanmansour9857]

Omfg I can't wait to hear your brilliant thoughts on this album which made me much more of an Ariana fan than I was expecting, especially after the misleading choice of yes and as a lead single. I've always wanted a personal body of work from her that feels like a story from start to finish and she's getting there with this album. I can safely say this album made me see Ariana in new lens as an artist more than just a pop star. This seems like a new chapter in her career and artistry and I feel like she will only be going UP from here and evolving more and more into the artist she's meant to be, can't wait to see more of what she has in store for the next years.

[@monoinluv4894]

REAL!!! I love ES ❤ my top 3: - the boy is mine - eternal sunshine - wait for your love

[@colekayve]

The way i was waiting for the live to end so I can watch this video

[@darkarcmiley3388]

to this day, I still cry when I watch the WCBF music video. It's so heartbreaking and beautiful.

[@homidjohn]

omfg the *RENAISSANCE* film poster is so real of you Zach 🫶

[@BlueMoon-io9eh]

19:05 I feel the exact same way about the line "but at least I look this good" I was worried at first when I heard that Ariana wrote 10/13 tracks all by herself. I wish she would have ran her lyrics by experienced songwriters & let them help her polish them up. But I gotta respect that she wanted to do it on her own. However, the production & vocals on this album really does make up for the, at times, lazy writing. If there is a sister album for ES in the works, I hope she takes her ideas to experienced songwriters.

[@theswiftologist]

it would be awesome to hear a sister record!

[@BlueMoon-io9eh]

​@@theswiftologistThere's no official word on it yet, but Imperfect For You makes me think that there's A LOT that she wants to clear up about her new relationship.

[@jabbygurl]

I knew as soon as I played the intro to this album that I was gonna love it. My fav song is Eternal Sunshine.

[@theswiftologist]

excellent taste!!

[@allymm62]

Mannnnn I’ve been waiting for you to talk about this album. THANK YOU FOR NEVER MISSING ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@theswiftologist]

tysm for watching!!

[@sarahandah9045]

My top 3: 1. Supernatural 2. Bye 3. Intro (end of the world) As someone who honestly was mad at her for what she did, hearing her thoughts in the opening track immediately softened me. It stuck with me in a weirdly special way

[@lynninfinite]

THE BOY IS MIIII I IIIII II IIIINE, love that song. Can’t believe it’s about SpongeBob. Artists are not to be understood!! Thnx Ari for all the bops.

[@britthunt5707]

The song "we can't be friends" (wait for your love) lyrics give the impression of a double meaning, on the surface it seems to be about trouble in her romantic relationship, but what it seems to really be about is her relationship with her fans, or more accurately, about her fans that have criticized her for getting involved with a married man with a baby. Specifically the line "i know that you made me, but I don't like how you paint me" and "i'll wait til you like me again", and "I'll wait for your love" make me think it is specifically about her fans that have turned on her and became her critics, Am I reaching or does anyone else interpret it that way?

[@angellombness4371]

Going to listen to Ari ... I wasn't going to. Appreciate this!

[@theswiftologist]

check it out, you won't regret!!

[@CatianaKeys]

I must admit I have been not been subscribed until now, will rectify this immediately. Sincere apologies lol 'That Boy Is Mine' will be played daily until my ears bleed, 'we can’t be friends' and 'imperfect for you' round up my Top 3.