Emotional Reaction to | TAYLOR SWIFT | "This is Me Trying"

[@Rosabellajoy]

“I was so ahead of the curve, the curve became a sphere” is my all time favorite lyric penned by Taylor. It’s so effortlessly Taylor and it’s so relatable to me personally. That entire second verse is perfection within a song that is also perfection. Love this song so much and you did it justice ❤

[@nickforell1]

Thank you so much Elizabeth =) It's lines like those with immortalize songs. True poetry.

[@writeonshell]

It's such a strong lyric. It hit as hard for me as "in pretty sure I'm worthless if I can't be of service" from Encanto. Those two lines just sum me up in a handful of words.

[@starshinedragonsong3045]

Same

[@JosannaMonik]

I think all the hate on Taylor is just and indication of the misogyny of our culture. Let's face it; we'll say anything to put a woman down; she's not sexy enough, she's too provocative, etc. Taylor Swift is absolutely brilliant.

[@TheCrismolina]

I always interpret this song as if it was a letter to oneself. To our child-selves. It’s therapeutic.

[@raybernier6851]

Twenty years ago a had a mental breakdown. Started with a psychotic break that morphed into schizophrenia like symptoms, taking ten years to fully resolve. Wrote a book about it and in my preface I state that my heroes are those with schizophrenia who choose to continue living with those horrible symptoms.

[@twilight79010]

The line "it's hard to be at a party when you feel like an open wound" is the one that gets to me the most. It's so relatable. So many of us know exactly how it feels to try to do normal things like go to a party or go to work when you feel so broken, trying to hide your vulnerability so that others don't notice.

[@MS-bs8dd]

Done that many times. She speaks to the vacant eyes, how it can look from the outside (sometimes)

[@sarinasoren7818]

This interview/song saved my life, I was ready to burn my whole life down, drive off that cliff, but I remembered this song and I turned around and went home. The power of words and music helping save me from catastrophic levels of self-destruction

[@bfly5990]

I’m so glad you came back. ❤

[@heathercochrane2207]

The first part always gets me, the idea of this person thinking of ending it all, but deciding to go back home. "I didn't know if you'd care if I came back....I have a lot of regrets about that".

[@carla_3067]

regarding the line " all my cages were mental", i relate to it when people say" it's all in your head. you're good. you just need to get over it. everything will be fine if you don't think about it". but you can't because it's not like that. and because you feel frustrated that you can't just get over something, you find other ways to escape by drinking or doing other things which in turn just bury you more.

[@musicfangirl7403]

Sometimes I’m not sure which I love more…this song or Taylor and Jack’s conversation before the song. It resonates every single time.

[@nickforell1]

Jack was really well spoken. Definitely glad Taylor’s got a producer and friend like him

[@heatherkingston1445]

This song always makes me cry because it reminds me of my baby girl and her mental health struggles in high school, especially that second verse. Every day, I am so grateful that she was trying instead of giving up.

[@michellemadison2539]

Not a psych nurse analyzing the song I project on most. I've talked about how much the line " pouring out my heart to a stranger but I didn't pour the whiskey" means to me in therapy ❤ because that's me literally doing that. This song is everything

[@nickforell1]

It’s an incredible song. This one is timeless.

[@tired.....247]

What does this line mean ?

[@jeannefostergoriot6804]

@@tired.....247 as Taylor said, the verse is about addiction, so, here, it's someone who's trying to get out of alcohol addiction, and they confide themselves to a total stranger, telling the stranger everything, and while doing that, they try everything not to serve a whisky glass, they try not to drink

[@siennabeaton9292]

one of my all time favourite songs by her. It is actually lyrically perfect and so bloody relatable, she is a lyrical and songwriting mastermind. No one is like her.

[@nickforell1]

Hi Sienna, I also love the format of these pond studio sessions. Such a nice way to learn more about the origin of a song.

[@kathieovercash8414]

@@nickforell1 best harmonies you will ever find are the three brothers Gibb. Too Much Heaven by Bee Gees. Prepare to be blown away.

[@siennabeaton9292]

@@nickforell1 I completely agree. She’s such a deep real person and you can see it with these sessions

[@alisong826]

Shout out to you and your whole psych nurse team! I was a case worker on a psych icu and it was HARD! All y’all psych nurses are the true heroes! 🎉

[@nickforell1]

Aw thank you Alison! That means a lot to me. Thanks for your work too

[@colleenkensey2580]

Psych ICU?! I didn't know there was such a thing! Where was it? Just the other day I was telling someone that psych ICU would be my dream job!

[@mjphan661]

I’m a psych nurse and it’s heartbreaking to see this population trying to overcome their illness and not having the support system to help them.

[@topher2113]

My favorite song from Folklore. I feel like this song is the perfect way to explain to people how hard it is to just keep living when struggling with mental illness or addiction. I've struggled with mental health most of my life and fought with an ED in college. This song says everything I've felt when people ask me "what's wrong with you, why cant you be better". Just because I'm not where you think I should be, doesn't mean I'm not trying my hardest. When she sings "at least I'm trying" it sounds so desperate and pleading for someone to notice. Another one of her tracks that brought tears on the first listen but at the same time made me feel seen & understood. Something Taylor is so very good at with her lyrics.

[@isabellezversion]

yes omg yes

[@HeffaSwift]

I actually was worried about schizophrenia for a little bit, I took care of it all myself by being honest about the good and bad of the afterlife. Mental health is tough and ive always looked at it as killing inner demons. I just want to help anyone who struggles with mental health for so many reasons. Btw i actually dont drink...used to when i was too young. But others dont frown upon drinking as they do other things so i chose to use drinking to be a more relateable song.

[@Seasidebagel]

I couldn’t even comment when I watched this 2 days ago, I had such an intense breakdown after hearing Taylor and Jack discussing this. Their words and this song are very impactful

[@nickforell1]

I’m sorry HB, I hope you’re okay. Let me know if you need anything

[@madwoman_at.thelakes]

This is one of a few Taylor songs that address mental health, but this is the only one that does so this directly and from the afflicted person's perspective. Champagne Problems alludes to the young woman having mental health struggles; Forever Winter is from Taylor's perspective as a friend desperate to help her friend escape his depression and addiction; and Renegade is from the perspective of a partner trying to cope with loving someone with mental health struggles.

[@nickforell1]

Forever winter sounds like a must listen then as well. I’ll get to it in time :) thank you 😊

[@Violet316]

Taylor had a friend that committed suicide, she wrote a song about it when she wrote Red but it didn't get put on the album, so when she re-record Red, she added it to the vault tracklist, it is called "Forever Winter". So whenever you think you want to listen to it or react, is fine. I am sure that a lot of people are coming from all sides, and I am sure they want their request and want them now, just make a schedule, figure out a slot for your Taylor Swift journey, and then add the others as they come. I have noticed on other reactors channels people are very demanding and not even asking politely, and I wonder why they can't use that one word "please".

[@deannatyler880]

In tears before the music has started. I struggle everyday with bpd but stronger everyday. Thanks for this reaction. ❤

[@nickforell1]

Aw well I hope they were good tears!

[@bridgetwhite6803]

I was at the 2nd night of her Eras tour and was lucky enough to get a floor seat right by the end of the catwalk where she always performs her surprise songs, and this was the song she performed on guitar, just feet away from me. Brought tears to my eyes 😢

[@soulfireonfire6423]

It just did the same to me!! Thinking about my brother! I don’t think people realize how deep the grooves are for people struggling ! If your struggling with addiction, it’s not just a single facet issue! It’s what made you reach for something to alter how you were feeling and dealing with the physical withdrawals! People need love, tough love but with both empathy and compassion for those struggling. 99% never volunteered for what led them to their addictions /mental health struggles . It’s like being dealt the crappiest hand in a card game, that you never were asked if you wanted to play . The one that dealt you in takes no responsibility leaves with their winnings of having the ability to truly not give a shxt and took the dec with them. But your still left with the losing hand with no options to shuffle and get a better hand , because the dec is gone . So you have to build a new deck with a better foundation! One that can’t be moved so easily ! A different kind of deck!!

[@mythics102]

this song is so incredible, it hits me hard every time. I really like what you said about this song doesn’t end with a trivial message of hope, and rather just stays focused on that struggle. the line “it’s hard to be at a party when I feel like an open wound” perfectly encapsulates social anxiety - Taylor really never ceases to amaze me!

[@mamat8184]

I adore this album; I find it so moving. It certainly deserves all the accolades it receives, as well as its sister album, Evermore. Thank you for returning to Folklore. This song is an excellent example of why Folklore means so much to so many. Continuing to enjoy your vids and really appreciate your educated incite into "This is me Trying." Wishing you increasing success with your channel. Beautiful job❤

[@nickforell1]

Thank you Mama =) Good to see you again. I always enjoy your comments. I'm glad I'm back to folklore too. Definitely want to finish it up and then check out Evermore because I know theres amazing music awaiting me!

[@tobiaskretschmer6715]

Great reaction to one of my absolute faves of the album. Thank you!

[@mwoods8988]

Excellent choice in reacting to the studio sessions. It's topic is right up your professional alley, so it's a good song for returning to Folklore and I liked that you gave your take on their conversation. 👍 I (always) hope you have a great week! 😊

[@nickforell1]

I really appreciate you taking the time to comment. Thank you so much, Taylor is a true force. I hope you have a great week as well (always)!

[@Isamarae]

No one mentioned Peace! So glad you got to it! I know what my next video is

[@bon3999]

as someone who has been recovering from mental health struggles (somewhat a type of addiction) this song is a beautiful and true message, and both taylor's lyrics and your commentry were really soothing to hear!

[@nickforell1]

Thank you so much Bonnie and my best wishes to you. This song is indeed very soothing and an important message for her to spread!

[@calamityjane9104]

This song hits hard for me. I've struggled with mental illness since high school (over 30 years), but it almost took me down when I got cancer. It's been a long hard road, but my medications help level out the intense bipolar reactions. Years of counseling saved my life. I was inpatient 4 times. It only takes a tiny moment of hopelessness to do something tragic. I fight that feeling every day while using the tools I learned through therapy. I never met anyone during my stays that talked and cared like you do. It melts my heart. I subscribed not just for the songs but for your insight as well. 🫶

[@ashtonreads]

Kudos to you for being a psych nurse! I interned as a social worker in an acute inpatient psych hospital in grad school and it was a tough environment, but also incredibly rewarding at times.

[@nickforell1]

Thank you for that Ashton, it’s tough work but I’m grateful for what you do as well!

[@ellieandthetorts]

Missed the start of the premiere but GOOD LUCK FELLA!! On a non folklore/evermore track I would love to get your view on a track of hers from the Red vault called Forever Winter. Its about a close friend of hers who died aged 21 from an OD after struggling with severe mental health issues. It was written around the time he died, but not included on original album. Its very much a precursor to this song (even though technically recorded around the time of folklore).

[@nickforell1]

Hi Ellie! I hope you are well =) Loving this album so I am really glad to get back to it. Okay, I will keep it on my list of suggestions! I'm chipping away at them so give me some time!

[@ZoeBentz]

Just found your Taylor swift reactions today and I’m a big Taylor fan and I love your videos! I’m a new grad nurse and when you said you were a nurse I was like well now it makes sense why I like your videos so much lol

[@Andonapansonkey]

This song is not directly related to the love triangle in folklore but some people think that the narrator can be James because of the lyrics “and it’s hard to be at a party when i feel like an open wound”. In the song “Betty”, the narrator james sings “but if i just showed up at your party would you have me would you want me..”. I really like these little details hidden in her songs.

[@nickforell1]

Yes Dicle. Thank you for sharing that insight! She leaves morsels in a lot of her songs

[@jahanvigoel6810]

i am a swiftie who is a psych major too and i appreciate you a lot for choosing to be in this field, it’s not easy and it’s under appreciated but just the hope that you can help even a single person live their life deal with their issues is worth it ❤️ and this song is so so close to me all of us have our own fair share of demons and disorders but no one constantly tries to be there for you as much as those in the field do 👍🏻 I hope you have a happy life and best of luck for the rest of your journey

[@elizabethhurley1129]

While I am not a big fan of Taylor as a singer, I am a huge fan of Taylor as a human. I think she is a phenomenal human being, and she puts a lot of positivity and decency out into the world.

[@nickforell1]

She has had a huge impact on so many people. Glad to be catching up on why

[@elizabethhurley1129]

@Nick Forell I agree - it's one of the reasons I admire her so much. I enjoyed your perspective. More people should do what you're doing.

[@Ciph3rN1N3]

You sound like my Gf. I'm slowly converting her.

[@jhariette]

Yup better than people who just randomly shoots and kill people!

[@darlenejusayan2674]

Such a good lyricist as ever, Taylor Swift.

[@colleenkensey2580]

Thanks for making this video! Your experience as a psych nurse brings a unique perspective that helps highlight the importance of mental health awareness and acceptance. This song is so powerful and is possibly my favorite TS song.

[@nickforell1]

Thank you Colleen, I appreciate that. Taylor has a way with words!

[@haley5805]

Your reactions are everything, I love how hard you've worked to understand her lyrics, her backstory, and her fans. I'm also a new Taylor listener and have been learning more through you!

[@nickforell1]

Haley, that’s such a nice thing to hear. Made my day :) I’m really glad I’m not completely botching it all haha. Thank you!

[@missowl4981]

I just found your channel and I love you already❤

[@edmanuelsantiago7907]

Wao! Ive heard this song since 2020 and is the first time that I hear that take. She didn’t pour the whisky and that’s trying. I’ve always thought of the bartender that u tell ur problems and they pour u alcohol. Your pov changes my perspective. One of my faves on folklore

[@eddycastello6307]

This was one song I wanted to hear live at her show because I know I'd be a crying mess, this song is just so well done ♡

[@nickforell1]

It's truly incredible Eddy

[@Tal_reputation]

Oh yay. was waiting for this performance! love how Taylor explain it

[@nickforell1]

Yes, the segment with Taylor and Aaron is really touching. This format is so top notch!

[@minna22]

@@nickforell1 She’s talking with Jack Antonoff in this segment, not Aaron.

[@nickforell1]

@@minna22 thank you for the correction

[@chelcbarnett]

"They told me all of my cages were mental" to me is they are telling the narrator it's all in their heads, that they are making their own cages up so it's their problem. Which sums up a lot of peoplws attitude towards mental illness & addiction.

[@CelinaSharp]

I love this song and album. Folklore album literally helped me through a dark time in my life, and for that this album and Taylor will always have a special place in my ❤

[@nickforell1]

Hi Celina, it was a very strange time in life. I can only imagine how nice this album would have been to have during those years. Thank you!

[@dariadaniellemusic]

Wow, just finished bingeing all your Taylor videos (and a few about other music) and it's been a journey LOL. Keep up the good work!

[@nickforell1]

Thank you so much Daria! That’s commitment haha

[@carinebertolino]

This song means so much for me bc I'm fighting with addiction. I've been to a lot medical places and then i left, and then I came to the same place. But I'm trying, fighting. The most successful thing that I do is sleeping all the time so i cannot drink or smoke (only cigarettes). I celebrate those days but I also know that i missed those days, doing something for me. But... At least I'm trying...

[@nickforell1]

Hi Carine, thank you for sharing. It’s so amazing that you are fighting. Don’t forget that every day you try is a successful day

[@oiergarciaaoiz7195]

BEST song on folklore and top 5 of her BEST ever

[@lisahodges9489]

I can tell this one hit you right in the heart. Beautiful song. 💕

[@nickforell1]

It really did Lisa. Taylor delivered

[@amsaric]

in my experience psych nurses are the most incredible people and the true heroes of the hospital. and i say this as an inpatient and outpatient for years.

[@nickforell1]

Aw thank you so much, that means a lot. I appreciate you sharing. ❤️

[@MysteryWillow.2013]

I love that your personal life and how you are essentially in the thick of it. Being a Psych nurse there is so much that you must witness on a daily basis. With that being said did hearing Taylors explanation of the song and the song help you in anyway with how you approach situations at you job?

[@nickforell1]

I haven't had a chance to approach anything differently yet as I just heard the song a couple days ago, but definitely just taking time to remind yourself that theres a real person sitting across from you. One that many people write off.

[@mcneleon]

This is my favorite song off of Folklore. It's so good and relatable.

[@nickforell1]

Totally agree. In love with the lyrics

[@isabellezversion]

she’s a genious. nothing much but that

[@noahpierson6437]

this helps with my mental health

[@clashwithhannah5434]

I GOT AN ALCOHOL AD RIGHT BEFORE THE SONG STARTED 💀💀💀

[@clashwithhannah5434]

WHAT EVEN LIKE I..

[@nickforell1]

I can’t hahaha

[@SusanGray-et1mp]

Stunningly song….I’m getting a this is me trying tattoo up my arm next week I’ve been struggling through SO MUCH CRAP for the last decade. Getting divorced again and I need people to understand that life is hard and I’m trying my best

[@imeldasujely2114]

This is the song I play when I want to sit sad in the shower

[@nickforell1]

It’s a nice place to reflect!

[@saviiiii_30]

Love your reaction❤💚💙

[@nickforell1]

Thank you so so much SAVI

[@HeffaSwift]

I regularly use marijuana and doc says thats ok. But as I get myself out of this vault all my truths will come out. I did things a little backwards to earn respect of others and help them understand the troubles and triumphs of others. Im a rare empath and this is the only way for me to help others understand how strongly I feel as an empath

[@markbarnwell942]

This is the song that really hit me hard. So mirrors different moments in my life in a crazy way. So fng good

[@mwoods8988]

Nick, you've got a very difficult job! It's bad enough that hospitals in general are having to deal with more and more unruly patients and visitors. Psych must be more stressful, although maybe you're more prepared for difficult encounters. 🤔 Stay safe! (We need future Taylor Swift reaction videos! 😂)

[@nickforell1]

Haha thank you M. I really appreciate your support. It has its ups and downs but its important work! I'll stay safe :)

[@agvicster]

This is hands down my favorite track from Folklore 🙌

[@nickforell1]

It's such a heartfelt track. Loved every second of it!

[@Ciph3rN1N3]

One of my favorite song on folklore

[@nickforell1]

It’s fantastic James

[@MasterRahl221]

I love your thoughts and perspective. On a technical note, can you try to balance the volume of the song compared to your mic better? It's hard to hear you so I turn it up then get blown away by the song.

[@nyima04011]

Just saw a meme with a photo of Robert Downey Jr and a caption "My super power is staying sober".

[@rosemclaughlin3179]

This is me every day, I’m bi polar depressed

[@kathieovercash8414]

You love harmonies and you haven't reacted to the very best harmonies ever on the planet. Too Much Heaven by Bee Gees. Please react asap. You are absolutely going to be blown away.

[@nickforell1]

Thank you Kathie! Okay, great suggestion

[@frozenphoenix3725]

OMG 😳 she's wearing purple 💜 = Speak Now 😂

[@Violet316]

Great reaction and thank you for reacting, you are doing so much better about how often you pause and analyze. I also, want to say that your job must be hard mentally, I could tell when certain lyrics hit you that it was something in your line of work that you are familiar with. I am sure I could not do what you do, so take care of yourself.

[@nickforell1]

Aw Violet that means a lot to me. Thank you so so much. Taylor did such a great job breaking this one down ❤️

[@tzking7640]

Looking forward to" forever winter " reaction

[@MariaJose_9]

❤

[@Ashley-lz9jh]

Honestly I don’t much like the melody to this song. But the lyrics destroy me every time, so I listen to it anyways lol. So good watching people react to this one, glad you found it impactful too

[@nickforell1]

Thank you Ashley, I really did enjoy it. Thought it hit on an important message

[@coffofcuppee]

This is me trying, what more is there? 💖

[@terifarmer5066]

Taylor has NOT got a clue, about the real world, people that have lost their lives, things, people who live with Deep depression, *PTSD* if only school was the ONLY issue, i could say much much more, Godspeed those in need. may God pull (rise) you up??! 🙏

[@rudyl4341]

“Regretted by everyone who does it” that might be the most ridiculous things I’ve ever heard. How many people dead by suicide have you talked to? Bro, that’s so irresponsible. People who have tried ✋🏽just don’t want to be here. The end.

[@theminerafter21]

not related to taylor but if you arent wearing makeup you need to drop your skincare routine rn

[@AdrianaCMillanR]

At least your trying🎵 to get back to folklore 😊

[@nickforell1]

Adriana, I’m definitely loving it! Just going at my own pace. Appreciate you :)

[@niky9226]

😍😊❤

[@nickforell1]

❤️❤️❤️

[@leijetteriopel8570]

This is a minor complaint, but every time you refer to the material you’re reacting to incorrectly it just bugs me. The footage you’re watching is not from “The Pond Studio Sessions”. The place this was filmed is Long Pond Studio in New York, which is Aaron Dessner’s recording studio, so you are watching “Folklore: The Long Pond Studio Sessions”. Because it was recorded at a place called Long Pond Studio. They are NOT long sessions recorded at a place called Pond Studio, which is I think what how you are interpreting the title. Not a huge deal, but it would be nice to hear it referenced correctly, because the repeated error keeps taking me out of watching your videos.

[@nickforell1]

Sorry you feel this way. I will do better next time I record. I do these in my spare time as a hobby.

[@MrJaysjem]

Letting Nick know the correct title is fine, but you didn't have to make it about you and feeling personally bugged by it. There's a way to convey a message in a positive way, especially as you said, it's not a huge deal. Food for thought when giving constructive criticism.