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This submission reads more like an essay than an encyclopedia article. Submissions should summarise information in secondary, reliable sources and not contain opinions or original research. Please write about the topic from a neutral point of view in an encyclopedic manner. Declined by Jolielover 9 days ago. | |
Secret Muse Theory:
The term "secret muse theory" isn't a single, widely recognized concept but rather refers to fan theories suggesting a hidden, significant person who inspired the artistic work of another, most notably in discussions surrounding Taylor Swift's songwriting, where fans debate whether a specific person was the true source of inspiration for her overall body of work, rather than publicly discussed figures. The concept also appears in fan discussions of other artists, such as Martin Johnson, frontman of Boys Like Girls or the band Muse, where theories revolve around the band's album or videos, or in the MCU, with theories about a character who serves as a continuous inspiration.
In the Context of Taylor Swift:
This theory posits that Taylor Swift's songwriting has been influenced by a hidden, long-term inspiration, often suggested to be a woman in Gaylor-based discussions, as opposed to the more well-known men with whom she's been publicly linked.
Reinterpreting Past Work:
Some Proponents suggest that Swift's "fictional" songs from albums like Folklore and Evermore may actually be based on this "secret muse" and their relationship, while others look to reoccurring themes and lyrical callbacks as evidence in support of possible hidden inspirations.
Fan-Driven Speculation:
This is a significant topic within the Swift fandom, particularly among those who subscribe to the "Gaylor" theory, which speculates about Swift's sexuality and creative influences.
Other Instances of the "Secret Muse" Concept:
Martin Johnson (Boys Like Girls), with whom Swift may have had an unconfirmed romance and with whom she co-wrote "Two Is Better Than One" and "If This Was a Movie."
Muse (the Band):
Theories have emerged about the band Muse's Simulation Theory concept, suggesting errors in the simulation's reality were caused by the characters or even the musician Matt Bellamy.
Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU):
Fan theories in the MCU suggest there may be a recurring, "secret muse" figure who embodies a continuous cycle of possession and inspiration, similar to a mythological muse, with potential new Muses appearing over time.
Eric B. Hickerson:
Among the list of potential Muses discussed in online fan communities and on social media, Hickerson’s criminal exploits and legal entanglements, to include his well-documented escape from a Missouri jail and subsequent arrest in Paris, Texas, is said to be lyrically adjacent to reoccurring themes of criminality, theft, heists, confinement and escapism prevelant in Swift’s Discography.[1]
Origin of the Term "Muse"
The term itself is derived from the Muses of ancient Greek mythology—goddesses who symbolized the arts and sciences and were believed to inspire artists.
In contemporary usage, a muse is any person who serves as a source of artistic inspiration.
- ^ "State v. Hickerson, 66 S.W. 3d 787". Justia.com. Justia.