Music and lyrics
The song contains an interpolation of Michael's song in the form of a re-recorded melody and lyric. As a result, Michael is credited as a co-writer on the track. [5] Following its release, two primary interpretations of the song's subject emerged among listeners and critics. One suggests the lyrics reference Swift's early career and her business relationship with Borchetta, including the subsequent sale of her master recordings to Scooter Braun. [6] The other posits that the song addresses a rumored feud with singer Olivia Rodrigo, alluding to a dispute over songwriting credits. [7]
In an interview with Jimmy Fallon, Swift stated the song depicted a mentor–protégé relationship, and was written from the perspective of the mentor. She stated that she related to the protégé character in the song, despite the song being from the perspective of the "father figure". [8]
While Michael's song was about intimacy and protection, Swift's is mainly about revenge and betrayal, alluding to her masters dispute. Lyrics like "When I found you, you were young" reference her initial signing with Big Machine. [1] Lyrics like “I can make deals with the devil 'cause my dick's bigger" and "This love is pure profit" reference how Big Machine used Swift as a major source of profit after her initial success. [9] Furthermore, the song alludes to Swift re-gaining her masters by lyrics like "This empire belongs to me", with "empire" referencing her first six albums. [2]
