In a fascinating twist of genealogical fate, Taylor Swift, the chart-topping sensation known for her lyrical prowess, has uncovered a surprising familial tie to none other than the legendary poet Emily Dickinson.
According to reports from TODAY, the renowned genealogy company Ancestry has revealed that Swift and Dickinson share a familial bond as sixth cousins, three times removed.
The connection between the "Karma" singer and the prolific 19th-century poet traces back to a 17th-century English immigrant who settled in Windsor, Connecticut. Swift's 9th great-grandfather and Dickinson's 6th great-grandfather were early settlers in the area, forging a link between the two iconic figures.
Swift's ancestral lineage remained rooted in Connecticut for six generations before eventually migrating to northwestern Pennsylvania, where they intersected with the Swift family line.
This newfound connection adds an intriguing layer to Swift's upcoming album, aptly titled "The Tortured Poets Department," slated for release on April 19. The album announcement came during Swift's acceptance speech at the 2024 Grammys, where she clinched the award for best pop vocal album for her 2022 release, "Midnights."
Fans have long speculated about Swift's affinity for Dickinson, with references to the poet peppered throughout her work. In a nod to Dickinson's influence, Swift once quipped during an acceptance speech in 2022 that her songwriting could be likened to "a letter written by Emily Dickinson's great-grandmother while sewing a lace curtain," playfully dubbing her style as "Quill genre."
Moreover, Swift's ninth studio album, "Evermore," released on December 10, 2020, coincided with Dickinson's birthday and featured thematic parallels to the poet's works. The album's title itself nods to a line from Dickinson's poem "One Sister have I in Our House," encapsulating Swift's admiration for the literary giant.
In a recent revelation, Swift disclosed several versions of "The Tortured Poets Department," with the final edition unveiled during her Eras Tour show in Singapore. The bonus track for this ultimate iteration, titled "The Black Dog," promises to captivate audiences with its poignant melodies and introspective lyrics.
As Swift reveals more about her music journey, her new family tie to Emily Dickinson adds depth. It solidifies her status as an icon blending with literary history.