In “Midnights,” Swift is a mastermind

By Maya Wong

From the color of her clothes to the subtle references to past songs, everything that Taylor Swift posts or releases seems to be carefully calculated; her fans have certainly caught on. Hidden messages or secrets, called easter eggs, are plentiful in Swift’s media. Swifties are on the hunt.

Swift’s latest album, “Midnights,” holds no shortage of encoded messages—neither did the release process. Swift announced the new album at this year’s MTV Music Video Awards, donning a dress of Swarovski jewels reminiscent of the dress she wore 13 years ago, when Kanye West infamously interrupted her acceptance speech at the same awards ceremony in 2009. But now, instead of being embarrassed, Swift is empowered.

As Swift’s tenth studio album, “Midnights” captures the highs and lows of a sleepless night. Described by Swift, the songs are “a journey through terrors and sweet dreams.” Here, the most quiet and intimate part with the world.

With “Midnights,” Swift leaves the indie-folk genre of her previous two releases, “Folklore” and “Evermore,” to return to the catchy pop that name. Released on Oct. 21, the concept album experiments with electronica and synthpop, creating a dream-like aura. Consisting of 13 songs and 10 bonus tracks (including both “3 a.m.’’ and “Lavender Edition”), “Midnights” is deeply personal and reminiscent. Swift’s masterful lyricism paints her experiences vividly, while allowing listeners to relate to their own lives.

Swift’s voice is as polished and robust as ever: she