PA MediaTaylor Swift will be referenced in the future in the same way people reference classic texts, according to the president of a university society dedicated to her.
Orla Keogh, of the University of Birmingham’s Taylor Swift Society, said the country singer turned pop megastar often referenced classic literature in some of her music.
“She’s kind of known for her pop songs, but they actually go a lot deeper than that and I think she can even be compared to some of [the] great poets,” Ms Keogh said.
Swift is the most-streamed music artist of all time, and her Eras tour was the most successful world tour of all time.
Last year she was voted the fifth most powerful woman in the world by Forbes magazine.
A special event, held at the university on Wednesday evening, saw academics come together to discuss the popstar’s influence and cultural contribution.
Sarah Montano, professor of retail marketing at the university, said it was important to consider not only the economic power Swift had, but also her social influence – such as her endorsement of Kamala Harris in the US presidential race.
“People listen to her, but she’s not immune from criticism either,” Prof Montano said.
“So even being the fifth most powerful woman, she’s still critiqued when she puts these statements out online and also when she takes on the music industry.
“What is so unique about this event tonight is we’re able to, as a group of social scientists, really explore what does it mean to be a modern icon and what does that say about society today.”
ReutersDuring the event, dozens of fans – known as ‘Swifties’ – made bracelets.
One attendee, Phoebe Hurst, said the concept of making bracelets had originated from the lyrics in one of Swift’s songs.
Concert-goers have since taken to exchanging the bracelets with each other.
“It’s a big community thing, and a way to make friends and just go up and talk to people at the concerts,” explained Ms Hurst.
The event in Birmingham also included talks, as well as music performances dedicated to Swift.