Taylor Swift’s “Cruel Summer” was initially released with the “Lover” album in 2019.

What did Taylor Swift say about the meaning of ‘Cruel Summer’?

Swift did a Secret Session withiHeartRadioas well and spoke about the meaning behind each song.

Taylor Swift accepting award

She sings that yearning with, “What doesn’t kill me makes me want you more.”

What other song about Joe Alwyn connects to ‘Cruel Summer’?

This implies Swift and Joe Alwyn agreed not to make their relationship serious.

Taylor Swift and Joe Alwyn

However, Swift can’t keep it casual anymore.

This is solidified in the iconic bridge when Swift sobs in the car and lies about being okay.

That could also mean Swift wants to stop hiding her true affection for Alwyn.