Roland Barthes

French · 20th century

French literary critic, philosopher, and essayist, best known for 'The Death of the Author' (1967), which argues that a text's meaning lies in its destination (the reader) rather than its origin (the author).

Connection to Taylor Swift

Provides the theoretical framework Uncle Jerry uses for interpreting Taylor's lyrics, arguing that once Taylor releases a song, it belongs to the listener to interpret. Connects to The Manuscript's closing line 'and the story isn't mine anymore.'

Notable Works

• The Death of the Author, Mythologies, S/Z, Camera Lucida