Taylor Swift's new album, "The Life of a Showgirl," is generating a lot of buzz...and debate. From the themes of love, vulnerability, and empowerment to thinly veiled metaphors that reference her fiancé Travis Kelce's genitals, fans are either celebrating or slamming the songs. The critics' reviews are also mixed. Rolling Stone's Maya Georgi gave it five out of five stars, writing, "the musician shoots into a fresh echelon of superstardom — and hits all her marks." Meanwhile, writing for the Atlantic, Spencer Kornhaber called the album a "charmless chore." Swift says she "welcomes the chaos." Despite the haters, the pop sensation is breaking records: "Showgirl" has already sold more than four million copies, surpassing a record previously held by Adele. What do local songwriters and local Swifties think? Is a heartbroken artist a better songwriter than a happy one or vice versa? Does it matter? We discuss it all with our guests.

In studio:

---

Connections is supported by listeners like you. Head to our donation page to become a WXXI member today, support the show, and help us close the gap created by the rescission of federal funding.

---

Connections airs every weekday from noon-2 p.m. Join the conversation with questions or comments by phone at 1-844-295-TALK (8255) or 585-263-9994, email, Facebook or Twitter. 

Connections is also livestreamed on the WXXI News YouTube channel each day. You can watch live or access previous episodes here.

---

Do you have a story that needs to be shared? Pitch your story to Connections.