October’s book releases are tackling some of the most pressing and thought-provoking issues of our time—and trust me, you won’t want to miss them. From Taylor Swift’s meteoric rise to the digital addiction crisis and the unique struggles of Black LGBTQ+ artists, these books are here to challenge, inspire, and spark conversation. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can a Harvard professor really decode the genius of Taylor Swift? And is our digital world truly beyond saving?
First up, let’s talk about Taylor Swift. If you’ve ever wondered how she became a cultural phenomenon, Harvard English professor Stephanie Burt has you covered. Her book, Taylor’s Version: The Poetic and Musical Genius of Taylor Swift, dives deep into Swift’s lyrics, comparing them to the works of literary giants like Coleridge and Wordsworth. But is Swift’s music really on par with classical poetry? That’s a debate for the comments. Burt’s analysis doesn’t shy away from Swift’s complexities—her ambition, her desire to be loved, and her sometimes-ridiculous quest to please everyone. It’s a fascinating look at how one artist has captured the hearts of millions. (Out now, $30, Amazon; Basic Books)
Next, let’s address the elephant in the room: our digital addiction. Technology critic Cory Doctorow has coined the term ‘Enshittification’ to describe why our favorite apps and platforms seem to be getting worse by the day. From doomscrolling to the relentless pursuit of profit over user experience, Doctorow argues that we’re trapped in a cycle of digital decay. But here’s the kicker: he believes it’s not too late to fix it. His book doesn’t just diagnose the problem—it offers a roadmap for reclaiming our online lives. (Oct. 14, $30, Amazon; MCD)
Switching gears, what does it mean to be a Black LGBTQ+ artist in today’s world? Brandon Taylor’s Minor Black Figures explores this question through the eyes of Wyeth, a young painter navigating the pressures of the New York art scene. Wyeth grapples with representing his culture while staying true to his own voice—a struggle that’s both deeply personal and universally relatable. Is it possible to thrive as a creative without compromising your identity? That’s a question Taylor leaves us to ponder. (Oct. 14, $29, Amazon; Riverhead Books)
And let’s not forget the power of storytelling to connect us. Brandon Stanton’s Dear New York is a stunning love letter to the city’s five boroughs, captured in 500 pages of vibrant photography. But is a book enough to capture the soul of a city? Or do we need more—like Grand Central Terminal’s massive art installation featuring Stanton’s work? (Out now, $37, Amazon; St. Martin's Press)
Finally, for fans of literary legends, Thomas Pynchon’s Shadow Ticket is his first novel in over a decade. Set in prohibition-era Wisconsin, this ‘supercharged noir’ promises the wit and complexity we’ve come to expect from the author of Gravity’s Rainbow. At 88, Pynchon proves he’s still a master of his craft—but is this book for everyone, or just die-hard fans? (Out now, $24, Amazon; Penguin Press)
So, what do you think? Is Taylor Swift a poetic genius? Can we reverse the ‘enshittification’ of our digital lives? And what does it truly mean to be a Black LGBTQ+ artist today? Let’s keep the conversation going in the comments—I can’t wait to hear your thoughts!
