Taylor Swift’s song “Betty” completes the “august” love triangle from James’s perspective. The three-song storyline also includes “Cardigan,” told from Betty’s perspective, and “august,” narrated by the unnamed summer lover.
The songs appear on Folklore and use fictional characters and story arcs rather than presenting a straightforward autobiographical account. James is involved with Augustine during the summer, but he ultimately returns to Betty.
“august” focuses on Augustine’s longing and the temporary nature of the relationship. “Betty” shifts the viewpoint to James, who reflects on his actions and seeks reconciliation. “Cardigan” provides Betty’s perspective on the same broader story.
A common mistake is to identify “Cardigan” as James’s song because it is one of the three connected tracks. Its narrative viewpoint is Betty’s, while “Betty” is the song that gives James the central voice.