Taylor Swift's song "Eldest Daughter" from her 2025 album The Life of a Showgirl explores the experience of being an eldest daughter, highlighting themes of cautiousness, loyalty, and vulnerability. The song contrasts the tough exterior eldest daughters often develop to protect themselves with the warmth and love found in a meaningful relationship, believed to be about her fiancé Travis Kelce. Lyrics express how her trust in him softened her guarded nature and made her believe in love and marriage again, despite past hurt. The song also touches on family dynamics, the protective role of the eldest child, and a promise of steadfast devotion, blending personal introspection with romantic commitment.

The lyrics depict the eldest daughter as someone who learned to be strong and cautious ("Every eldest daughter was the first lamb to the slaughter / So we all dressed up as wolves and we looked fire"), yet capable of softness and loyalty in love. The song evokes a nostalgic innocence contrasted with the challenges of growing up and internet culture's harshness, ultimately celebrating loyalty, protection, and finding a "home" in a partner who brings joy and security.

In sum, "Eldest Daughter" is both a reflective and romantic ballad bridging Taylor's identity as the eldest sibling with her current relationship, promising love and fidelity while embracing the complexities of her role and emotions.