Welcome to Music Monday! As many of you know, music contributes a great deal to my writing process. Whether it’s a song’s lyrics, beat, rhythm, or tone, I find myself constantly inspired by it.
Last week, I sent the third draft of my novel off to my beta readers. Along with it, I sent a note requesting they resist sending back their thoughts and critiques for at least two weeks. Cause I need a break!
As much as I love writing, there comes a point I need to stop, step back, and regain my breath (and sanity). So, that’s what I’ll be doing the next couple of weeks. However, just because I’m not working on a project at this very moment doesn’t mean I’m not listening to music and finding inspiration in it. That’s like asking me not to breathe!
So, today, I wanted to share one of my “go-to” songs by Florence and the Machine: “Shake It Out”.
This is one of those songs that always ends up on my latest book playlist. No matter what story or character I’m creating, “Shake It Out” sparks my imagination, helps me deepen a plot, and pushes me to develop stronger emotions.
My favorite thing about this song is its lyrics.
And I’ve been a fool and I’ve been blind
I can never leave the past behind
I can see no way, I can see no way
I’m always dragging that horse around
In every story, there is some kind of conflict. Characters must overcome all kinds of obstacles, both physical and emotional. “Shake It Out” is a great song to listen to when working through those conflict-driven scenes and developing the emotions your characters experience.
So, if you’re looking for a song to add to your book playlist, check out Florence and the Machine’s “Shake It Out”!
What song(s) are you in love with right now? Which one(s) offer you inspiration? Let me know! I’m always searching for songs that motivate my writing.
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“I Feel Everything” is brimming with emotion and power. In fact, whenever I’m writing a scene that revolves around rage, revenge, or a big fight, I’ll blast this song (usually a few times in a row). It’s one of those songs where the more you listen to it, the more it moves you.
And, of course, the lyrics are amazing and always give me something to use to add depth to a plot or character.
So, if you’re looking for “one of those songs” that always lends inspiration, check out “I Feel Everything” by Idina Menzel!
I wanted to try and schedule this one for a Monday, but alas, no can do. The timing simply didn’t work out. Oh well! “Love The Way You Lie” was one of my favorite songs I chose for a Music Monday feature this year. In fact, I still listen to it often while working on my more intense scenes. So check it out if you haven’t yet and see if it inspires your writing!
This song is packed with conflict, pain, and all of the emotions I need to feel while writing these explosive scenes: betrayal, fury, heartbreak, fear, regret…I also love the lyrics and music video. Both help me tap into my dark side and go to places I don’t want to go–but must.
So, if you’re looking for a song that touches upon heavy topics, and inspires intense emotions, check out “Love The Way You Lie”.
To put it simply, this song is evil. It might not sound like it. Actually, when you first hear it, you’ll likely think it’s beautiful and sweet–motivational, even. But once you stop and listen to the lyrics, you’ll quickly realize what’s being sung about and your stomach will drop and your heart will sink.
Yes, this song is about the rise of The National Socialist Party before World War II, and yes, it’s downright horrible.
There are so many aspects to consider when developing our characters. In this awesome article, Kristen Lamb examines one of the most important: WHY? Why do our characters act the way they do? Why are they a control freak, or a know-it-all, or a shy mouse, or an arrogant butthead? It isn’t “just because”. There must be a reason–a why.
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