Sunday, February 21, 2010

Anybody ever listen to Bon Iver?

One of my favorite songs currently is called “Skinny Love,” and it’s by him. The tune has great lyrics and a beautiful sound, which is always a good combination. That being said, I highly recommend it to anyone who gets into Indie stuff. But, alas, don't worry, I have a cogent point! I actually played "Skinny Love" on repeat the entire time I was coming up with my poem for our last assignment. I’m trying to use music as a kind of segue way out of my recent literary rut, and to a degree, it’s been very helpful. I think that a good song can put a mood in context for us, whether it’s joy, sadness, or something in between. Music helps me feel deeply even on the days I don't see a single drop of inspiration to source – when I feel numb, so to speak.

“Skinny Love” served as a big source of inspiration for the poem of mine some of you will be workshopping this coming Tuesday, "Tainted Genes." The music wasn't helpful because the theme of Bon Iver's song is at all related to my piece, but because it gave me a tone to work with, a circuit for my electricity. The song might not on the same topic as my poem, but I think it carries a similar feeling of pain and anger, if that makes sense. I guess what I'm trying to say is that I think music can be a valuable way to channel emotion. Anyway, I thought I’d suggest this method to anyone who might be having some trouble getting the creative juices flowing lately. Put on one of your favorite songs and just see where it takes you; it might be surprising where you end up.

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