music in writing - Writers Forum

wheelz1138 · 11-17-2007, 08:49 PM

Writing in a contemporary, suburban setting based in the real world, I'd like to include music, through it playing on a radio and singing by characters as a thematic event in my story. I just don't know how to effectively include this without simply writing "Susan sang along with the radio, playing Jingle Bells." Any ideas?

Amara-J · 11-18-2007, 03:08 AM

Just curious, do you have any specific songs in mind?

I personally can't wrap my head around describing music, as well, since I don't have any background in it except for occasional radio listens and off-key karaoke singing. Hopefully you're not aiming for an opera review or some other. *chuckles*

Rabid Euphoria · 11-18-2007, 03:12 AM

I only add music for certain reasons:

a) To add nostalgia and create a time frame. If you're story is set in the seventies, music from the time helps set the mood.

b) Adds atmosphere. Calling upon a song, especially for key elements, is risky as the reader may not know the song and thus lose it. In 'The Dark Tower: 5', Someone Save My Life Tonight by Elton John was important and at the time had never heard it...now though, it would get it.

c) Symbolism. Using music and song titles can be a great way to tell the readers something through song. In my novel, the street in which a junkie lives is Baker Street, named after the song by...George Michael?

Wheelz, you're best off just saying the name of the song and artist or straight out using the lyrics (which you'll need permission to publish).

JohnN · 11-18-2007, 08:25 AM

Well if you want to be realistic you have to include song. Music is routed in our daily lives. Describing it is difficult though and thats why some writers only use it sparingly.

I suggest you stick with what you said above and describe how the music makes the person feel. Its the impact of music that matter rather than the actual music itself.