by G.Parker
While at work the other day, I came to the realization of something that I've known off and on, yet often forget. I like to listen to background music when I'm doing something that requires thought.
The kind of music I like varies, depending on what I'm doing. There's a difference in the music though. If I'm writing, or at work, I can't have music with lyrics. Enya is about as lyrical as I can handle, otherwise it's usually classical or guitar.
Have you noticed what kind of music you tend to listen to while writing? I discovered that if I'm listening to rowdy or bouncy music with words, I can't focus on what I'm writing -- I want to dance, not type.
The music that I really love to listen to is the soundtrack to Pride and Prejudice, the newer one. It has a flowing, smooth feel to it that calms the nerves and makes me think of the country. When I'm relaxed like that, the ideas flow better and faster. It makes a big difference.
I thought it was pretty funny the first time I participated in Nation Novel Writing Month and they had a forum for "music that you write to." I hadn't really thought of it before then. Now I know it helps me focus.
Try an experiment. Listen to different types of music and see which one helps you at the keyboard. You might be surprised.
4 comments:
I live for writing with music. I love it. I use different soundtracks (instrumental) to enhance "mood" writing. Sometimes, it just helps block out the world. =] Great post!
I listen to music when I write at least 95% of the time. That other 5% is when I forget because I am so caught up in getting it down. Some of my favorites are Hans Zimmer, Basil Poledouris, Howard Shore, Wagner,Grieg, and Symphonic Rock compilations as in no vocals (Zeppelin, Queen) but when I'm writing Gadiantons, I like Heavy Metal. It's the spirit of the thing.
Nice to see most of us listen to music while we write. I couldn't imagine not having music.
I have several playlists made on playlist.com - one is all movie scores, the other is all love songs (to help with those love scenes).
I did find a great website that has all kinds of music on it.
www.lastfm.com it's a radio station.
You can select Hans Zimmer and listen to "his" radio and it's all movie scores of various artist.
It's wonderful.
Thanks for the post.
~Krista
I like to listen to very quiet classical (usually piano) music. However, I find that listening to other music genres during my off time enhances my creative flow. So later, I recall those thoughts and feelings and put them down on computer (not usually paper)! :)
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