And so it begins …
One of the first questions I usually get is “where do you get your ideas?” The answer is simple – music.
Music has been a part of my life since I was very small. My mom played the piano and loved to sing. So our house was always filled with all types of music.
I began piano lessons when I was six and continued with those until I got to high school. That’s where I began a different kind of music instruction – Moreland House. Mr. House was a task master as our choir director. But that’s because he had a passion for music. He held us all – especially those he knew had any kind of talent – to a very high standard. And he pushed us to become the best version of ourselves.
Now I enjoy almost all genres of music, depending on my mood. As I get older, I’m more selective, because I want to be able to understand the words. I don’t especially care for really heavy metal, as it typically features amplified distortion, extended guitar solos, and overall loudness. The vocals are often intense growling or screaming, which can add to the genre’s raw and energetic feel. But maybe that’s the mood I or my character is in. That genre thrives on intensity and emotion, often necessary in a story.
While the melody, rhythm, and instrumentation are crucial elements of a song, the lyrics often serve as the heart and soul, giving the song its purpose and meaning. The message, emotions, and story of a song are in the lyrics. They can resonate on a personal level. They can express feelings of love, heartbreak, joy, and sorrow, creating a deep emotional bond between the artist and the audience.
But I digress …
Where do I get my ideas? From listening to music. All kinds of it. So my book planning begins with making a playlist. Usually one song sparks an idea. Christmas in Pine Woods began with Thomas Rhett’s “Christmas in the Country.” The second book’s basic idea grew out of Blake Shelton’s “Austin” meets Tim McGraw’s “It’s a Business Doing Pleasure With You” and all of the possibilities that combination provoked.
Once I get the idea, I look at pinpointing the central themes of the novel. Is it a tale of love and loss, a journey of self-discovery, or a thrilling adventure? Understanding the core themes will help to choose songs that resonate with the emotional landscape of the story. Of course, Belle was all about Christmas and overcoming a break-up she didn’t see coming. Selena Gomez tells her story before she met Kevin, in her song “Lose You to Love Me.” Ed Sheeran tells Kevin’s story with “Bad Habits” and “Shivers” when his world is turned on its ear by the baker of Pine Woods.
Each character will get his or her own soundtrack. I think about their individual journeys, and what kind of music would each character listen to? Then I create mini soundtracks for them, capturing their personalities, struggles, and growth. Sometimes they fool me and keep parts of their story hidden. But that’s the fun of discovery.
Next, I will think about the major plot points and select songs that reflect the emotional highs and lows of the story, often intertwining the characters’ mini soundtracks. The playlist flows in a way that mirrors the narrative arc, building tension, and releasing it at key moments. My playlist is a living document that evolves as my novel takes shape. I will refine it as I go, adding or removing songs to better fit the story. By the end, I’ll have a curated playlist that not only outlines my novel but also serves as a creative companion, guiding me through the writing journey with every beat and melody.
Leave a comment below and tell me a song you’ve always thought would inspire a good story.
Until next time, enjoy your time in Pine Woods!
