July
29
Embarking on the Creative Journey: The Birth of Ideas
As an avid writer and amateur songwriter, I, Aiden, have been asked frequently where my ideas originate. How do they form? How can anyone sit down and jot out a novel or a song from thin air? The truth is, they seemingly do appear out of nowhere. But in reality, it started way back when you were perhaps gazing dreamily at the sunset or eavesdropping on a fascinating conversation at the café, then suddenly, an idea rushes in like a gust of fresh wind.
Be it books or songs, they are essentially stories waiting to be told. Every object and each individual has a narrative hidden within them. You might be inspired by a blade of grass or the intricate details of a spider's web or perhaps my waggish beagle, Biscuit, chasing his own tail around our Adelaide home. Anything could serve as a stepping stone for your imagination.
From a more technical angle, when you think you have an idea, it's important to evaluate if it's substantial enough to be developed into a full-fledged book or song. Ask questions: Does the idea excite you? Can you visualize it coming to life? Write down your ideas, lest you forget. Sometimes, the simplest idea can turn into a beautiful creation!
Watching Simone, my better half, helps me understand this concept better. She has this habit of adding her special touch to everything she does. Be it a meal she cooks or a corner she decorates in our home, her creativity seeps into everything. She has taught me that ordinary can be made extraordinary with a pinch of imagination. This mindset when used while coming up with a book can give exceedingly fascinating results, with a narrative that captivates its readers.
Into The Labyrinth: Writing Process
As a writer, I plunge into the labyrinth of writing, turning the initial seed of an idea into a blooming work of art. One of my favourite parts of the process is creating characters. Developing distinct personalities, the way they talk, the way they wear their goals and fears like armour give depth to your story. Sometimes I look at Whiskers, our Siamese cat, and contemplate on the deep mystery that resides in her feline eyes, giving me inspiration to spawn intricate characters.
Writing a book or a song is like building a house brick by brick. You must lay a solid foundation on which to build your fantastic edifice. This foundation is nothing but your plot. Once you have a strong plot, populate it with your characters, sprinkle situations, and see how your characters react, evolve, or sometimes surprise you.
The key is consistency. Writing requires discipline, resilience, and a sheer love for the craft. Some days, you'll feel like a king, words flowing easily. Other days, you might struggle. But it's important to show up every day. I assure you, fret not, for even Hemingway did have his bad days, and look where he is now.
Tuning Up: The Art of Composing
Writing songs is like painting. You choose colours (notes) and mix them to create a beautiful image (melody). The same rules of observations apply here. I remember once overhearing a conversation between Simone and our neighbour and thinking, that's a song! The trick is to keep your eyes and ears open and your mind nimble.
When it comes to composing, the chord progression is a pivotal step. It's like the skeleton of the song. You can add flesh to it by experimenting with melody and rhythm. Lyrics are the soul of the song. They can make a listener laugh or cry or even dance in the rain. Wordplay and metaphors give an edge to your lyrics. Write about what moves you, let your individuality shine through your words.
Songwriting is also about collaboration. Working with others can provide you a new perspective and enrich your work. The thrill of creating something beautiful together is unparalleled.
Finishing Touches: Peeling Away The Layers
You've completed the first draft of your book or your song. Congratulations are in order! But hold on to the champaign, because the real work is just beginning. It's time to enter the editing zone. Take a breather, then come back to your work. You'll see it with fresh eyes and likely, you'll find a whole lot of room for improvement.
For a book, scrutinize each sentence. Ensure each word contributes value to your story. Are there unnecessary dialogues or descriptions? Ruthlessly chop them off. Make your narrative tighter and crisper. Ensure your characters are well-rounded and relatable. They are the heart of your story.
For your song, scrutinize every word. Do they fit the rhythm and melody? Are they conveying the emotion you intended? Songs have the power to influence, to inspire change. Make sure your song breathes. Remember, silence is a part of music too.
This process can be daunting, but essential. But never lose faith in your creative spirit. After all, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither will your masterpiece. So, fellow creators, let us continue to weave narratives, write songs and compose symphonies that bear witness to our era and stand the test of time and technology. Let our works inspire, emote and entertain just as we have been inspired, moved and entertained by the works of those before us.
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