Members Mannix Posted August 31, 2002 Members Share Posted August 31, 2002 I am really trying to add more depth to my lyric writting but everytime i try i end up writting a damn novel instead of a song. I am trying to get a story across but i am getting so wrapped up into trying to get the story told that it ends up being way way to long. anyone else have/had this problem and have any tips? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Members seamless Posted August 31, 2002 Members Share Posted August 31, 2002 Sure have. I've needed to work on that, particularly because a lot of my songs are "story songs". The biggest tip I can give you is to try to cut everything down to the bare minimum in terms of the number of words and syllables you use. Every word should have its existence justified - if it's not important - or if it's redundant - get rid of it: it's taking up space that could belong to something more important to the central idea of your song. Is there an idea you can get across more efficiently by using a metaphor instead of a long-winded description? If so, use it - the metaphor will add depth to your song, and if properly used will help shorten it. Also, every line should keep the story moving in a forward progression - if the song seems to be dawdling, then start chopping!! One of my favorite modern story-song writers is Robert Earl Keen - you can learn a lot from the way he structures his songs. Here are a few links to his lyrics - I personally think they are textbook-perfect story songs! The Road Goes on Foreverhttp://www.yimpan.com/Songsite/Lyric/index.asp?sid=5559 Jesse With The Long Hairhttp://www.yimpan.com/Songsite/Lyric/index.asp?sid=3990 Corpus Christi Bayhttp://www.yimpan.com/Songsite/Lyric/index.asp?sid=810 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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