The story of David and Dawn needs finished. The ending – well, technically it’s the beginning – has never been in question. My muse has had it gift-wrapped and ready to be opened since I finished “Misery’s Constant Companion.” I just haven’t made myself open it yet. No idea why, really. But today is the today. Or at least I hope it is.
You see, I’m having trouble getting into the character because my mood is so–happy is the best way to describe it. And the two scenes I need to write to finish the story are not happy ones. They’re dark and sad and somewhat depressing.
So how does one tap into their character’s mood and feelings?
The fastest way for me is to listen to music that evokes thoughts and feelings that match the character’s. While listening to these songs and getting my head right, I thought it might be fun to post a quick blog with a short (incomplete) list of the songs I turn to – the songs to inspire writing a dark scene or a scene with a depressing end.
- Come Home by OneRepublic
The thing I like best about OneRepublic is the authentic feel to all their songs. This one in particular takes me to a totally secret place deep inside my heart, where I keep the memories of someone I missed for a really, really long time. Don’t you find when you connect with a song’s lyrics you’re transported to the exact place in time when that song fit your life perfectly? - Broken by Seether ft. Amy Lee
The chemistry between these two voices – Shaun Morgan and Amy Lee – and the relevance of the lyrics makes this song a gut-wrencher. - Hate Me by Blue October
Oh man, this song. If you can listen to this song and walk away unaffected, then I’m envious. Justin Furstenfeld’s emotion bleeds through every word and I know exactly what he’s singing about – from both sides of the story. - Bother by Stone Sour
I don’t know but this effin song depresses the hell outta me. The guitar, the tone of his voice, the lyrics…whew! Definitely do not listen to this one if you want to avoid being sad. - Never Too Late by Three Days Grace
This song is actually a lot different from the others listed here because it makes me feel hopeful. But it’s powerful nonetheless and puts me into a darker mindset. And remember, even though life can be a real pain in the arse sometimes, it’s never too late to make your life better and you should certainly never lose hope. - I Almost Told You That I Loved You by Papa Roach
Just plain ol’ dirty fun that does not make me think about unicorns, rainbows, or anything “happy” when it comes to relationships. - Loser by 3 Doors Down
Nothing to lose. At your wit’s end. And someone pushes your last button. How would that feel? How would you escape that pain and their constant pokes and judgments? When I listen to Loser that’s what comes to mind. - Strong Enough by Sheryl Crow
I’ve listened to this song SO many times. Truer lyrics may not exist for me. - Hurt by Johnny Cash
The raw emotion in Johnny’s voice gets me every time. I mean, to the point where I almost sob.
Honorable mentions:
Close My Eyes Forever by Ozzy Osbourne ft. Lita Ford
Do you have any “dark” songs to share? How do those songs affect you?
Okay, after listening to all of those songs, I think I’m ready to write the end to David and Dawn’s story…at least this story.