For me, the intent in a song is to sing it. I compose…
“For me, the intent in a song is to sing it. I compose songs, meaning I'm writing words to be set to music; I'm intending it to not be recited. I'm a singer-songwriter, and I'm a poet, and there really isn't a contradiction, at least for me.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Poetry Journal, 2012
Songwriting merges poetry and music, rejecting mere recitation for performance.
In simple terms: Songs are sung, not read.
Key Takeaway
Blend words with melody.
Themes
art
expression
music
Mood
creative
thoughtful
Type
humorous
inspirational
When to use this quote
- songwriting workshops
- live gigs
- recording
- teaching
Key Concepts
literature
performance studies
Questions to Reflect On
- When is a poem best spoken?
- How to adapt poetry for song?
A Different Perspective
Not all poems suit music.