There’s a path behind the place where I live, and a black gum tree on the path. Up against it stands some big leaf aster. I don’t know if you know what that looks like, but this tall beauty has bluish flowers, and large heart-shaped leaves. It’s just a gorgeous color.
Whenever I get to this spot where this tree stands, I get a type of … signal. I can’t explain it but I pay attention, because I know something’s going to happen; I’m going to get some words or a melody, or something.
What I love most about being a songwriter is that I stand all my life in the direct path of signals, the strangest, most beautiful alphabet in the universe. I get to translate pulsations into notes and lyrics that restore and console, reconstruct and heal.
The signals don’t always quickly reveal themselves, and when this happens it’s no use blaming the walk. No matter what, I have to stay on the trail and follow the things that motion me on. They often make no sense, and I don’t always feel like following them, but they always lead somewhere.
When I pay close attention, I see that no two walks along the path are the same. Each brings a hidden blessing; a miracle which is unique to the path on that day, and which cannot be saved for later.
If I don’t notice the aster, this bluish signal, if I don’t use this blessing today, it will be lost.
This brings back memories. What ever works.I used to get this feeling with lyrics. Not everyone understands it.
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Wonderful
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Curiosity, signals & attention: this is the fruitful combination …
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Beautifully said
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Loved your song……
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Thank you
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I love this idea of translating signals. I think that is a perfect description for what making music must be like. Sometimes I feel that same way when I am writing and drawing. I get these impulses, feelings, stirrings, and I try to translate them as best as I can onto paper.
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And you do, so beautifully.
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Such an insightful post on the craft of songwriting; I’m glad I took the time to visit. I also had a listen to the lovely “Two Winters” – all power to you, Tony!
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You’re so kind, thank you for listening, Liam. – Tony
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