I’ve been away for a few days because I’ve been so busy with work. Now with a few days off, I can get back to my own writing.  Which got me to thinking….do all writers use or listen to music when they write?

Before I start a new project, I create a playlist in my iPod so that I can listen to my heart’s content. Usually if I have the earbuds plugged into my head, the music is more of a background, and I don’t even pay attention to the songs. If I listen to the playlist through the speakers of my laptop, the music is more in my face. I pay more attention to it. Seems like it should be the opposite, but for me it isn’t.

I create the playlist with the main characters in mind. Right now, my heroine is really hoping to find love. She’ll tell you that she’s not interested, if you ask, but deep down she really wants to find her soul mate.  “This Kiss” by Faith Hill is her mantra. The heroine’s bff is desperately trying to hook up with an old flame, but realizes that it’s probably not in her best interest. Her song is “Big Girls Don’t Cry” by Fergie. Now my reluctant hero also is looking for love, but doesn’t think it’s a good idea to move on after his wife died – she’s been gone for over two years, but heck he still pines for her. But when he meets my H, all his ideas of living the celibate life change. His song is “Nearly Lost You” by the Screaming Trees.

What about you? Do you listen to music when you write, or does it have to be completely quiet? Are you crazy like me and pick songs for your characters?

Peace,

Kris