Hard Core All Night

Sometimes the characters in my head are a little pushy. Yesterday, while I was seriously busy working the day job, I could not shake these two new characters and the story idea that has been brewing in the back of my head for weeks. I kept messing up simple tasks all day because I couldn't concentrate while my head was conjuring things like mad. So, last night, I took a break from edits to let the new boys have center stage. Give them an inch and, well, you know the rest. It's now almost 7 AM, and we've been at it hard core all night. Not that! Jeez! Bunch of dirty minds. I like that!

Anyway, I think the voices might let me get a few hours of sleep, now. Please don't call the boys in white. No need for padded accommodations just yet. I am still the fully functioning captain of this vessel. I did attempt to lie down at three, but that was an epic fail. The brain was all a buzz. It wouldn't shut off. Since I have been in a bit of a mild creative slump, inspiring the previous Pearl Jam "Music to Light You Up" post, having to write all night is by no means a complaint. Thanks to Eddie and the Gang for helping to unblock the flow again.

When the words are flowing, I find it's best to just go with it and ride the currents where they lead. This all night session felt a bit like riding a canoe along a steady old river like the James. Not too much white water, but no terribly stagnant places, either. Just an enjoyable adventure. Now, I'm off to conjure more adventures in dreamlandia.  This shouldn't be a hardship since I'm pretty sure they'll be filled with good music and boys in love. 

Music To Light You Up

Last night, I was chatting about music with fellow author David Bain on Twitter. In particular, we were talking about Pearl Jam, which happens to be my favorite band. It got me thinking about why some bands speak to me over many years, even as they grow and change and experiment, while others come and go. Since I have been an avid PJ fan for their entire twenty-year career, liking their music better and better with each new release, it's probably safe to say they are one of those bands that will always speak to me. 

Why is that? Of course, I could go with an easy cliche answer and explain their "staying power" by saying they are exceptionally gifted. Although true, I don't think that covers it. I certainly would not dare try to answer this question in any broad sense because music is an intimate experience, different for each of us. But, since my love of music has been front and center in my mind this weekend while I drove the long hours to and from Syl's Memorial Party, I have been pondering this for myself. I kept thinking about certain musicians  and why they made Syl so happy, while pondering what other musicians have given to my life. 

One thing is for sure, when it comes to my own Creative Antics Pearl Jam takes center stage. So, personally, some of the answers lie in their ability to inspire me. There is something about their music that sparks my creative urges. No, that's not right. Their music doesn't just spark these urges, it lights them on fire. If I am feeling down and having trouble finding my creative energy, I can always put them on, turn up the volume, and, suddenly, things are flowing again. It's brilliant! So, I offer a little bit of advice to all of you fellow creative people. Find some music that energizes you, that really lights you up, and keep it handy for those dreaded creative slumps. Then, turn it on and turn it up! You might find it helpful. 

And, of course, in honor of Pearl Jam's 20th Anniversary, here's my favorite song so far: