During an early song critique session in my songwriting journey, I felt nervous and embarrassed while playing my early song in front of nine other writers and a professional. However, it was during this session that I learned about one of the most important tools that has since become a staple in my commercial songwriting: show don't tell.
When writing a lyric, it can be tempting to simply tell your listeners how you feel or what's happening in a song. However, the most effective songs are those that show rather than tell. Showing allows the listener to experience the emotions and events of the song for themselves, creating a deeper and more meaningful connection to the music.
Creating a deeper and more meaningful connection
For example, consider the difference between:
“I’m going to get on a bus and find myself a better life”
And,
“I’ll spread my wings, and I’ll learn how to fly, I’ll do what it takes ‘til I touch the sky.”
It’s powerful stuff.
But how can we do this to show rather than tell in our song lyrics? Here are some tips to get started:
Use Sensory Details – One of the most powerful ways to show rather than tell in your songwriting is to use sensory details. Instead of simply stating that you're sad, describe the way the rain feels on your skin or the way the colors of the sunset remind you of your lost love. By describing what you see, hear, touch, taste, and smell, you create a vivid picture in the listener's mind that allows them to experience the emotions of the song for themselves.
Use Metaphors and Symbolism – Another way to show rather than tell in your songwriting is to use metaphors and symbolism. For example,
Instead of telling the listener that you're feeling trapped, you might use the metaphor of a bird in a cage.
Instead of telling the listener that you're in love, you might use the symbolism of a rose.
By using these literary devices, you allow the listener to interpret the meaning of the song for themselves, creating a more personal and emotional connection.
Use Action and Dialogue – Finally, another way to show rather than tell in your songwriting is to use action and dialogue. Instead of telling the listener that you're heartbroken, you might show them a scene where you're crying alone in your room or having a conversation with your ex. By using action and dialogue, you create a story that the listener can follow and empathize with, making the emotions of the song more real and relatable.
So, in conclusion, if you want to write songs that truly connect with your listeners, remember to show rather than tell. Use sensory details, metaphors and symbolism, and action and dialogue to create a vivid and emotional experience for your audience.
Questions
Here are a few questions I often ask myself –
How can I use descriptive language to paint a picture in the listener's mind?
How can I avoid clichés and create original lyrics that will stand out?
How can I use my words to connect with my audience on a deeper level and create a shared experience?
Hope this helps!
Simon