Writing lyrics is a unique form of creative writing, with important differences that set it apart from writing poetry, fiction, plays, or any other type of literature.
The article “Writing Lyrics: 5 Basics All Songwriters Should Know” from Lyric Workroom discusses essential principles that distinguish lyric writing from other forms of creative writing such as poetry, fiction, or plays. The five basics highlighted are:
- Vocally Performed: Lyrics are designed to be sung or rapped, not just read. This performance aspect often influences whether music or lyrics are created first, with variations depending on the songwriter’s approach.
- Written in Lines: Unlike prose, lyrics are structured in lines that align with musical phrases, not necessarily complete sentences. These lines are intuitive and often end without punctuation.
- Organized into Sections: Lyrics are divided into song sections like verses and choruses. Verses usually provide new content with each repetition, while choruses repeat the same lyrics to create a sense of familiarity.
- Use of Poetic Techniques: Rhyme, repetition, and other poetic devices are prevalent in lyrics to create patterns that are pleasing when sung. Repetition, especially in the chorus, helps maintain listener engagement.
- Short and Condensed: Given the typically short length of songs, lyrics must be concise. Songwriters use techniques like sensory imagery, simile, and metaphor to convey much with few words, often revising multiple times to achieve the desired effect.
Key Insights:
- Lyric Writing vs. Poetry: While both use poetic techniques, lyrics are crafted for vocal performance, impacting their structure and style significantly.
- Sectional Structure: The organization into verses and choruses helps in building a song’s narrative and maintaining interest through repetition and variation.
- Conciseness: The challenge of being brief while still impactful requires skillful use of language, making lyric writing a unique and intricate form of creative expression.
These basics serve as foundational guidelines for beginners and seasoned songwriters alike, emphasizing the blend of creativity and structure necessary for effective lyric writing.
Source: Writing Lyrics: 5 Basics All Songwriters Should Know
