Not Just Words: Prose in Music and Songwriting in Arts

The world of music is a vast and intricate one, encompassing a wide array of genres, styles, and techniques. It is a universal language that transcends cultural boundaries and speaks to the human soul. However, within this vast musical landscape, there exists a hidden gem that often goes unnoticed and underappreciated – prose in music and songwriting.

Prose, defined as the ordinary form of spoken or written language, may seem like an unlikely candidate in the realm of music and songwriting. After all, music is primarily known for its melodic and harmonic elements, and lyrics are often seen as merely a vessel to convey the message of the song. However, prose has been used throughout history to enhance the emotional impact and storytelling in music, making it an essential element in the creative process.

One of the most prominent examples of the use of prose in music can be found in the works of the legendary Bob Dylan. Known for his poetic and evocative lyrics, Dylan’s music often reads like a prose poem. His ballad “The Times They Are A-Changin'” is a perfect illustration of how prose can be used in songwriting to convey complex emotions and thoughts.

With lines like “Come mothers and fathers throughout the land, and don’t criticize what you can’t understand,” Dylan uses simple yet powerful prose to capture the spirit of the civil rights movement of the 1960s. The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of the changing times and the call for social justice, making it a timeless classic that still resonates with listeners to this day.

Another notable example of prose in music can be found in the works of the band Queen. In their hit song “Bohemian Rhapsody,” the band employed a fusion of operatic and spoken word prose to create a haunting and surreal experience. The lyrics of the song tell a story of a man’s inner turmoil, with lines like “I’m just a poor boy, I need no sympathy,” delivering a gut-wrenching emotional impact.

Furthermore, the use of prose in songwriting is not limited to just words. Instrumental music continues to be a powerful medium to convey emotion and tell a story without any lyrics. Composers like Hans Zimmer and Ennio Morricone have mastered the art of using instrumental prose to enhance the mood and narrative in movies and TV shows.

For instance, Zimmer’s iconic score for the film Inception utilizes a blend of electronic and orchestral elements to create a sense of tension and unease, perfectly complementing the dream-like and surreal atmosphere of the movie. Similarly, Morricone’s score for The Good, the Bad and the Ugly is a masterclass in how instrumental music can tell a story and evoke emotions without any lyrics.

In conclusion, prose in music and songwriting is not just a collection of words or notes. It is an essential tool that, when used effectively, can elevate the listener’s experience and bring a whole new dimension to the music. Prose allows the artist to tell stories, evoke emotions, and convey powerful messages in a way that connects with the listener on a deeper level.

It is a highly specialized form of artistic expression that requires a deep understanding of language, music theory, and the human psyche. Aspiring musicians and songwriters must not overlook the power of prose and its ability to add depth and meaning to their work. So the next time you listen to your favorite song, pay attention to the words and the story they are trying to tell you – because when it comes to prose in music, it’s not just words; it’s an art form in itself.