I was rather surprised years ago when people asked me how I can listen to music while I write. They assumed it was a distraction or hurt my progress. Yet, I’ve always done it and never suffered. Other things got in the way, but music kept me focused whenever I had the time. So, I was thinking of giving a few random tips to anyone who wants to try writing with music.
- Do not make the music so loud that you can’t think. This is supposed to be background noise, which can stir the subconscious a little bit. If you’re unable to hear your own thoughts then you have to turn the volume down. Also, don’t be afraid to adjust the volume as the writing session progresses.
- Pick music that you will enjoy, but not necessarily distract you. This can differ from person to person. I toss on a Personal Channel I have on Pandora or an Alternative Rock station while I work. These are genres that I like listening too, but I won’t try to sing along. One can even create playlists that are designed for specific scene types if the goal is to help with inspiration.
- If you need to pause or mute the music then do so. Like any project, you may hit a point where you can’t focus with any noise. A piece won’t fit or a character isn’t coming out right, so you need to try changing your environment. On the opposite side, you may need to step away from the book and listen to the music while thinking to get through an idea. Try both methods if you want.
- Never feel forced to listen to music while writing. It isn’t for everyone.
- Try to maintain control of the music. If someone else is working the source then you’ll find yourself getting jolted out of ideas. For example, you may be listening to a rock song that helps with an action scene. Halfway through, your significant other chances it to a romantic pop song and you get derailed. You can become irritable towards them or toss out the scene, which may still have good stuff. It’s similar to being jolted awake by an alarm. Nobody likes it regardless of how often it happens.
- If you write in public and listen to music then you need headphones. Also, make sure they’re plugged in and working. Last thing you want is to blast raunchy rock songs in the middle of the library. That might not get you looks at Starbucks, but definitely not the library.
Legends of Windemere 
Great tips. My older brother listens to all kinds of music while he works. I get too distracted with certain types of music. I’m reminded of coffee shops and how some people can work in that environment and some can’t. I am of the latter camp. I get too distracted by people and conversations.
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I never got the coffee shops either. Too much noise that I can’t control and I always felt like people would watch me at times. I wonder if some authors like that setting because they hope someone will ask them about their books.
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Charles, I used to play 50s songs while writing. It got me in the mood. There was reference to the songs in the story. But, for editing to concentrate, I like it quiet. A complete change. 📚 Christine
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Good point on how editing requires more silence. I’ve found that I’m starting to do that more often. Not sure what triggered me to use more silence when editing over the last month.
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Great tips, Charles. I think more often than not headphones or ear buds are the way to go.
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Definitely. I had to use those when I worked in the dining room. Although, it still didn’t stop people from bugging me.
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😊
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These are great tips. It’s funny. I’m almost the opposite of CE Robinson. I like to write in silence, but can edit almost anywhere. It puts the brain in a different place.
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Thanks. Curious how you’re the opposite.
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I don’t know. Noise doesn’t seem to bother me when doing edits and rewrites.
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