Most people enjoy music, but how should it be used in fiction? Is it okay for authors to put song lyrics directly in their prose, and if so, how much should they use? What about using songs as a plot device or just to set the mood? We’ll cover all that and more. Plus, stick around until the end for a taste of synth-whalepop.
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Opening and closing theme: The Princess Who Saved Herself by Jonathan Coulton. Used with permission.
Show Notes:
Choosing Music and Instruments For Your Culture
Adding Dance to Your Fictional Culture
Ron Jones (TNG Composer)
Okay, the whale synth-pop at the end cracked me up. Well played!
I guess it’s more synth-whale jazz now that I think about it. I don’t understand music but I’m glad you liked it!
John M. Ford wrote a wonderful Star Trek novel called How Much for Just the Planet, about a world with dilithium crystals the Feds and Klingons both want. And the inhabitants frequently break out into song. It’s a terrific musical comedy. It would be a way better Star Trek movie.
He also wrote The Final Reflection, but that didn’t have any singing.