Short Course - Sound to Word to Sound
Introduction
Welcome to Short Course - Sound to Word to Sound
In this course, we will explore the practice of drawing inspiration from sound to influence writing. By utilising sensorially sensitive approaches to writing, fusing listening and writing together to generate new material and overcome writer’s block.
Throughout this course you will be guided to experiment with the medium of music and sound, by attuning your ears to the subtle nuances of soundscapes and rhythms, finding alternative ways to engage with the creative writing process.
Before you begin, download your Working Document
Watch a short video of multidisciplinary artist, Nia Fekri, giving an introduction to her working methods.
Module 1: Practical
1.1 Flash Writing
Watch a video of Nia Fekri discussing the value of uninhibited writing.
Jump Right Into It
In this section, we will explore the art of "Flash Writing," a dynamic approach to generating spontaneous and evocative words inspired by the auditory tapestry of music. Remember, the beauty of this exercise lies in its spontaneity. Embrace the unexpected and allow your words to paint a vivid picture of the emotions and impressions elicited by the music.
Your Turn
Q1. Flash writing
Choose a Song: Begin by selecting a song that resonates with you.
See Working Document for details.
Set the Atmosphere: Find a comfortable space, free from distractions.
See Working Document for details.
Start the Song and Write: Your task is to create a list of words that spontaneously come to mind as you listen.
See Working Document for details.
Capture the Essence
See Working Document for details.
Take notes as needed in Exercise 1.1 in your Working Document.
Module 1: Practical (cont.)
1.2 Attuning Your Senses
Watch a video of Nia Fekri highlighting a few different approaches to listening.
In this section, we’ll delve into the multifaceted ways in which sound can profoundly impact our writing. We'll examine five dimensions – Emotional, Atmospheric, Sonic Dynamics, Phonetic Resonance, and Memory – each offering a unique lens through which to view and harness the power of sound in the creative process.
Emotionally: How Does it Make Me Feel?
Understanding the emotional landscape evoked by a piece of music is fundamental. Consider the range of emotions elicited – joy, melancholy, excitement, or tranquility. Recognising and channeling these emotions into your writing allows for a deeper connection between the reader and your narrative.
Atmospherically: What Scene Does it Visualise for Me?
Music has the capacity to conjure vivid imagery. As you listen, explore the scenes and settings that materialise in your mind. These visualisations can serve as inspiration for crafting atmospheric settings in your writing, enriching your narrative with sensory details.
Sonic Dynamics: Dictating the Structure of Writing?
The interplay between sonic elements – tempo, volume, rhythm – can inform the structure of your writing. Consider how changes in dynamics within a song may parallel shifts in tension, pacing, or mood in your writing. Let the ebb and flow of sonic dynamics guide the natural progression of your narrative.
Phonetically: Correlating Sounds to Words?
Explore the phonetic qualities of the music. Are there sounds or rhythms that resonate with specific words or phrases? Leveraging phonetic resonance can infuse your writing with a musical quality, creating aural patterns that enhance the overall rhythm and cadence of your prose.
Memory: Does the Sound Recall Something Familiar?
Sound has the remarkable ability to evoke memories. Reflect on whether the music triggers any personal or collective memories. Incorporating these nostalgic elements into your writing can imbue your work with authenticity and relatability.
Your Turn
Take some time to reflect on the words gathered from the previous exercise and the above approaches.
Q2. Attuning Your Senses (10 min)
Choose a song that resonates with you emotionally and sparks vivid imagery.
See Working Document for details.
Choose one of the approaches discussed.
See Working Document for details.
Set the Atmosphere: Find a comfortable space, free from distractions.
See Working Document for details.
Set your Timer: You have 10 minutes to complete this exercise.
See Working Document for details.
Take notes as needed in Exercise 1.2 in your Working Document.
Module 1: Practical (cont.)
1.3 Writing With Constraints
Watch a video of Nia Fekri explaining how rules or constraints are versatile tools that can push the boundaries of your writing.
The Power of Constraints
In this section, we'll explore the concept of writing within constraints – a creative endeavour that challenges traditional norms and encourages unique approaches to storytelling. Constraints, far from limiting creativity, can serve as catalysts for innovation, pushing us to think outside the conventional boundaries of language and narrative structure.
Fostering Creativity
Constraints force us to find inventive solutions, sparking creativity as we navigate within defined parameters.
Breaking Patterns
By imposing rules, we disrupt habitual writing patterns, opening new avenues for expression and experimentation.
Your Turn
Q3. Writing with constraints (40 min)
Select One or Two Rules: From the provided list, choose one or two rules that intrigue you.
See Working Document for details.
Commit to the Constraints: Once you've chosen your constraints, commit to adhering to them throughout the exercise.
See Working Document for details.
Write Within the Constraints: Set a timer for 40 minutes and begin writing according to the chosen rules.
See Working Document for details.
Reflect on the Experience.
See Working Document for details.
Take notes as needed in Exercise 1.3 in your Working Document.
Congratulations!
You have now successfully learned:
How to use sound as a springboard for writing
Different approaches to listening
Embracing constraints in writing