Songwriting as Soul Work
Now Available!
Songwriting as Soul Work: Songs and the Inner Life
by Lynn Harrison
Where to Find It
Queen Books
Indigo Books
Amazon
FriesenPress
Or contact Lynn directly: lynn (at) lynnharrison.ca
Reviews
An inspiring resource
"A brilliant and insightful reflection on the power and work of mining songs from the deepest of places and the profound effect that journey can have on us at a soul level. Songwriting organizations should be sharing this book as much as any music business book on how to be successful with your creative journey. An inspiring resource."
David Leask, multi-award-winning songwriter and songwriting educator
Book has the song at its heart
I had the most enjoyable time recently reading a new book written by Lynn Harrison about a craft we share: songwriting. I’ve been writing songs most of my life, more for fun than profit. Songwriting as Soul Work: Songs and the Inner Life had me appreciating my original songs in an entirely new way. Truly unique, it is both a handbook and a guidebook for composers at every stage of their songwriting journeys from the novice to the consummate pro.
Laid out in chapters of a page or two, which are followed by several reflective questions and concepts for songwriters to ponder, this very readable offering serves as a series of lessons for those wanting to derive the most benefit from their musical works. Lynn draws on her experience as a minister to delineate the spiritual benefits of song creation. A talented singer-songwriter, recording artist and performer, Lynn espouses the view that making commercial success the writer’s driving goal can interfere with the true value and deepest meaning behind the songwriter’s practice. Writing songs is good for the soul.
Full of personal anecdotes and insights, and citing the wisdom of other contributors, Lynn provides tools for probing the meaning behind a song’s symbols and imagery, and frees the writer to learn from the process and grow as a person. Whether aspiring, novice or seasoned as a creator, or just an interested party, Songwriting as Soul Work is a five-star read that one can turn to for inspiration again and again.
Sheila White is a lifelong songwriter and author. She is the Music Director at Don Heights Unitarian Congregation in Toronto.