I've been listening to a lot of music lately.

Some of it, depressing as it may be called by some, actually hits home with me.

As a writer (or some one who likes to pretend they are) I tend to be influenced by things that go on around me. When I'm writing something and I'm stuck because I can't find the right words or put myself in the right mindset for that particular scene or emotion, I find music helps.

If I'm writing about a character who has lost everything/can't figure out their life/has gone through something painful I listen to 'depressing' music.

It really helps.

I like listening to lyrics and putting my own ideas into what I think the artist is singing about.

I tend to do that with art too.

That's why I love art. Musical, literature or ART in every sense of the word.

It affects you.

It affects me hardcore. I can be moved to tears by a song, a portrait. I can be brought to the edge of happiness and back by the same things.

Some one said to me that if I listen to 'depressing' music I'll more than likely be depressed myself.

That can be true. Music with sorrowful lyrics or low tones some times makes me cry.

But I love it.

Music is my religion. It saved my life and helps me retain my sanity. I'm one of those people who does NOT do well in quiet places.

But enough ranting. I certainly went on and on, didn't I? I'm not sure if this makes sense to any one but me, but here it is.

Do with it what you will.