Damien Rice … what in the world are you doing to me?

I love listening to music while writing. Having music on makes it easier to concentrate somehow. That’s how it used to be, anyway. All that changed a few weeks ago when I “discovered” Damien Rice.

See, my music knowledge is extremely limited. Until very recently I probably knew less than two dozen artists. If I find someone I like, I listen to them over and over. Obsessive? Yes, a bit … at the very least. But, I’m not one to crave variety. I love intensity. If I already like something, then why change?

Lately though, I’ve been more open to listening to new songs. To new musicians. It’s part of the process of becoming a better writer. You can get ideas from everything that touches your life. At least that’s how it is for me. Every word, every sound, every person has the potential to become a new story. This is one of the reasons I can’t imagine ever running out of writing ideas. Is that a good thing … or a bad thing? Depends on how good of a writer I can become. What’s the use of being prolific if I’m lousy?!?

Back to Damien Rice: in case you didn’t know, he’s an Irish singer and songwriter. I first heard him sing a few weeks ago. His is not the best music I’ve ever heard, but I can tell you that no song has ever affected me as fast as his music does. His voice, the guitar sounds, the background music … to me they are amazing. I played his songs for someone close to me and they weren’t impressed. Me? I have a hard time concentrating once I start listening to him.

If I had to choose a favorite song it would be “I don’t want to change you”. Or “Delicate”. Or “Volcano”. Or … darn it, it’s hard to choose. I like everything I’ve listened to so far. But, as I said, his music makes it hard for me to concentrate. How, you wonder? Funny you should ask!

It’s a double effect actually:

• part of me feels like I’m reading a super hot romance. Most people experience certain … physical reactions when reading such stories. I’m no exception.

I hope I don’t have to tell you what those reactions are. If you wonder what I’m talking about then you should read one of those stories because you’ve been in a cold … dry place for too long. The opposite awaits on the other side aaand, let me tell you, it’s a fun place to be in.

• The other part of me feels inspired to write my own super steamy story. The problem? My “weak” body is too busy enjoying all kinds of hot sensations and makes it hard for my mind to come up with any kind of writing … steamy or not.

So, Mr. Damien Rice, you’ve created quite a dilemma for me. The same thing that fuels my X-rated imagination is also distracting me. Sending my mind flying to dizzying heights of creativity while making my body sink in a deep sea of sensations.

What’s a romance author to do then? Listen to Damien Rice while trying to write, of course. See it as some kind of Jedi training. “Conquer your weakness you must, my young apprentice, and a strength shall it become!” Do I make a good Yoda? Maybe I’ll write a sequel for “Star Wars” in the near future. I can already see the excitement in George Lucas’s face once he hears the news.

Going back to Damien Rice now. I need some inspiration!