Lyrically Speaking, Vol. 1

In this episode, hosts J Ryan and Keira dive into the world of music to discuss how the structure and conventions of the modern pop song provides fertile ground for excellent writing, and they share their favorite examples of stellar lyrics from songs over the past 70 years.

Episode highlights:

02:41 Structure, constraints, and good writing

05:36 Character is King: Music Edition

12:55 A masterclass of concise writing

17:30 Wait, the song is about that?

21:29 A band transforms

24:40 Correcting the record on a tortured artist

28:05 A self-deprecating character study

32:50 The song is the same, you’re the one who changed

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About the Podcast

The Write Note

Fun and informative discussion on writing and publication for the independent author

The Write Note is a podcast dedicated to independent authors who have a passion for writing, a love of storytelling, and an interest in the independent publishing process. It is hosted by 20-year indie author J Ryan Fenzel and his daughter, Keira F Jacobs, a newbie just getting started on the writer's road. Topic-of-the-month episodes focus on key elements of creative writing and storytelling through tips, tricks, picks, reviews and recommendations. Interview episodes delve into the writing life with indie authors and explore the path to book production with industry professionals. Each show begins with a segment called Character Is King, where the hosts each share a notable fictional character and break down why they're amazing creations. The Write Note is a monthly podcast, and episodes drop at 6:00AM on the first Wednesday of each month.

About your hosts

J Ryan Fenzel

J Ryan Fenzel is a Michigan author who blends the rich landscape and history of the Great Lakes region with engaging action & adventure storytelling to craft a unique brand of contemporary thriller. In 2006 his debut novel DESCENDING FROM DUTY received widespread acclaim and set the standard of well-balanced plot, action, and characterization that would become the hallmark of his follow-up titles INHERIT ALL THINGS and ALLIED IN IRONS. Fenzel's fourth novel, EQUAL MEASURE, solidified his position as a growing voice in the theatre of action and adventure. In addition to writing, Fenzel has owned and operated Ironcroft Publishing, an independent publishing proprietorship, for 17 years.
You can find him on Instagram @authorjryanfenzel and at his website www.jryanfenzel.com

Keira F. Jacobs

Keira F. Jacobs is a ya fantasy author. Her debut novel, THE TESTIMONY OF BENDIGO FLETCHER, released Nov. 2022. She has a passion for creating stories that explore deeply rooted emotions and pens characters who are relatable and raw. Her faith in God pushes her to chase the dream He has set in her heart.
She loves to help other authors in their own journey and is passionate about supporting the author community.
You can find her on Instagram @keira.f.jacobs and on Tik Tok @authorkeira.f.jacobs