The other day, John and I were walking through Meijer and having a philosophical discussion about modern music and how it shapes relationships. I was proposing that the music we hear most often (for example, on the radio) during pivotal sexual developmental stages (around 6 - 12 years old) has a direct effect on how we judge, relate to, define, and insert ourselves into relationships when we are older.
For me, this would have been mid to late '90s music. I was wondering if we, as a generation, idolize certain elements that we may hear in a song or songs as defining a relationship as good or bad. An example of this would be the "coffee house romance" (touched on by Jewel in "Meant For Me", among others, not to mention the show 'Friends'). I've even heard of coffee used as a metaphor for relationships, as "addicting and bitter". From Buffy. Secondly, there's the whole "caught in the rain" idea, symbolic of the possession of a carefree, restless, rebellious and impulsive spirit, touched on in this song.
Longwinded as this preface may be, Jewel seems to be a big contributor to my own, personal mindset when it comes to relationships. She seems to romanticize the banalities of relationships, and tries to recreate them in her private life. Examples of this would be the mention of eggs and pancakes, reading the newspaper, going to a matinee movie, reading a book before bed, getting caught in the rain, calling her mom, etc (Meant For Me).
In my love life, this translates into focusing in on those tiny details, those seemingly unimportant moments and embracing them as special and unique to my own relationship (which is also evident in my photography style...hm...). Also, I love coffee. And coffee houses. But with regard to that, I had no chance as a '90s child.
Just some food for thought. It's fun to reflect on, if you like that kind of thing. :) I encourage you to analyze your own ideas and idolizations when it comes to romance as shaped by music, and to share them with me and your friends! (PS- Advance warning: there is a slight audio malfunction about 2/3 of the way through... my computer beeped... meh heh...)
Eric and I have had this conversation several times within the ten years we have been together. I would write all that we have discussed, but that would be one long winded comment. So, we'll just have to discuss over coffee sometime :)
ReplyDeleteTo give you at least a small tidbit, I grew up with mostly 70s/80s rock. So lots and lots of ballads and music about love. One song that resonated with me when I read this post was "I would do anything for love" by Meat Loaf. But, there are many many more that influenced me.
One of my favorites.....almost sounds like rain in the background. Great job..I couldn't be more proud of you !
ReplyDeleteThanks, Dad! :) One of my favorites too.
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