Music as an Art (Ramble-licious)

I am realizing things. Firstly Post Secret is an incredible site. Secondly, the other day, I was talking to a friend and they helped me realize that while my musical tastes had been expanding in one direction, across genres, it was contracting in another, subject matter. Most of the music I listen to currently is music that explicitly calls for social or political change, from Rage Against the Machine to Wyclef Jean to Johnny Cash. This tends to discount other positive attributes of music. Firstly, she recomended a song about the artist's boyfriend committing suicide. It sounded like a very interesting, affective song, even though it doesn't fall into what I would usually listen to. Also, sheer skill. Originally I liked Guns n' Roses in large part because Slash is an absolutely incredible guitarist, but I haven't really listened to my Gn'R albums lately. Essentially, I realized that there are several different characteristics of music which traverse genre, and that not being dismissive of entire genres does not alone show open mindedness to all forms of music as an art. I think that trying to open myself to different subject matters of music may also have the benefit of allowing me to think and write in different ways, helping me find more things to write about, while at the same time increasing my musical versatility. Additionally, I have found that my attitude towards music is different from my attitude toward poetry. When I wrote poetry I was (at least initially) very reluctant to show anybody my writings, I was terribly afraid that they would be found wanting. However, with music, I am excited and eager to share, though there is of course the slight nervous anticipation of hearing what others think. I am unsure why this difference is, except perhaps, that while I know several people who write poetry, there is no one to compare music to, at least in my immediate circles of friends. This, I think, alleviates some pressure, since I think that in a room full of guitarists, I would feel self conscious about my music as well. Anyway, I hope that I can get going on some music again, I have a lot of ideas, many of which just need some form. It'll be all good. Peace out, and word to your mothers.