What I Talk About When I Talk About Running vs. How to Write One Song
What I Talk About When I Talk About Running
by Haruki Murakami. In this book, Murakami shares his thoughts and experiences about running and writing. He talks about how he started running in his 30s and how it became a big part of his life. Running helps him think and gives him ideas for his writing. The book is like a diary where Murakami writes about his runs, the races he joins, and how running affects his life and work. He also talks about getting older and how that changes his running. The book is not just for runners but for anyone who enjoys a good story about trying hard and not giving up.
How to Write One Song
There are few creative acts more mysterious and magical than writing a song. But what if the goal wasn't so mysterious and was actually achievable for anyone who wants to experience more magic and creativity in their life? That's something that anyone will be inspired to do after reading Jeff Tweedy's How to Write One Song. Why one song? Because the difference between one song and many songs isn't a cute semantic trick—it's an important distinction that can simplify a notoriously confusing art form. The idea of becoming a capital-S songwriter can seem daunting, but approached as a focused, self-contained event, the mystery and fear subsides, and songwriting becomes an exciting pursuit. And then there is the energizing, nourishing creativity that can open up. How to Write One Song brings readers into the intimate process of writing one song—lyrics, music, and putting it all together—and accesses the deep sense of wonder that remains at the heart of this curious, yet incredibly...
Top Reviews
@misty-rose-bison-45
I read this book when I first started running long distance. I was living in Chiang Mai and I'd go this huge park a couple of times a week and just run loops around the lake. At the end of my run I'd grab a milk tea and a banana bread from a local coffee shop and just read a few pages. Great memories of many chill evenings, running and reading about running.
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| Easy read | 1 | |
| Motivating | 1 | |
| Peaceful | 1 |
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| Insightful and practical songwriting tips | 1 | |
| Encourages creativity and self-expression | 1 | |
| Accessible for beginners and experienced musicians | 1 | |
| Engaging and conversational writing style | 1 |
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| May be too basic for some | 1 |
Frequently Asked Questions
'What I Talk About When I Talk About Running' by Haruki Murakami focuses on the personal journey of running and its impact on life and creativity. It offers a reflective and motivational perspective that can inspire readers to embrace challenges and persistence. In contrast, 'How to Write One Song' by Jeff Tweedy provides practical insights into the songwriting process, encouraging creativity and self-expression. If you are looking for inspiration related to physical activity and personal growth, Murakami's book may resonate more. However, if you are interested in exploring your creative side through music, Tweedy's book offers actionable advice that can be beneficial.
'How to Write One Song' provides more direct practical advice for creative expression, specifically in the realm of songwriting. It breaks down the process into manageable steps, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced musicians. On the other hand, 'What I Talk About When I Talk About Running' is more reflective and philosophical, focusing on the author's personal experiences with running and writing rather than offering specific techniques for creativity. Therefore, for those seeking actionable guidance in creative pursuits, Tweedy's book is likely the better choice.
'What I Talk About When I Talk About Running' is often seen as more motivating due to its focus on perseverance, personal growth, and the joys of running. Murakami's narrative encourages readers to push through challenges and find meaning in their efforts. Conversely, 'How to Write One Song' motivates through the lens of creativity and self-expression, inspiring readers to engage with their artistic side. The choice between the two depends on whether you find motivation in physical endurance or creative exploration.
'What I Talk About When I Talk About Running' is a book by Haruki Murakami where he shares his thoughts and experiences about running and writing. The book details how Murakami started running in his 30s and how it became a significant part of his life. It serves as a diary where he writes about his runs, the races he participates in, and the impact of running on his life and work. The book also touches on themes of aging and perseverance, making it appealing not just to runners but to anyone who enjoys stories about determination and personal growth.
Pros of 'What I Talk About When I Talk About Running' include it being an easy read, motivating, and peaceful. There are no reported cons at this time.
Haruki Murakami is a renowned Japanese author known for his works of fiction and non-fiction. He has written several bestsellers, including 'Norwegian Wood,' 'Kafka on the Shore,' and '1Q84.' His writing often blends elements of magical realism, surrealism, and existentialism, making his works unique and widely acclaimed. In addition to being an accomplished writer, Murakami is also an avid runner, which he discusses in his memoir 'What I Talk About When I Talk About Running.'
'How to Write One Song' by Jeff Tweedy is a guide that demystifies the process of songwriting, making it accessible to anyone. The book emphasizes the importance of focusing on writing just one song, which can simplify the creative process and reduce the intimidation often associated with songwriting. It covers the entire process from lyrics to music composition, and aims to integrate creativity into daily life, offering hope, inspiration, and joy to those who engage with it.
Pros of 'How to Write One Song' include insightful and practical songwriting tips, encouragement of creativity and self-expression, accessibility for both beginners and experienced musicians, and an engaging, conversational writing style. One con is that the book may be too basic for some readers who are looking for more advanced techniques.
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