stories from songs – and so she thinks

Pulp Fiction

admin — Mon, 26 Jun 2017 08:26:06 +0000

A couple of years ago, inspired by our love of music and words, we gathered together stories written by lots of talented people to curate the Stories from Songs project, a collection of short stories inspired by lyrics from songs, a zine of the stories, and an event where talented musicians performed covers of the songs and actors performed and read aloud.

To celebrate the twentieth anniversary of the release of Pulp’s Different Class we asked people to do the same with some of Jarvis Cocker’s finest songs.

Jarvis Cocker’s lyrical genius, acerbic wit and perceptive eye are one of the elements that enabled Pulp to connect so well back in the nineties, and continue to transcend the vagaries of time to communicate with individuals so acutely.In his book Mother, Brother, Lover Jarvis (as well as acknowledging that his lyrics are ‘alright’) states that his songs are always about narrative. It’s the story that matters.

Songs may be a story about a character. The lyrics could be shrewd and perceptive observations that make a comment on life. Or they may be an interesting blend of words and phrases that trigger an emotional response in you. You may see a tale within the tune. Or one which goes beyond its final chords. Explore what happens to the character once the song ends. Take the title and spin your own fantasy from it.

Or something else entirely.

This is the result. This is Pulp Fiction.

Stories from Songs

admin — Sat, 24 Jun 2017 12:31:02 +0000

Welcome to Stories From Songs, a zine inspired by the tale within the tune.

It turns out that we were not the only ones who thought this project would be a good idea. We were overwhelmed by the support and smiles that we have received in bringing together all the stories into this zine.

Using the premise of furthering the story, our contributors have followed the life of the protagonist after the final chords have ended, reflecting the feeling that the song insights. The stories are varied; subjects spanning a whole spectrum of emotions, events and styles that rightfully demonstrates the wealth of talented writers involved in this project.

Read, listen and enjoy x

Stories From Songs.

Francesca Baker & Jamie Malcolm

Stories From Songs

admin — Wed, 04 Sep 2013 12:54:47 +0000

Very pleased to announce the launch of Stories From Songs, the collection of stories inspired by the best thing in the world, music. With submissions from people all over the country, based on all kinds of genres, written all different subjects and spanning numerous styles, it’s a collection of the best kind of community creativity. Huge thanks to all the writers, Mark J Winter and Jamie Malcolm.
Enjoy.

Stories From Songs – Launch photos

admin — Mon, 02 Sep 2013 21:42:55 +0000

Some snaps from the launch of the Stories From Songs magazine. A great night at The Gallery Cafe with Drew Worthley, Kat Head, Pandora’s Diary, Neill Blokland, Chris Jones, Emily Lockwood, and Thom Barrett. Thanks to Sarah Kate Michel and Mike Cockin for the photos.

Stories from songs – live!

admin — Tue, 30 Jul 2013 08:43:40 +0000

Launch event at The Gallery Cafe, Bethnal Green. Friday August 30th, 7.30pm

Still time to get involved!

Stories about songs was set up by Francesca and Jamie due to a love of the aforementioned “s” words and general delight found in music and words.

They also can never sit still and dabble in zine making so little projects like this are somewhat perfect.

A publication of short stories inspired by songs is to be published this summer – and we would love you to get involved.

Experience has taught us that some people like rules to work with. It makes them feel better. So if you are one of those, here are 6 general guidelines to bounce off. If you prefer to think of yourself as free spirited or just down right disobedient you may ignore…it is all about creativity after all.

1) Stories can be inspired by a song, follow the protagonists after the chords have ended, reflect the feeling that it incites in you, be a total tangent influenced by the title – whatever. Basically, pick a song, and write.

2) There are no limits to the genre of song – we recognise that some people do get their kicks from hardcore slasher mixed with dubstep beats. However we do ask that it is *moderately* well known – i.e not something you and your mates knocked up in the garage on two tin cans and washboard.

3) Stories should be roughly 400 -1000 words. That said, if you have a killer line, some great flash fiction, or a more epic musing, do send it.

4) Submit stories to storiesfromsongs@live.com You can try other methods, but we might not see it.

5) All stories will of course be credited, so send your name, and a brief bio if you wish.

6) Obviously, we will also need to know what the song that inspired you to write is…