Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Why I Find "I Want To Hold Your Hand" Rebellious


I listen to different music in different situations. For example, when I have a short walk ahead of me to class, I want something that is going to fire me up with passion for life and a desire to be creative. Today,  I turned to "I Want To Hold Your Hand" by The Beatles. I made this selection instinctively, almost without thinking. So please allow me to pause for a moment and consider what this song does for me (and possibly you).

The history of The Beatles will show that Lennon/McCartney penned the song at the urging of producer Sir George Martin to produce a song that could crossover into America. They took up the task, crafting a track that showcases them fully as a band. Everything that was "The Beatles" at the time can be found in this song. Lennon and McCartney both sing lead. Ringo keeps time in a minimal and respected fashion. George quietly pioneers lead guitar playing in small ways that give the song definition. And it is for these reasons that I find inspiration in it. I listen to it and strive to showcase my full ability in my writing.

I also listen to it and connect with the sentiment that is express; the reflection on love contained in it.  There is a fabulous scene in the movie Nick and Nora's Infinite Playlist in which the song is quoted and championed by a character. And I could not agree with it more. The song is all about that feeling a person gets inside them when their crush is just about bubble out of their soul. He or she just needs to connect with the aim of their affection and holding someone's hands is one of those great ways for a person to communicate without words. This song truly triumphs because it captures that wordless desire in words, something that makes writers great.

Please give this track another listen with a new context to hear it in.