THE FISHER KING SOUNDTRACK

One question I get asked quite often, by other writers especially, is if I listen to music when I write. The answer is yes and no. I don’t have to listen to music when I write, but sometimes I’m in the mood to listen to music, so I do. I definitely cannot listen to the Hamilton Soundtrack when I write because I’m so distracted by Lin-Manuel Miranda’s brilliant writing and the story that he’s telling that I get nothing done. Occasionally, I’ll listen to music I think my character would like to try to get in their headspace. But, generally, music isn’t required for me to get words on the page.

What I love doing, however, is making a soundtrack for my books. I created one for Stillwater—I’m pretty sure creating it was a procrastination tool—and when I finished The Fisher King, I wanted to create one for it. There is so much going on in this book, so many different moods, and the playlist reflects that. You have classic country for Ellie’s frame of mind, a gritty rock song for Eddie, Florence and the Machine for Susan and Brian, and some Coldplay for Jack. Bet you didn’t know that Jack liked Coldplay. Don’t hold it against him.

Numb by Airborne Toxic Event – Can’t think of a more appropriate summation of where Jack and Ellie are at the beginning of the book.

Hurts Like Heaven by Coldplay – An extension of the first song. Jack and Ellie are suffering through a separation hoping that the payoff at the end will be worth it.

I Fall to Pieces by Patsy Cline – Ellie is a huge fan of classic country, especially Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn and Tammy Wynette. Considering her horrible history with men, is it any surprise she relates to songs about women wronged by their men?

Time to Pretend by MGMT – There are lots of people pretending in this book, playing a role. This song works for multiple characters, Jack, Ellie, Eddie, Julie, Fred.

Long Road to Ruin by Foo Fighters – If I told you who this song represented it might be a spoiler, so I’ll let you read The Fisher King and figure it out.

Kiss with a Fist by Florence and the Machine – One thing I only got a chance to touch on in this book is family history and how it shapes us, and people’s perception of us. Brian Grant comes from a long line of abusers and most of the town thinks he’s one as well. Whether or not he is or isn’t, so many times perception is reality. On the other hand, the McBride brothers are known for their temper as well.

Battleflag by Pigeonhead (EXPLICIT) – Eddie’s song. All the way. His theme music.

What She Came For by Franz Ferdinand – Oh, Julie. I’m sorry everyone hates you so much. I tried to give you some shading, but it’s tough to make a woman who left her family on her son’s birthday sympathetic.

Landslide by Fleetwood Mac – This is all about where Ellie & Kelly’s relationship is at the end of the book.

Fire Woman by The Cult – I couldn’t end the playlist on a slow song. This is Ellie’s song, though the lyric, ‘Fire woman, you’re to blame’ doesn’t fit her character. Or does it? You’ll have to read The Fisher King to find out!