Editor’s note: This is the first in an occasional series on songs to write by, be inspired by, or that capture the freelance spirit. – Michelle
I know ABBA’s not talking about freelancing when they sing “Take a chance on me.” But the lyrics encapsulate the feelings of hopefulness and angst I get sending a story idea to an editor I don’t know, or a proposal to a publication I’d love to work with. Couldn’t you picture yourself singing this to the editor on the other end of the “Send” key:
Gonna do my very best and it ain’t no lie
If you put me to the test, if you let me try
Take a chance on me
(That’s all I ask of you honey)
Take a chance on me
OK, maybe not the “honey” part, and definitely not the come-hither looks Agnetha Fältskog and Anni-Frid Lyngstad give in the video.
Put this in your iTunes library or Pandora playlist for the next time you need inspiration. If you get a “Thanks, but no thanks” note from an editor just hum to yourself: “If you change your mind, I’m the first in line/Honey I’m still free/Take a chance on me.”
I’m collecting freelance-related songs to feature on a regular basis. If there’s something that inspires you, let me know so I can share it.
How cool! Songs to inspire writing. The mental and emotional side of being a writer is an important area to cover and this is a great topic to touch on. Thank you, Michelle.
Glad to you like it. I’ve already got the next song on my freelance playlist picked out — tune in in 2 weeks to see what it is — but if you want to add something let me know.
Michelle
Never There, by Cake
>>You tell me that you care,
But when I need you, (BABY)
Baby, (You’re never there),
This song played on my ipod during a run and I felt like I was talking to myself — those times I sit to work but am not fully present to do my best work. It’s a good kick in the butt for me now, when I’m in a slump.