I recently realized that certain songs tend to get me in the mood–to write, that is. I decided to keep a list of these inspiring, creativity-inducing songs, and noticed a particular pattern: It seems I am most inspired by songs that include piano, and/or by mellow melodies rich with melancholy, and/or by heartbreaking lyrics I wish I had written myself. Here is my ever-lengthening Writing Playlist:

1. Fine Frenzy, “Almost Lover”
2. Coldplay, “The Scientist”
3. Gary Jules, “Mad World”
4. The entire soundtrack to the film Dances with Wolves
5. Counting Crows, “Colorblind”
6. Bob Dylan, “Boots of Spanish Leather”
7. Adele, “Someone Like You”
8. Ben Folds, “Fred Jones Part 2”
9. Evanescence, “My Immortal”
10. Rhett Miller, “Come Around”
11. Straylight Run, “Existentialism on Prom Night”
12. Dashboard Confessional, “So Long Sweet Summer”

What kind of music awakens your muse?