What Bruce Springsteen Taught Me About Writing
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Writing Speaking -> subcategory Other.
What Bruce Springsteen Taught Me About Writing
This year marks the 30th anniversary of Bruce Springsteen's iconic album Born to Run. To celebrate, Columbia Records has re-released it with a treasure trove of audio and video extras, including interviews where Springsteen shares insights into the album's creation. As a fan, I’ve eagerly devoured this content. What stands out most is how Springsteen overcame immense pressure while crafting this masterpiece. His record label was on the verge of dropping him, so he knew this was his moment to shine.
When people ask me, "How do I know if my work is good enough?" I think of Springsteen. Back then, he wasn't asking anyone at the record company if they thought he was good enough. Instead, he figured it out on his own. Here’s what I learned from his journey:
1. Learn from the Greats
In the summer of 1974, instead of dwelling on the disappointing reception of his first two albums, Springsteen immersed himself in songwriting. "I had a record player by my bed," he writes in Songs. "I'd listen to Roy Orbison, the Ronettes, the Beach Boys, and other '60s legends, appreciating their craft and power." Rather than thinking he couldn’t compete, Springsteen asked himself, "What can I add to the conversation?" He drew inspiration and education from them simultaneously.
2. Aspire to Greatness
In an interview about Born to Run, Springsteen revealed he was aware that his record label was close to cutting ties. He said, "I knew I had to write something great." He could have simply accepted defeat and stayed in Asbury Park. But instead of questioning his talents, he pushed himself to create something extraordinary. Ask yourself: What are you working on right now that challenges you to greatness? What would it take to adopt this mindset?
3. Seek Trusted Feedback
It’s challenging to assess your work’s progress alone, which is why having a trusted circle for feedback is crucial. Jon Landau became that trusted ear for Springsteen, providing valuable input. Who could serve this role for you? Keep the circle small to avoid overwhelming creative judgment with too many opinions.
4. Try Something New
Interestingly, many songs on Born to Run were written on piano, despite Springsteen's association with a Fender guitar. This shift offered fresh ideas and opportunities, giving the album an emotional and intimate feel. What can you do differently to inspire your next creative leap? Perhaps set your novel in a different era, or write from a new perspective. Remember, no effort is wasted; even mistakes offer learning opportunities.
5. Write with Universal Appeal
Springsteen's Born to Run characters became "less eccentric and less local," making them relatable to anyone, anywhere. Millions connected with its universal themes. Similarly, I aimed for broad connection in my novel All I Need to Get By. Readers from all backgrounds have related to its characters and themes. How can you widen your story’s reach while staying true to its essence?
If doubt lingers, consider Emerson’s wisdom: "Whatever course you decide upon, there is always someone to tell you that you are wrong... To map out a course and follow it to an end requires… courage." Be courageous. Your own Born to Run might be waiting to emerge.
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