That Which Cannot Remain Silent

"Music expresses that which cannot be put into words, and that which cannot remain silent." -Victor Hugo

How true Hugo's quote rings! Everyone loves music. No matter what form it may take, music finds a way to express our innermost desires, hopes, wishes, feelings, and thoughts. That's why people like it so much, because it makes comprehensible what we cannot express ourselves. There is also the fact that a single song can have many interpretations. We're all different, so our perceptions and interpretations are, too.

So, I want to share some music I really like (each song name will have a link so you can listen to it!). I can't express all that these songs do and say for me. There aren't words to do that. But, I will do my best.

• A song for Courage: Stronger by Kelly Clarkson

When I went through my tremendous change of attitude, I found this song on iTunes. It fit perfectly for what I felt, because what I went through just about killed me: "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger, stand a little taller ... What doesn't kill you makes a fighter, footsteps even lighter." These words are my anthem! And though this is technically a break-up song, I still think it works. One could relate the person Kelly's talking to to whatever kept him or her down. Either way, Stronger helps me do the difficult things life throws at me, and do them with my head held high.

• A song for Loneliness: Lost by Michael Buble 

There have been quite a few times in my life when I've wondered whether I was doing anything right, or if anyone could hear me. A friend posted this song on Facebook, and when I listened to it, the tears just came! Michael's heartbroken crooning filled the void, so to speak. Sometimes songs are great reminders of what we have, and this one was no exception. We are never alone. Even when it feels as if no one in the world knows what you're going through, God is there. He always will be.

• For Frustration: No Roads Left by Linkin Park

At one time or another, we've all felt so frustrated that we either want to cry or punch something, whether the feeling is aimed at ourselves or something else. No Roads Left acts as my output, because for me, most of my frustrations come from myself. It voices exactly how I feel. So really, all you need to do is listen to it. Another reason I love this song is because of the singer's voice; there's something about it that makes me shiver.

• For Anticipation: In the Mood by The Andrews Sisters 

My situation for this one is kind of silly, but it works. So, I was getting ready for my first date, and I almost couldn't breathe because of nervousness! My iPod was playing, and this beauty came on. Among the jovial jazz band and peppy vocals, the song talks about "getting in the mood" for a fun evening of dancing. It describes both sides of the evening, the girl's and the boy's, which fit my situation perfectly. After listening to In the Mood, I couldn't wait to go on that date! Even though the circumstances have changed, I still refer to this song whenever I am nervous or excited for something. What better way than with music from the '40s?

• For Feeling Good: My Body by Young the Giant

Don't you just love when life is so good you want to dance? This song definitely matches those emotions with its upbeat guitar and expressive vocals. Plus, the message works for any situation: "My body tells me no, but I want more!" Exercising, partying (the virtuous and alcohol-free kind), staying awake, studying, the list goes on and on. A part of me feels like this song talks about self-mastery, too, and how good it feels to have it. I like listening to this whenever I've done something fun, hard, or exciting. 

• For Finding Oneself: Gonna Get Over You by Sara Bareilles

First off, the music of this little ditty could make anyone smile. Lively yet meaningful piano and guitar chords lure the listener to what Sara really has to say. She talks about breaking away from the smothering bonds of a relationship, and becoming what she wants to be. Much like Stronger, I don't necessarily relate this song to a person. I make it match whatever's been holding me back. In fact, my post "The Other Side of Someday" is named after a line in this song. If you want to really find out what I think about this song, read that. But, I will say that Gonna Get Over You boosts one to get out of the mess they're in. 

• For Peace: Gracie's Theme by Paul Cardall

Among all the precious masterpieces in Paul Cardall's new album, this one especially struck me. I love the initial feathery-lightness of the piano, and then its beautiful shift to gentle, quiet power. There really isn't much more I can convey about this song. What I feel about it seems too pure for words, if you know what I mean. 

• For Thought: How To Save A Life by The Fray

Ultimately, this is one of my most favorite songs. As you've already noted, it is the namesake for this blog. In How To Save A Life, the vocalists narrates the experiences of an individual trying to save someone. I have found that I can connect with both the rescuer and the one needing rescued. I can use my abilities to help someone, but at the same time, I am the one who needs some guidance. You see, life happens. We make decisions, so do other people, and we must do the best we can with what we have. Sometimes, though, our best isn't good enough, and we must have aid to get through. So many people in my life have given me that friendly hand to hold on to, and I want more than anything to be that person for someone else. That's why I love this song so much; it's as if it illustrates an entire life in the space of four minutes. Again, I cannot touch on everything that moves me in this song, but I do hope you have discovered a little bit of the love and understanding I have for it, as well as for all the other music I listed.