Thoughts on Italy, Songwriting Pitfalls, & Meeting Julia Roberts

Okay, so I feel like I’ve fallen into a creative pit lately. Notes and melodies swirl around in my head, but nothing quite clicks. Lyrics come in a flash and then drop into the portal of no return. They’re like lost travelers without a destination. And speaking of travelers, I’m finally planning my dream trip to Italy this year!

I’m already imagining the warmth of the Mediterranean sun, the gentle rustle of olive trees, and the ancient cobblestone streets whispering stories of bygone eras. If anything can break through my songwriting block, this has got to be it. I’m hoping the embrace of a culture soaked in romance, history, and possibly the best pasta I’ll ever taste (from what I’ve heard) will do the trick to help me unwind and unlock my thoughts.

As a songwriter here recently, inspiration has been like a mirage in the desert for me; when you think you see something clear as day, but then it vanishes. But Italy, aah, Italy—it’s a living, breathing work of art, culture, history, and the food I’ve heard about from others who’ve visited, ooh honey, if inspiration doesn’t kick in there, then I don’t know! I just watched Julia Roberts in Eat, Pray Love for the twentieth time, remembering the scene from when she went to Italy. (Allow me to digress a moment here... I love Julia Roberts and have been a fan since seeing earlier movie roles such as Pretty Woman, Notting Hill, My Best Friend’s Wedding, Steel Magnolias, and her many movies before and after! I would so love to meet her! She’s got such a great smile, and that infectious laugh gives me that “She’s probably a great friend and person” vibe. (Okay, focusing back on the point) Anyway, this trip will give me the inspiration I’ve been craving. And I’m not just talking about the tourist must-sees. It’s the in-between moments I’m yearning for—sipping espresso in a quaint little Italian cafe, visiting the local markets to pick up a few items to fill the fridge in the rental apartment I’m going to be staying at, and dining at some of the smaller family-owned restaurants off the beaten track of the touristy spots.

Lyrics have been playing a long game of hide and seek with me. Life has been so hectic that my thoughts are soscattered when I sit down to focus on writing. Seeing a new place, experiencing a different culture, and being able to relax and not focus on anything except enjoying the moments, I think, will be the eye-opener I need. It’s been proven that self-care leads to better emotional well-being, and I think that getting away, spending time in a different location, and taking time for yourself can be a great way to rejuvenate. 

This trip will welcome a new collaboration; Italy’s cultural legacy, and I will write a song together. I’m curious about the stories that will unfold, the characters that will emerge in my lyrics from random passerbyers. Anyway, the melodies will be born from the experience I plan to take full advantage of. I can’t wait!! I wonder if the busy streets of Florence or Rome will inspire a vibrant, up-tempo or if the night of romance by the couple I picture walking together holding hands might inspire a love ballad. Only time and travel will tell, but I just renewed my passport, and I’m set to go.

So, here’s to new experiences, fresh ideas, and finding inspiration within the backdrop of a beautiful country. This trip has been long in the “waiting” and will earn me a check off on the “To do” list! And on that note, I’d like to say thanks for being here. I appreciate and welcome the support as I share the highs and lows and every which way it goes when you choose this path in life. But when you’re doing what you love, it’s worth it!

Thank you to Wolfgang Weiser for the thumbnail photo.

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