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Playing On Emotions
September 4, 2007

I have a pet theory, one that Mr. Bethanne is tired of hearing about but grudgingly admits has some merits: often, but especially in times of stress, we listen to the music that is most unlike our inner life.

Thus, I -- passionate, moody, conflicted, chaotic -- choose Bach cantatas when I'm working on a complicated project.

Mr. Bethanne (opposites attract!) -- low-key, forthright, reserved, sanguine -- is a blues aficionado. 

My very dear friend C., who is more organized than God, with a place for everything and that includes emotions, relies on Rachmaninoff.

And so on. While I was out shopping yesterday, I heard a favorite Baroque piece in a boutique and it got me thinking about whether or not we choose books the way we choose music. (Now, I could be completely wrong about the music, in which case you should go read Galley Cat instead.) 

My (admittedly very slim) evidence? I'm possibly the most non-linear thinker who ever lived, yet when I'm stressed I love, crave, and devour murder mysteries, especially detective stories and police procedurals, with their step-by-step, cause-and-effect, logical ways. 

How about you?

Posted by Bethanne Patrick on September 4, 2007 | Comments (5)