What if we structured conversations like songs? Would that help us listen more deeply to each other? Would structuring conversation like a song set us up to learn something together that could be remembered, developed, repeated, and shared easily and artfully with others?
While there is a lot of variation on song structure, we can start with these pieces: Introduction; Verse; Chorus; Bridge; Improvisation; and The Takeaway (the gift).
Introduction (for alignment)
Holding space for introductions in a conversation and in a song sets the theme. It helps the players align. While throughout the song we may depart, especially during improvisation, we can come back together on the theme that is introduced up front. The theme gives us the tools to get to a resolution and send each other off with a takeaway to share in other conversations.
Verse (the problem)
Let me say, I’m not a songwriter. But I could see a scenario where the verse sets up the problem. It paints a picture that causes tension. And since there are multiple verses in a song, the problem can be described in multiple ways just as problems appear in life in multiple ways. The steady underlying structure of the verse helps us hear the problem and say, “O, I recognize you.”
Chorus (the resolution)
The chorus can serve as the resolution to the problem. It may include a hook, a memorable and strong element that guides us back repeatedly, resolving the tension. The chorus can be like a lighthouse in the fog.
Bridge (for nuance)
To me, a bridge is like saying, ‘But wait, there’s more.’ It’s a place to put an extra layer of detail, a place to add some complexity or nuance that sits outside the established pattern of verse/chorus.
Improvisation (for discovery)
Once the relationship between the pieces of a song are established, we have the freedom to explore. To stray from an established pattern in small or big ways. We can take what we learned from the song and take some risks, push at the boundaries. Sometimes we discover something great out there in the wild. Other times we dig a hole. But eventually we find our way out and that can be great, too.
The Takeaway (the gift)
It’s probably most common for the chorus to provide the takeaway. The piece of the song that sticks in our heads that we carry out into the world and share with others. But the takeaway can also be an unexpected line or phrase. No matter where it is in the song, it’s the thing that sticks to our imagination. The thing we share with others. The Gift.
TUNING Design Co. 