Writing Better Lyrics

A professor of lyric writing at Berklee College of Music, Pattison, who has worked with such professionals as Gillian Welch and John Mayer, guides aspiring songwriters through the components of successful songwriting in this updated and expanded version of his 1995 work. Containing 50 songwriting exercises, examples from popular songs, and new chapters on couplets, common meter, and prosody, this handbook covers techniques for lyric development, verse continuity, and avoiding cliches, as well as tips for working with a co-writer. Anecdotes from Pattison's life and career illustrate key points and chapters include diagrams explaining his methodologies. Annotation 2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)