How’s that old song go? “If I only knew then what I know now”?
“Then” in my case, was three years ago, when I started working on the book. Not too long after writing the first few chapters, Charles–the main character–began to demonstrate, almost by osmosis, his love of music, and his fondness for his iPod. Before I knew it the iPod, and the music it contains, became one of the book’s key themes. The lyrics Charles listens to influence his moods and introduce discussions about despair and hopelessness, about perception and potential, and, finally, about money and true freedom.
Of course, while writing, I knew I’d have to eventually obtain permission for those lyrics. What I underestimated was the effort involved. Six months into it (and notwithstanding the counsel by some to simply ditch the lyrics – but how could I? That iPod defines Charles), I’m almost there.
I had to substitute some lyrics along the way (The Beatles? Very costly. Pink Floyd? Too time-consuming), but thanks to a kind and helpful Permissions Administrator (who I will give a Twitter shout-out to once he, ahem, gives me permission to do so), I managed to wind my way through the, seemingly, never-ending maze.
So lesson learned. Next time, get permission closer to the start of the project rather than right at the end.
