How do I write from someone else’s perspective?
Why Write from Another Perspective?
- To explore themes you haven’t personally experienced
- To tell a story (narrative songwriting)
- To connect with more listeners through universal situations
- To take on a role (like an actor) for artistic effect
Types of Perspectives You Can Write From
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Perspective
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Example Use
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First person (“I”)
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You become the character
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Second person (“You”)
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Speaking to someone else’s experience
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Third person (“He/She”)
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Narrating a story about someone else
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Tips for Writing in Another Voice
1. Choose a clear character
- Are they young or old? Strong or broken? Optimistic or angry?
2. Use imagination + observation
- Combine empathy with detail.
What would they say? What do they want? What do they fear?
3. Change your language
- Use vocabulary, tone, and slang that fits their world.
4. Focus on motivation
- Great character-driven songs reveal why someone acts or feels a certain way.
Pro Tip
Even when writing as someone else, tell the emotional truth. You’re still writing through yourself, just wearing a different mask.
Bottom Line
Writing from another perspective is creative empathy. Imagine a life, feel the feelings, and let your song become their voice.
