Cabinet Item: (Song) “Mad World” by Gary Jules ft. Michael Andrews

This song has inspired me through the way it conveys poignancy through simplicity.

Using only voice and piano, this remake of the popular 1982 “Tears For Fears” hit creates a sense of pressing melancholy through a simple message, slow tempo, droning sounds and lack of instrumentation.

Though it’s not exactly the kind of music that can be enjoyed, it’s efficacy in representing the sombre sense of hopelessness increasingly found in modern society can be appreciated.

Put simply, this song has shown me that things need not be overcomplicated to create meaning, or convey a message appropriately and effectively. This can relate to many aspects of life, particularly writing.

By Ryan Brailsford
Sources: Video link found on “http://www.garyjules.com/media/videos.php?p=46″ linked to “www.youtube.com”