As 2003 was growing old, and 2004 was kicking away in the womb of Time, I found myself making the following wish for the coming year:

May the year ahead give me many inspirations for song.

Whether joyous, or heartbreaking, or meditative, or silly, it didn't seem to matter -- not in that deep part of my mind that opens up in the quiet time between waking and sleeping -- just that I want my life full of moments that so move me I need to express them in song (I know, I know -- be careful what you wish for).

But that raised a question which I thought might spark some good Mudcat Discussion: Are there certain ideas or feelings or messages that can only be expressed in song, and not an essay, or letter, or painting (or internet post)?

And if so, what is it about song that sets it apart from other forms of expression?