By Pankaj Debbarma
Music has the unique ability to touch our souls, evoke emotions, and inspire personal growth. Among the multitude of artists who have graced the music industry, Ben Howard stands out as a poet of the heart, a lyricist who weaves stories that resonate with the human experience. His songs, often characterized by their introspective and contemplative nature, have the power to make us “grow, steady as the morning…older still,…happy as a new dawn.” In this article, we will explore how Ben Howard’s music serves as a catalyst for personal growth and happiness.
- The Power of Relatability: Ben Howard’s lyrics are deeply personal and introspective, addressing themes of love, loss, self-discovery, and the passage of time. Listeners often find themselves relating to the raw emotions expressed in his songs. This relatability allows us to confront our own experiences and emotions, fostering self-awareness and growth. When we see our own struggles mirrored in his music, we realize we are not alone in our journey.
- Emotional Catharsis: Music has the extraordinary ability to serve as an emotional release valve. Ben Howard’s music, with its haunting melodies and poignant lyrics, provides a safe space for listeners to process their emotions. Whether it’s the melancholy strains of “Promise” or the hopeful notes of “Keep Your Head Up,” his songs guide us through a cathartic journey of self-reflection, helping us to let go of pent-up feelings and find solace.
- The Art of Resilience: One recurring theme in Howard’s music is resilience in the face of adversity. Songs like “The Fear” and “I Forget Where We Were” remind us that life is filled with challenges, but it’s our ability to persevere that defines us. His music encourages us to confront our fears, embrace change, and find strength in vulnerability.
- Timeless Wisdom: Ben Howard’s lyrics are imbued with timeless wisdom that transcends generations. “Old Pine” and “Small Things” are not just songs; they are life lessons set to music. His words remind us to cherish the simple joys in life and not to overlook the beauty in the everyday.
- A Journey to Happiness: As we journey through the emotional landscapes of Ben Howard’s music, we ultimately arrive at a place of happiness and contentment. His songs teach us that happiness is not a constant state but a fleeting moment to be cherished. It’s the feeling of being “happy as a new dawn” after weathering life’s storms. It’s finding joy in the small moments, like the warmth of the sun on our face.
Ben Howard’s music is a testament to the transformative power of art. It takes us on a journey of self-discovery, helps us confront our emotions, and teaches us the value of resilience and happiness. Through his soulful lyrics and haunting melodies, Howard reminds us that personal growth and happiness are not destinations but continuous processes, and that, in the words of his songs, we can indeed “grow, steady as the morning…older still,…happy as a new dawn”.
- YouTube link of some of his tracks.
- https://youtu.be/x8ccDb6n5Wg?si=bMOgMkzXQAQlnKgH
- https://youtu.be/OYR6A47DK-Q?si=nU_Inu-SPcgT0W24
