The lyrics have nothing to do with our story, but how could I resist?
Chapter 19.
Fleet Foxes - “Mykonos”
This was a tough chapter, since not much “happens” in it. I picked this song for its hushed vibe—appropriate for a library—but also its strong undertones of mysticism and wonder. What better feeling when seeking out a new book?
Chapter 20.
Derek & the Dominos - “Bell Bottom Blues”
This isn’t Gally’s proudest moment, but in her defense, she doesn’t yet understand what it’ll take—from either of them—for her and Alix to be together.
Chapter 21.
Skipinnish - “The Island”
Gally does what she does best.
Chapter 22.
Martin Newell - “Goodbye Dreaming Fields”
This song has obvious resonance with the chapter’s downer ending, but I’ve always felt there’s something hopeful about it, too, as though the fields have to burn to make room for whatever comes next.
Chapter 23.
The Left Banke - “Walk Away Renee”
One of the great “you’re not leaving me, I’m leaving you” songs of all time. The lyrics are so full of denial, and I love how it cushions the heartbreak with lush strings and harmonies.
Chapter 24.
Runrig - “Pride of the Summer”
Ah, it’s good to be young and daring!
Chapter 25.
Hedwig and the Angry Inch - “Midnight Radio”
You have your choice of two great versions: the original film soundtrack sung by John Cameron Mitchell, or the Broadway revival recording by Neil Patrick Harris.
Chapter 26.
David Bowie - “As the World Falls Down”
This was always the best song from Labyrinth. The lyrics are a masterpiece of subtlety—on the surface Jareth is seducing Sarah, but he’s also tipping his hand about his abusive nature. For our purposes, though, it’s a simple heartbreaker: “Makes no sense at all…”
Chapter 27.
Rainbow - “Street of Dreams”
Everyone is allowed one self-indulgent moment walking the city streets, yearning for what might have been.
Chapter 28.
Go West - “The King of Wishful Thinking”
It’s one thing to pretend you’re not in pain, and it’s another thing to know you’re pretending and fake it till you make it anyway. Own it!
Chapter 29.
Alice Cooper - “House of Fire”
Tosspig and Nose Cabbage's theme song, as they build their marriage on a solid foundation.
Chapter 30.
Game Theory - “Regenisraen”
This lovely song has such an odd title, I always thought it belonged in a fantasy novel.
Chapter 31.
Guided By Voices - “Teenage FBI”
Balancing out Tails’s journey is another song about acting foolish around the object of your infatuation—but this time with a little more self-awareness and a far more triumphant tone.
