10 Amazing Songs Inspired by Books You Need to Hear

It’s widely known that many famous songs draw inspiration from books. Storytelling, whether in written or musical form, is a timeless art. Discovering the literary roots of certain songs offers insight into the creative process. Whether you know the songs and books or not, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s dive in!

Paranoid Android – Radiohead (1997)

Radiohead’s Ok Computer is a standout album of the ’90s, winning a Grammy. “Paranoid Android” is a highlight, inspired by Douglas Adams’s A Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. The song is from the view of Marvin, a depressed robot whose intelligence is wasted on mundane tasks.

The six-and-a-half-minute track features chord progressions, transitions, and Thom Yorke’s vocals, telling a relatable story of unrealized potential. The album’s title comes from a line in Adams’s story, showing the band’s appreciation for Adams’s creative genius.

Pet Sematary – The Ramones (1989)

The Ramones, punk rock pioneers, gained fame with “Pet Sematary,” written for the movie based on Stephen King’s novel. Opinions vary, but the song’s catchy tune captures the story’s essence.

King, a Ramones fan, mentions them in the book. Dee Dee Ramone reportedly wrote the song in King’s basement after reading an early draft. The movie was remade, but the song wasn’t in the 2019 release.

Scentless Apprentice – Nirvana (1993)

Kurt Cobain’s genius is undeniable. “Scentless Apprentice” is based on Patrick Suskind’s novel Perfume, about a man with an incredible sense of smell but no scent of his own, who murders young women for their scent.

The track features raw emotion, a heavy drumbeat, and an edgy guitar riff by Dave Grohl. Cobain’s vocals elevate the song, making it a fan favorite in live performances.

A Farewell to Arms – Machinehead (2007)

Machinehead’s The Blackening is a top heavy metal compilation. “A Farewell to Arms” is a standout track. The 10-minute song evolves from a melodic beginning to power chords, showcasing Machinehead’s style.

The title comes from Ernest Hemingway’s WWI novel. While the song discusses war in general and omits references to love, the common theme links it to the novel.

Sympathy for the Devil – The Rolling Stones (1968)

This iconic rock song, credited to Mick Jagger, enhanced the band’s occult reputation. However, the song is based on Mikhail Bulgakov’s novel, The Master and Margarita.

Bulgakov’s story humorously imagines the devil visiting the USSR during Stalin’s reign. The song shows the devil visiting defining moments in history. Musical elements, including the drumbeat, pre-verse, guitar solo, and Jagger’s vocals, make this song recognizable.

One – Metallica (1988)

Metallica frequently draws from literature. “One,” from 1988, portrays the ravages of war, inspired by Donald Trumbo’s anti-war novel, Johnny Got His Gun.

The story is about a WWI soldier who loses his limbs and senses. The song presents this perspective with chilling verses and the chorus line, ‘Hold my breath as I wish for death/Oh please god wake me.’ The listener immerses in the soldier’s anguish, making it a staple of Metallica’s live sets.

Resistance – Muse (2009)

George Orwell’s 1984 is a widely read dystopian novel. Muse’s song, “Resistance,” portrays the novel’s theme of love. The song captures the love affair between Winston Smith and Julia, asking if love is the greatest resistance in a totalitarian society.

Bellamy’s vocals and lyrics create a powerful song that complements Orwell’s novel.

Rocket Man – Elton John (1972)

“Rocket Man” inspired Elton John’s biographical film’s title. Bernie Taupin got the song’s inspiration from Ray Bradbury’s short story of the same name.

The story is told from a child’s perspective about his astronaut father’s conflict. The song is a metaphor for fame, from drug use to isolation and family challenges, mirroring both Bradbury’s story and John’s musical journey.

The Rime of the Ancient Mariner – Iron Maiden (1984)

Iron Maiden retells Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s 1779 poem in their song, “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner.” The band recreates the tale with the poet’s original lines in their metal style.

Both poem and song tell of a naval captain’s experience at sea, with the moral being to love all creatures. The song involves Death, animated corpses, and an albatross. It remains a standout offering for fans of metal and poetry.

The Alchemist – Blue Oyster Cult (2020)

Blue Oyster Cult has released a recent album, The Symbol Remains. The Alchemist is based on H.P Lovecraft’s short story, retelling a tale of betrayal and revenge. The song captures the dark malevolence Lovecraft depicted.

From the keyboard intro to the power chords and Buck Dharma’s solo, the song radiates evil. Eric Bloom’s vocals enhance the song, making it a great combination of BOC and Lovecraft.

These songs show the connection between literature and music, offering new perspectives on both. Exploring the stories behind the songs enhances their impact, providing deeper artistic appreciation.

What are your favorite songs inspired by books? Leave your comment below!