The techniques used in moviemaking can also help you write a better song. Notice how a movie scene will often begin with a general setting to put the story in context? A town square, a breakfast table, a busy street, the middle of a battle, or a table for two are all places that stir up subconscious impressions and help people tune in to a story. Once you've established the scene, you can zoom in on the details and take the listener with you.

Alternately, scenes may start with an extreme close up of something — a wine glass, a ring, a phone, or someone's eyes. This technique provides a clue that action is about to occur; the glass will be picked up, the ring will be taken off, the phone will ring, the voice behind the eyes will speak.