Massive Attack’s 100th Window came out in early 2003 when I was writing The Persistence of Memories, and the track “What Your Soul Sings” was the standout track for me; it was the first time I’d heard Sinéad O’Connor’s voice in some time, even though she’d been dropping albums here and there.
The message of the song — listen to and trust your inner self, it knows what it needs and wants — resonated deeply for me, and it became one of the most important central themes of not just TPoM but the entire trilogy. It’s what keeps Denni from faltering and doubting herself. It’s what keeps Caren moving even when she feels lost. It’s what keeps Poe focused on what he truly believes in. Every character learns that their true anchor, what keeps them from spiraling into chaos and doubt, is the calm soul within.
Even today I keep it as a sort of personal mantra, one I occasionally need to remind myself of: follow what makes your soul sing.
Thank you for the music and the vision, Sinéad.
Don’t be afraid
Open your mouth to say
Say what your soul sings to you
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