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Pictured is one of the most popular bands of all time, The Beatles. Ratliff used The Beatles' song "When I Get Home" in his chapter discussing closeness.
(credit: https://www.amazon.com/Let-Be-Beatles/dp/B0041KVZ1S)

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This picture is a typical representation of closeness. Not only can musicians themselves create closeness within their band or within the elements they incorporate into their songs, but they can also create closeness between their listeners.
(credit: https://www.healthline.com/health/intimacy-is-more-than-sex)

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This song that I have chosen to exemplify closeness is Sufjan Steven's "Mystery of Love." I think this song best shows closeness within the lyrics, because the first line says "Oh, to see without my eyes." In my opinion, this lyric means that two lovers could share the same sight, or that one person could be blinded and put their full trust into their lover to guide them the right way. Another way this song shows closeness is through the intricate and dreamy guitar in the background. The same rhythm is played throughout, so it brings a sense of security to the song.

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The song I chose to analyze from Ratliff's chapter was Jimmy Reed's "Where Can You Be." I think that this song represents closeness because the rhythm of the guitar and the snare drums are relatively similar and therefore sync together. This, in my opinion, creates closeness because it is part of the song to hold on to throughout. The simplicity of the rhythm brings a certain beauty to the song.

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"Closeness is developed over time, and its value to the ear is absolute." (p. 161)

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"Sometimes the closeness of two musicians within a band is what makes the band capable of moving beyond normal limits."(p.165)

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According to Ratliff's chapter and my own interpretation, closeness is similarity. It is when two elements, two musicians, or two instruments are in sync with each other and have developed a close bond. I definitely agree with Ratliff whenever he discusses the fact that closeness is much harder and more "exhausting" to listen to than contrast. To many people, closeness can feel confining and restrictive, but to others, it is a secure feeling. Songs that exercise this element can help us feel like we are not alone. Ratliff also says an interesting statement, that the synchrony of two musicians can bring power and strength to a song, which resonates with me, because togetherness is a hard element to achieve, specifically when it comes to matching pitch.