"Je n'ai jamais eu l'intention que mes paroles soient un modèle de mode de vie."

When an artist says they didn't mean for their lyrics to be a guide for living, they're basically saying their words are more about expressing themselves than telling you how to live. Think about it—lyrics often reflect personal experiences, emotions, or storytelling. They’re not necessarily instructions or rules.

Take Bob Dylan, for example. Back in the '60s, his songs became anthems for a generation. Many people saw his lyrics as deeply meaningful and even revolutionary. But Dylan himself always insisted he was just writing songs, not trying to lead a movement. He was painting pictures with his words, not drafting a manifesto.

Imagine this—you’re at a concert. The music is pounding, the crowd is buzzing, and the artist on stage is belting out lyrics that resonate with something deep inside you. In that moment, it feels like they're speaking directly to you, giving you a sense of clarity or even direction. But the next day, you realize that what you took from those words is uniquely yours. The artist wasn’t telling you how to live; you were finding your own meaning.

Here’s a real-life example for you. Let’s say you’re listening to the song "Fight Song" by Rachel Platten. For many, this song is about overcoming adversity and finding inner strength. Picture someone going through a tough time—maybe they've lost a job or ended a relationship. They hear this song and feel a surge of hope and determination. It's like a lifeline, giving them the push they need to keep going. Rachel Platten didn’t write those lyrics specifically for that person’s situation, but the song still provided comfort and motivation.

So, how can you use this wisdom in your own life? Next time you hear a song, read a poem, or even get advice from someone, remember that it’s coming from their perspective. Take what resonates with you, but don’t feel like you have to follow it to the letter. Use it as inspiration, not a strict guide. Your life is your own, and you’re the one writing your story.

Imagine you’re chatting with a friend over coffee. They’re feeling lost and looking for direction. They mention how they’ve been listening to a lot of music, trying to find answers in the lyrics. You could share this concept with them—let them know it’s okay to find inspiration in those words, but they shouldn't feel pressured to live exactly by them. Encourage your friend to take what fits and leave the rest. Remind them that their journey is unique, and they’re the best author of their own blueprint.

This kind of wisdom isn’t just about lyrics or music. It applies to a lot of what we encounter in life—books, movies, advice from others. They can all offer valuable insights, but at the end of the day, it’s up to us to decide what to take to heart and what to let go. So next time you find yourself moved by someone’s words, remember: they’re a piece of inspiration, not a set of instructions.