The songs on my running playlist are selected more for the lyrics than the tempo. I like upbeat music, but 30K of oomcha oomha oomcha oomcha would make me lose. my. mind. Luckily (or not), I’m completely amusical and so the tempo doesn’t really mess with my running rhythm. I can (and do) run to any kind of music. I prefer running songs that are at least a wee bit energetic, don’t misunderstand, but I also like a song with a message. I need to run to songs that speak to me. Motivate me. Build my confidence. Stroke my ego.
Since I started listening to music on the run I’ve discovered that I become terribly impressed with myself during long runs (maybe it happens on short runs too, but I only listen to music on long runs). I hypothesize that there is a strong correlation between my glucose levels and my self satisfaction – the more glucose depleted I become the more amazing I think I am. For some people this happens when they drink. I think I may have uncovered the secret of the mythical “runner’s high” – it has nothing to do with endorphins, rather it is a state of euphoric delusion brought on by a brain bonking from lack of glycogen.
In my own deluded state I believe the people on my iPod are singing not directly to me, but about me. The Police are right, every little thing I do is magic. My face is a map of the world, is a map of the world. Ain’t nothin’ gonna break my stride, nobody gonna slow me down. My hips don’t lie. I’ve got to have faith faith faith. Here I go again on my own, going down the only road I’ve ever known. I’m simply the best – better than all the rest. You get the point. It’s all about me me me.
Title Reference: Carly Simon – You’re So Vain. From the album No Secrets. 1972.
