31 Most Popular Songs About Books & Reading of All Time

Literature and music have long been intertwined, with many artists turning to books for inspiration when crafting their songs. Whether it’s the sweeping drama of a Shakespearean tragedy or the introspective journey of a modern-day novel, songs about books offer a unique way of connecting two powerful art forms.

From rock anthems to folk ballads, these songs not only honor the stories they reference but also breathe new life into literary themes, making them more accessible to a broader audience.

In this article, we explore some of the most memorable songs inspired by books, highlighting how literature continues to shape and influence the world of music.

31 Most Famous Songs About Books & Libraries You Must Know (Kids Playlist)

These songs draw inspiration from books, literature, and stories, often weaving literary references and themes into their lyrics.

Here’s a list of 33 songs about books, storytelling, and literature:

#1 “Wuthering Heights” by Kate Bush

Kate Bush’s “Wuthering Heights” is a hauntingly beautiful song inspired by Emily Brontë’s classic novel of the same name. Released in 1978, the song is sung from the perspective of Catherine Earnshaw, one of the novel’s main characters. With its ethereal vocals and dramatic instrumentation, Bush captures the intense emotions of the doomed love affair between Catherine and Heathcliff. The lyrics, “Heathcliff, it’s me, Cathy, I’ve come home,” echo the ghostly nature of Catherine’s spirit, which haunts Heathcliff after her death. Bush’s portrayal of Catherine’s longing and regret brings the gothic romance of Brontë’s novel to life in a uniquely poetic way.

The song remains an iconic piece of art that perfectly mirrors the dark, passionate themes of the original novel, making it a literary masterpiece in its own right.

#2 “1984” by David Bowie

David Bowie’s “1984” is a dystopian anthem inspired by George Orwell’s famous novel 1984. Released in 1974, the song reflects the oppressive atmosphere of Orwell’s totalitarian world, where freedom is suppressed, and Big Brother watches everyone. Bowie’s funky, futuristic sound contrasts with the grim subject matter, creating a sense of tension that mirrors the novel’s portrayal of a society under constant surveillance. Lyrics like “They’ll split your pretty cranium, and fill it full of air” convey the fear and manipulation present in the world of 1984, where individuality is crushed.

Bowie’s interpretation of Orwell’s classic combines literary depth with his signature glam-rock flair, offering a chilling yet captivating musical reflection on one of literature’s most enduring dystopias.

#3 “Paperback Writer” by The Beatles

The Beatles’ “Paperback Writer” is a playful yet insightful look into the life of an aspiring novelist. Released in 1966, the song features a catchy, upbeat melody, with lyrics that tell the story of someone desperate to break into the publishing world. The narrator, who dreams of becoming a successful paperback writer, describes his latest work, asking for it to be published despite its flaws. The line “It’s a thousand pages, give or take a few, I’ll be writing more in a week or two” humorously portrays the ambition and challenges faced by struggling writers.

The song’s lighthearted take on the publishing industry adds a relatable touch to the journey of authorship, making it an enduring favorite among both music and book lovers.

#4 “Don’t Stand So Close to Me” by The Police

“Don’t Stand So Close to Me” by The Police draws on the tension between a young student and an older teacher, with a clear nod to Vladimir Nabokov’s controversial novel Lolita. Released in 1980, the song’s lyrics hint at a forbidden attraction, with lines like “Just like the old man in that book by Nabokov” directly referencing the troubling relationship in Lolita. The Police’s reggae-influenced beat and Sting’s emotive vocals create an atmosphere of unease, reflecting the inappropriate dynamics explored in the song.

By blending literary reference with a modern narrative, “Don’t Stand So Close to Me” highlights the ethical dilemmas and uncomfortable realities of power imbalances in relationships, echoing Nabokov’s unsettling themes.

#5 “Book of Love” by The Monotones

The Monotones’ “Book of Love” is a fun, doo-wop classic that whimsically compares romantic relationships to a guidebook. Released in 1958, the song’s playful lyrics ask the question, “Who wrote the book of love?” as it explores the timeless nature of love and the rules that seem to govern it. With its catchy chorus and upbeat rhythm, the song has a lighthearted charm, portraying love as something that might be found in a book full of secrets and advice. The Monotones’ harmonious vocals and simple yet memorable melodies add to the song’s enduring appeal.

“Book of Love” taps into the universal curiosity about love’s mysteries, making it a sweet and enduring ode to matters of the heart.

#6 “I Write Sins Not Tragedies” by Panic! At The Disco

Panic! At The Disco’s “I Write Sins Not Tragedies” is a theatrical song about scandal, deception, and melodrama, with a literary flair in its title and storytelling. Released in 2005, the song follows the chaotic unraveling of a wedding as the groom overhears gossip about his bride’s infidelity. The sharp, witty lyrics and baroque-pop style create a narrative filled with tension and scandal, much like the plot of a dramatic novel. The title itself hints at the idea of writing one’s own story, with a preference for sin-filled drama over classical tragedy.

With its clever wordplay and storytelling, “I Write Sins Not Tragedies” stands as a modern take on literary themes of betrayal, secrets, and the complexity of relationships.

#7 “Between the Bars” by Elliott Smith

“Between the Bars” by Elliott Smith is a hauntingly beautiful song that delves into themes of addiction, self-destruction, and isolation, akin to the despair often found in modern literature. Released in 1997, the song features Smith’s signature soft vocals and melancholic guitar, with lyrics that explore the internal struggles of the narrator. The title suggests the confines of addiction or emotional entrapment, while the lyrics, “Drink up, baby, stay up all night,” reflect the narrator’s desire to escape reality through substance use.

Smith’s poetic lyricism creates a deeply introspective song, offering a glimpse into the darker side of human experience, much like a tragic novel where the protagonist is trapped in their own self-destructive patterns.

#8 “Tom Sawyer” by Rush

Rush’s “Tom Sawyer” is a tribute to the rebellious spirit of Mark Twain’s famous literary character, Tom Sawyer. Released in 1981, the song captures the essence of a modern-day Tom, someone who refuses to conform and marches to the beat of their own drum. With lyrics like “No, his mind is not for rent, to any god or government,” the song paints a picture of a free-thinking individual who values independence and personal freedom. The song’s complex, progressive rock structure mirrors the multifaceted nature of Tom’s character, a boy who’s both adventurous and introspective.

Rush’s portrayal of Tom Sawyer as a symbol of nonconformity and self-reliance speaks to the timelessness of Twain’s creation, making it a powerful musical homage to one of literature’s most beloved characters.

#9 “Romeo and Juliet” by Dire Straits

Dire Straits’ “Romeo and Juliet” is a romantic rock ballad inspired by Shakespeare’s famous tragedy. Released in 1980, the song reimagines the classic love story in a modern context, where the star-crossed lovers face the same challenges of heartbreak and miscommunication. The lyrics, “Juliet, when we made love, you used to cry,” convey the emotional intensity of their relationship, while also reflecting on the inevitable distance that grows between them. Mark Knopfler’s soft, melodic guitar playing enhances the song’s melancholic atmosphere, making it a poignant reflection on love lost.

“Romeo and Juliet” beautifully captures the timeless nature of Shakespeare’s themes, showing how the struggles of love and fate remain relevant in any era.

#10 “Cathy’s Song” by Simon & Garfunkel

Simon & Garfunkel’s “Cathy’s Song” is a tender ballad that references the English classic Wuthering Heights and draws inspiration from themes of love and longing. Released in 1965, the song is a heartfelt ode to a distant lover, with Paul Simon’s delicate fingerpicking and soft vocals conveying a sense of deep yearning. The lyrics, “I sit by my window and watch the rain,” evoke the melancholy atmosphere of isolation, much like the windswept moors of Wuthering Heights, where characters yearn for lost love.

The gentle melody and introspective lyrics make “Cathy’s Song” a quiet reflection on the pain of separation, echoing the emotional depth found in Brontë’s gothic tale.

#11 “White Rabbit” by Jefferson Airplane

Jefferson Airplane’s “White Rabbit” is a psychedelic anthem that draws directly from Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Released in 1967, the song uses the surreal, dreamlike imagery of Alice’s journey down the rabbit hole as a metaphor for mind-altering experiences. The lyrics, “Go ask Alice when she’s ten feet tall,” reference the disorienting changes in size that Alice experiences, creating a vivid parallel to the song’s exploration of altered consciousness. Grace Slick’s haunting vocals, combined with the song’s hypnotic rhythm, mirror the sense of wonder and confusion that permeates Carroll’s fantastical world.

“White Rabbit” captures the spirit of the 1960s counterculture movement, using Alice in Wonderland as a lens to explore the boundaries of reality and perception.

#12 “The Ghost of Tom Joad” by Bruce Springsteen

Bruce Springsteen’s “The Ghost of Tom Joad” is a haunting reflection on social justice, inspired by John Steinbeck’s The Grapes of Wrath. Released in 1995, the song portrays the struggles of the working class, drawing parallels between the hardships faced during the Great Depression and those experienced in modern times. The lyrics, “The highway is alive tonight, but nobody’s kiddin’ nobody about where it goes,” convey the sense of hopelessness and perseverance that define Tom Joad’s journey. The song’s stark, acoustic arrangement mirrors the bleakness of the novel, evoking the same empathy for the downtrodden.

Springsteen’s modern retelling of Tom Joad’s fight for justice highlights the timeless relevance of Steinbeck’s themes, making it a powerful anthem for the underprivileged.

#13 “The NeverEnding Story” by Limahl

Limahl’s “The NeverEnding Story” is a fantastical, synth-driven track that serves as the theme song for the 1984 film adaptation of Michael Ende’s novel The NeverEnding Story. The song captures the sense of wonder and adventure that defines both the book and the movie, with its lyrics inviting listeners to “turn around, look at what you see” and enter a world of limitless imagination. The upbeat tempo and whimsical sound reflect the magical journey of the protagonist, Bastian, as he embarks on a quest that blurs the line between fiction and reality.

“The NeverEnding Story” is a celebration of the power of storytelling, reminding us that the worlds created by books can live on in our imaginations forever.

#14 “Banana Co.” by Radiohead

Radiohead’s “Banana Co.” offers a political commentary that draws on the themes of exploitation and corruption often found in literary works like Gabriel García Márquez’s One Hundred Years of Solitude. Released in 1993, the song critiques multinational corporations and their harmful influence on developing countries, using the fictional “Banana Co.” as a symbol of imperialism and greed. The lyrics, “Oh, Banana Co., we really love you and we need you,” deliver a sarcastic critique of how these companies manipulate both resources and people.

The song’s melancholic tone and eerie, atmospheric soundscape reflect the dark realities of exploitation and power, echoing the themes explored in García Márquez’s magical realism.

#15 “Tales of Brave Ulysses” by Cream

Cream’s “Tales of Brave Ulysses” is a psychedelic rock song inspired by Homer’s The Odyssey, recounting the adventures of the legendary Greek hero, Ulysses (Odysseus). Released in 1967, the song’s lyrics describe the mythological journey through vivid, colorful imagery, with lines like “Tiny purple fishes run laughing through your fingers” reflecting the surreal nature of Ulysses’ epic voyage. The song’s wah-wah guitar effects and trippy soundscape create a dreamlike atmosphere, transporting listeners to the fantastical world of ancient myths and legends.

“Tales of Brave Ulysses” merges classic literature with the psychedelic sounds of the 60s, offering a modern musical interpretation of one of history’s most enduring tales of adventure.

#16 “The River” by Bruce Springsteen

Bruce Springsteen’s “The River” draws on the storytelling tradition found in American literature, using the metaphor of a river to reflect on life’s hardships and the loss of youthful dreams. Released in 1980, the song tells the story of a young couple whose lives are shaped by economic struggles, much like the characters in John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men. The lyrics, “Is a dream a lie if it don’t come true, or is it something worse?” highlight the emotional weight of unfulfilled aspirations and the harsh realities of adulthood.

“The River” is a poignant exploration of working-class life, with its narrative depth and stark realism placing it alongside the great American literary works that explore similar themes.

#17 “Killing an Arab” by The Cure

The Cure’s “Killing an Arab” is a controversial and thought-provoking song based on Albert Camus’ existential novel The Stranger. Released in 1978, the song describes the pivotal moment when the novel’s protagonist, Meursault, shoots a man on a beach, seemingly without reason or emotion. The lyrics, “Standing on the beach, with a gun in my hand,” directly reference this scene, highlighting the novel’s themes of absurdity and detachment from conventional morality. Robert Smith’s minimalist lyrics and the song’s repetitive, eerie melody mirror the cold, detached tone of Camus’ writing.

While often misunderstood, the song is not an incitement to violence but a commentary on existentialism, drawing from one of the most iconic works in 20th-century literature.

#18 “The End” by The Doors

“The End” by The Doors is a sprawling, psychedelic track that weaves together references to mythology and classic literature, with a particular nod to Oedipus Rex by Sophocles. Released in 1967, the song’s dark, surreal lyrics take listeners on a journey through the subconscious, exploring themes of death, rebirth, and fate. Jim Morrison’s haunting vocals and the song’s hypnotic instrumentation create a sense of impending doom, as he famously sings, “Father, I want to kill you. Mother, I want to…” invoking the tragic Oedipal tale of patricide and incest.

“The End” uses literary allusion to explore the darker aspects of human nature, making it one of The Doors’ most enigmatic and powerful pieces.

#19 “For Whom the Bell Tolls” by Metallica

Metallica’s “For Whom the Bell Tolls” is a heavy metal anthem inspired by Ernest Hemingway’s novel of the same name. Released in 1984, the song reflects on the futility and tragedy of war, much like Hemingway’s story set during the Spanish Civil War. The lyrics, “Take a look to the sky just before you die, it’s the last time you will,” capture the sense of inevitability and sacrifice that permeates both the novel and the song. Metallica’s aggressive, thunderous sound serves as a fitting backdrop to the song’s themes of death and loss.

The song is a powerful homage to Hemingway’s work, using metal music to convey the emotional intensity of war and human conflict.

#20 “The Battle of Evermore” by Led Zeppelin

Led Zeppelin’s “The Battle of Evermore” is a mystical, folk-inspired track that draws heavily on J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. Released in 1971, the song paints a vivid picture of an epic battle between good and evil, with lyrics like “The queen of light took her bow, and then she turned to go,” evoking the imagery of Tolkien’s fantasy world. The mandolin-driven melody and ethereal harmonies create a haunting, otherworldly atmosphere that mirrors the tension and drama found in Middle-earth.

Led Zeppelin’s love of mythology and fantasy shines through in this track, making it a perfect musical interpretation of the epic themes and characters found in Tolkien’s novels.

#21 “Alone Again (Naturally)” by Gilbert O’Sullivan

Gilbert O’Sullivan’s “Alone Again (Naturally)” is a melancholy ballad that echoes the themes of isolation and existential crisis found in many literary works, particularly those influenced by existentialist writers like Camus or Sartre. Released in 1972, the song follows a man who contemplates his loneliness and sorrow after being abandoned at the altar, asking profound questions about the meaning of life and suffering. The lyrics, “In my hour of need, I truly am indeed alone again, naturally,” convey a deep sense of abandonment and hopelessness.

The song’s reflective tone and introspective lyrics make it resonate with those familiar with literature that explores themes of isolation, despair, and the human condition.

#22 “Sympathy for the Devil” by The Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones’ “Sympathy for the Devil” is a provocative song that draws on literary influences, including The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov and Paradise Lost by John Milton. Released in 1968, the song is narrated from the perspective of the Devil, who recounts his role in various historical atrocities. The lyrics, “Pleased to meet you, hope you guess my name,” reflect the charm and cunning of Satan, much like the devilish characters in both Bulgakov’s and Milton’s works. The song’s upbeat, samba-inspired rhythm contrasts with its dark themes, making the devil’s tale both alluring and unsettling.

“Sympathy for the Devil” challenges listeners to consider the complexities of good and evil, much like the literary works that inspired it.

#23 “Animal Farm” by The Kinks

The Kinks’ “Animal Farm” takes inspiration from George Orwell’s allegorical novella of the same name. Released in 1968, the song offers a more whimsical take on the idea of escaping from society’s pressures, focusing on the longing for simplicity rather than political revolution. The lyrics, “This world is big and wild and half insane,” reflect the narrator’s desire to retreat to a pastoral, idealized life away from the chaos of the world. While Orwell’s book is a satirical critique of totalitarianism, The Kinks’ version uses the farm as a metaphor for personal freedom and tranquility.

The song’s upbeat, carefree melody contrasts with its literary roots, creating a nostalgic yearning for an idealized world far from the complexities of modern life.

#24 “Lord of the Flies” by Iron Maiden

Iron Maiden’s “Lord of the Flies” is a heavy metal track directly inspired by William Golding’s novel Lord of the Flies, which explores the breakdown of civilization and the darker sides of human nature. Released in 1995, the song captures the chaos and violence that ensues when a group of boys stranded on an island descend into savagery. The lyrics, “I don’t care for this world anymore, I just want to live my own fantasy,” reflect the anarchy and rejection of societal rules that permeate Golding’s novel.

Iron Maiden’s aggressive sound and intense lyrics mirror the brutality of the story, making it a powerful musical interpretation of Golding’s themes of survival, power, and moral decay.

#25 “A Song of Ice and Fire” by Blind Guardian

Blind Guardian’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” is a fantasy-inspired track that draws from George R.R. Martin’s epic A Song of Ice and Fire series. Released in 2010, the song captures the sweeping scale and political intrigue of the novels, filled with power struggles, betrayal, and shifting allegiances. With lyrics like “Winter’s wrath in icy chains, freedom lost and hope in vain,” the band taps into the sense of looming dread that defines the world of Westeros. The powerful guitar riffs and epic vocals mirror the intensity and grandiosity of Martin’s narrative, evoking the brutal battles and complex characters within the series.

The song serves as a tribute to the richly detailed world of Game of Thrones, channeling the dark and intricate themes that define Martin’s storytelling.

#26 “These Things Take Time” by The Smiths

The Smiths’ “These Things Take Time” is a reflection on personal growth and transformation, drawing from themes of self-discovery that are often explored in literature. Released in 1984, the song’s jangly guitars and Morrissey’s iconic vocals tell the story of someone grappling with identity and the passage of time. The lyrics “You said I was ill, and you were not wrong, but I can’t believe you’d ever care” showcase the vulnerability of the narrator, evoking the emotional complexities found in coming-of-age novels.

The song’s introspective nature, paired with its literary allusions to change and self-awareness, makes it a quintessential reflection on the challenges of growth and understanding.

#27 “The Divine Comedy” by Milla Jovovich

Milla Jovovich’s “The Divine Comedy” is a hauntingly ethereal song that pays homage to Dante Alighieri’s masterpiece, The Divine Comedy. Released in 1994, the song captures the dreamlike and otherworldly journey of Dante through Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise. Jovovich’s atmospheric sound and hypnotic vocals mirror the surreal and spiritual nature of the poem, with lyrics that evoke images of transcendence and divine encounters. The song’s intricate melodies and poetic lyrics create a mystical ambiance that mirrors the profound spiritual and existential themes found in Dante’s work.

“The Divine Comedy” is a meditative musical interpretation of one of literature’s most revered epic poems, offering a modern reflection on its timeless themes.

#28 “The Tain” by The Decemberists

The Decemberists’ “The Tain” is an ambitious, multi-part song inspired by the ancient Irish epic Táin Bó Cúailnge (The Cattle Raid of Cooley). Released in 2004, this 18-minute track blends folk, rock, and progressive influences to recount the mythic story of warriors, cattle raids, and the heroic deeds of the legendary figure Cú Chulainn. The song’s shifting dynamics and complex structure reflect the epic scale of the source material, with lyrics that explore themes of bravery, war, and fate. The Decemberists’ storytelling prowess is on full display, capturing the spirit of the ancient legend while infusing it with modern musical sensibilities.

“The Tain” is a masterful adaptation of Irish mythology, transforming one of Ireland’s most famous literary epics into an evocative musical journey.

#29 “Bookends” by Simon & Garfunkel

Simon & Garfunkel’s “Bookends” is a tender and reflective song about the passage of time and the fading memories of youth, much like the bittersweet themes found in classic literature. Released in 1968, the song’s gentle acoustic guitar and harmonized vocals evoke a sense of nostalgia and melancholy. The lyrics, “Time it was, and what a time it was, it was a time of innocence,” beautifully capture the fleeting nature of childhood and the inevitable changes that come with growing older. The song serves as a meditation on life’s cyclical nature, much like how books begin and end, with only memories remaining in between.

“Bookends” is a lyrical and poignant reflection on the passage of time, offering a quiet, introspective homage to the narratives we create as we live and age.

#30 “Literary Mind” by Silversun Pickups

Silversun Pickups’ “Literary Mind” is an introspective song that explores the mental landscapes inspired by books and literature. Released in 2015, the song’s ethereal melodies and dreamy atmosphere reflect the way stories can shape our thoughts and perspectives. The lyrics, “In your head, in your mind, it’s just a moment we’ll leave behind,” speak to the ephemeral nature of ideas and narratives, much like the fleeting emotions and images we encounter when immersed in a novel. The band’s shoegaze-influenced sound adds to the song’s reflective tone, creating a feeling of being lost in the pages of a book.

“Literary Mind” celebrates the transformative power of reading, capturing the sense of wonder and introspection that comes from living through the written word.

#31 “Exit Music (For a Film)” by Radiohead

Radiohead’s “Exit Music (For a Film)” was written for the 1996 film adaptation of Romeo + Juliet, drawing from the tragic themes of Shakespeare’s iconic play. The song, released in 1997, evokes the doomed love of Romeo and Juliet with its slow, haunting buildup and Thom Yorke’s plaintive vocals. The lyrics, “We hope that you choke, that you choke,” capture the bitterness and helplessness felt in the face of inevitable tragedy. The minimalist instrumentation gradually swells into a powerful crescendo, mirroring the emotional intensity of the lovers’ fate.

The song is both a homage to Shakespeare’s work and a modern, chilling interpretation of the timeless themes of love, loss, and destiny.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do musicians write songs inspired by books?

Musicians often draw inspiration from books because literature provides rich narratives and deep emotional themes that resonate with listeners. By incorporating literary references, artists can explore complex ideas and connect their music to timeless stories.

What genres commonly feature songs about books?

Songs about books can be found across many genres, including rock, folk, pop, metal, and alternative. These genres allow for a range of storytelling, from the epic scale of myths to introspective reflections on classic literature.

How do songs about books enhance the experience of both music and literature?

Songs inspired by books offer listeners a new perspective on well-known literary themes, blending music and storytelling to create a deeper emotional experience. They can bring books to life through melody and lyrics, often offering fresh interpretations of familiar stories.

What are some famous songs directly influenced by classic novels?

Famous songs like Kate Bush’s “Wuthering Heights,” Metallica’s “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” and The Cure’s “Killing an Arab” are directly influenced by classic novels. These tracks use literary references to explore themes such as love, war, and existentialism.