The Writing Is On The Wall

By Keith Bradford

The old saying, "The writing is on the wall," of course does not refer to words written on a wall.  "The writing on the wall" (or "the handwriting on the wall" or "the writing's on the wall"), an idiom, is a portent of doom or misfortune. It originates in the Biblical book of Daniel—where supernatural writing foretells the demise of the Babylonian Empire. The phrase is widely used in language and literature.

Basically any gesture spoken or otherwise can be intended as a wake up call.  For example if your boss comes up to you this year and asks if you would like to play Santa Claus at the annual company Christmas party, then you might want to consider losing some weight.  In the music business if your band leader suggests lowering the key on certain songs in your repertoire, it is a pretty good indication that you are no longer hitting the high notes. Many times the recipient does not see these things as the writing on the wall but rather a slam or put down. 

If the engineer tells you at a recording session, "You might want to check your tuning," more often than not the musician will say I just checked it with  the tuner and it's fine.  You can't look up on the wall and see a bunch of writing giving you a blueprint for life but you can watch and listen for tell tale signs. 

The Music Business, YA GOTTA LUV IT.