Working on a Song

The Lyrics of HADESTOWN

By: Anaïs Mitchell

Narrated by: Anaïs Mitchell, Steve Earle

"Working On A Song is one of the best books about lyric writing for the theater I've read."—Lin-Manuel Miranda

Anaïs Mitchell named to TIME's List of the 100 Most Influential People in the World of 2020

An illuminating book of lyrics and stories from Hadestown—the winner of eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical—from its author, songwriter Anaïs Mitchell with a foreword by Steve Earle

On Broadway, this fresh take on the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice has become a modern classic. Heralded as “The best new musical of the season,” by The Wall Street Journal, and “Sumptuous. Gorgeous. As good as it gets,” by The New York Times, the show was a breakout hit, with its poignant social commentary, and spellbinding music and lyrics.

In this book, Anaïs Mitchell takes readers inside her more than decade’s-long process of building the musical from the ground up—detailing her inspiration, breaking down the lyrics, and opening up the process of creation that gave birth to Hadestown. Fans and newcomers alike will love this deeply thoughtful, revealing look at how the songs from “the underground” evolved, and became the songs we sing again and again.

Critic reviews

Praise for Working on a Song:
"Working On A Song is one of the best books about lyric writing for the theater I've read. Up there w the Sondheim Tomes and Ira Gershwin's book. Specifically, re-writing, and revising, and holding on to your voice while telling your story."—Lin-Manuel Miranda

It's like she's there chatting with you

It's like she's there chatting with you about your favorite musical. My favorite parts are when she goes through the evolution of the lyrics over time. It's absolutely fascinating to watch the musical grow and transform before your eyes.

Enriching if you are a composer

I love hadestown, it might be one of my favorite musicals of all time. Hearing Anaïs Mitchell talking about the evolution of her lyrics it’s truly helpful of you are an artist.

wonderful!

Great stories behind the words and it was wonderful to hear early drafts and alt versions of the songs!

Lovely addition to this story

I thoroughly enjoyed the original cast soundtrack which made me go see the show which in turn had me listen to this book. It’s great to hear the notes of how alive this play is. Ms. Mitchell is a beautiful writer and storyteller

It’s a Love Song….

A beautiful, remarkable way to re-experience Hadestown by learning about its inception and learning lyrics that have since been cut and rewritten again and again. Anais has such a calm, welcoming voice as well. Highly Recommended.