Power

Music has otherworldly abilities. If sad, it can make you happy, or even more deeply sad. If you are lacking motivation, the right playlist will make you clean the whole house. These are well documented and borderline cliché observations.

But music has other powers. If lost, it can draw you a map. If you are heartbroken, can tell you why. The right notes and words strung together can explain a situation, provide solace, or kick down roadblocks in your brain. 

It's no wonder everyone would rather listen to music on the train and throughout the day: we aren't entertaining ourselves so much as weaving magic around us to make sense of life. 

But even magic has limits and silence can be the wise sage sitting high atop the mountain with a single finger pressed against his lips. There are times to listen to the music within.