The wise speak profoundly in the common tongue.
James Coda is a story artist from the Pacific Northwest.
Introducing
James Coda blends the emotional power of lyrics with the immersion of prose. Crafting memorable narratives through his unique Song & Story approach. With over 300 songs, many transformed into stories, Coda invites writers and readers to discover how rhythm and words have crafted stories through history. From huddling around fire pits in caves to TVs in the front room, from Shakespeare’s timeless lines to today’s lyrics, it’s the rhythm of the words that mingle with the meaning that is remembered.
“A writer lights a fire at night to see who comes in from the dark.”
Teaching the Rhythm of the Words
Coda’s course, Song And Story: The Rhythm of Words, offers an informed guide for authors, performers, and speakers; anyone who wants to infuse their words with lyrical cadence, making memorable phrases. Coda provides the tools to blend rhythm and narrative.
Available on jamescoda.com and supported by his YouTube channel, the course includes lessons on:
• Crafting lyrics into stories.
• Building song and story into narrative arcs using theme.
• Using rhythm and phrasing to creating memorable prose.
• Blending emotion, structure, and cadence into timeless narrative.
“There is power in words and always has been. We can strengthen them.”
Notable Works
Coda’s Song & Story method has shaped his works, including:
• The Unity Series is a protopian sci-fi epic inspired by the song StarFall.
• The Spider’s Tooth is a gothic novella exploring a women’s dying wish and ancient power.
• Tear is a short story born of a three-verse song focused on the forms of grief.
• The Bells of Christmas is a children’s story of reluctant adults led by a young shepherd girl.
Each of these stories began as a song, demonstrating Coda’s belief that the rhythm of the words influences prose.
Whether a lyricist, author, or speaker, the Rhythm of Words helps craft memorable phrasing.
“Each generation renews the tradition of storytelling their way.”
Creative Roots
As a studio musician with the Joffrey Ballet and performer along the West Coast, he learned how rhythm, lighting, movement, and storytelling intertwine—an insight born of experience he channels into his writing and teaching.
“Between the paper and pen is the lightning, the storm,
and the fresh scent of the meadow.”
Explore and Connect
Join the journey through The Rhythm of the Words study course at jamescoda.com, or follow Coda’s journey with sample tutorials on his YouTube channel and newsletter. Join the quest for the art of lyrical storytelling on social media and his Amazon author page.
Explore and Connect
Join the journey through The Rhythm of the Words study course at jamescoda.com, or follow Coda’s journey with sample tutorials on his YouTube channel and newsletter. Join the quest for the art of lyrical
storytelling on social media and his Amazon author page.