The darkness, the loop of negative thoughts on repeat, clamours

“The darkness, the loop of negative thoughts on repeat, clamours and interferes with the music I hear in my head.” Thus spoke Lady Gaga, a singer whose voice has reached millions, yet who reveals here the hidden struggle that dwells even in the hearts of the mighty. These words are not merely confession, but revelation: that the greatest enemy of creativity, of joy, of life itself, is often not the outer world but the inner darkness, the endless repetition of self-doubt and despair. And yet, even as she names the power of this shadow, she also points toward the greater truth—that within her still sings the music, a divine gift struggling to break free from the storm of the mind.

The origin of this saying lies in the lived experience of artists, prophets, and dreamers across the ages. For those who carry vision are often beset by torment; the brighter the flame of inspiration, the darker the shadow that seeks to extinguish it. Lady Gaga, like many before her, gives voice to this battle—the inner war where one part of the soul yearns to create and another whispers destruction. The ancients would have called this the struggle between the daimon and the demon, between the guiding spirit of destiny and the tempter who drags man toward the abyss.

History gives us countless examples of this fight. Consider the life of Vincent van Gogh, who painted fields of gold and skies of fire, yet was tormented by inner voices of despair that would not let him rest. The music in his head—the vision of beauty he poured onto canvas—was constantly interfered with by the darkness of his mind. Though he created works that now inspire millions, he could not silence the clamour within, and it drove him to tragedy. His story is both warning and testament: warning that inner darkness can destroy, testament that even in torment, the human soul can still create immortal beauty.

Lady Gaga’s words also echo the struggles of the warrior and the leader. For even kings and generals have known the loop of doubt. Abraham Lincoln, remembered as one of the greatest leaders of America, was throughout his life haunted by melancholy so deep that he once feared it would end him. Yet in the midst of his despair, he held on to his vision of union and justice. The darkness clamoured, yet the music of his purpose sang louder still. From this, we learn that greatness does not come from a life free of struggle, but from a spirit that fights to create even when the shadows press heavily against it.

The lesson of Gaga’s words is profound: acknowledge the darkness, but do not surrender to it. The negative loop may repeat, but it is not the only song. The music in your head, the vision, the dream, the calling—this is the true voice of the self, the divine spark that must be guarded and nurtured. To let the shadows dictate your life is to silence the gift you were meant to give the world. To resist them is to join the long line of souls who created light even while surrounded by night.

Therefore, let each one act with wisdom. When negative thoughts rise, name them, but do not bow to them. Strengthen the music within by daily practices: write, sing, create, or labor at what you love, even when your spirit feels heavy. Seek the fellowship of others who remind you of your worth, for light shared is light multiplied. Guard your body with rest and discipline, for the health of the flesh strengthens the courage of the mind. In this way, though the darkness may still whisper, it cannot drown out the music.

So let these words remain in your heart: “The darkness, the loop of negative thoughts on repeat, clamours and interferes with the music I hear in my head.” They are not words of despair, but of battle—an honest confession of the struggle that belongs to every soul who dares to create. Take them as both warning and encouragement. For if even the great are visited by shadows, then you are not alone in your fight. And if they, despite the clamour, still bring their music to the world, then so can you. Let your music rise above the noise, and let it shine as a beacon to others who are still searching for their own song.