In "Run the Song: Writing About Running About Listening," New York University professor and former New York Times music critic Ben Ratliff presents a unique blend of memoir and critique. The book chronicles Ratliff's journey into running, which began hesitantly in 2012, and how it intertwined with his passion for music. As he navigated the landscapes of his Bronx neighborhood, Ratliff found inspiration not only in the physical act of running but also in the auditory experience accompanying it. This work delves into the relationship between motion, sound, and thought, exploring how each influences the other in unexpected ways. Through short yet profound chapters, Ratliff examines an array of musicians, from classical composers to contemporary artists, creating a literary symphony that resonates deeply with readers.

Ratliff's introduction to running was unceremonious, occurring during a casual morning stroll around an island near his friend's home in Maine. What started as a skeptical experiment evolved into a daily ritual in the bustling streets of the Bronx. Each run became an opportunity for introspection and discovery, influenced by the day's chosen soundtrack. Ratliff describes the transformative nature of listening, suggesting it moves beyond mere desire into intentionality, a process devoid of rigid goals. Instead, it embraces the present moment, aligning closely with the fluidity of both music and movement.

As the pandemic set in, Ratliff channeled his experiences into writing, capturing the essence of his runs and the music that accompanied them. Despite his extensive background as a music critic, Ratliff approaches his subject with humility, acknowledging the challenges inherent in translating auditory experiences into words. Music, according to Ratliff, is perpetually in motion, escaping capture even as it invites engagement. His methodology involves harmonizing with the music rather than confronting it, emphasizing continuity over conflict. This approach mirrors the rhythmic patterns of both running and listening, creating a seamless narrative flow.

The book's structure reflects its thematic depth, comprising thirty-nine chapters varying in length from two to eleven pages. Each chapter functions akin to a song, offering a distinct yet interconnected exploration of diverse musical genres and figures. Ratliff's erudite yet ecstatic contemplations span a wide spectrum of artists, including Beethoven, Bach, Ice Spice, Theo Parrish, John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins, Thelonious Monk, Sofia Gubaidulina, and Dry Cleaning. His analyses reveal the intricate connections between these varied works, highlighting universal themes and individual nuances.

At the core of "Run the Song" lies Ratliff's meticulous attention to the interplay between the music streaming through his earphones and the physical act of running. This dual motion fosters a dynamic interaction between the familiar and the ever-changing, much like a well-known song revealing new dimensions upon each listen. Beyond its musical explorations, the book serves as a meditation on community and individuality, balancing intellectual rigor with sensory pleasure. Readers are invited to engage deeply with the material, mirroring the author's own attentive listening practices. Thus, "Run the Song" emerges as a testament to the enriching possibilities when disparate elements converge in harmony.