Poetry remains a popular form of art, and can still be found in modern (and not so modern) music. My favourite song is "Year of the Cat", released in the Seventies by Al Stewart. Have a read of the opening lyrics:
On a morning from a Bogat movie
In a country where they turn back time
You go strolling through the crowd like Peter Lorre
Contemplating a crime...
Translated, you're in Morocco looking to steal something. The rest of the song is filled with clever metaphors and wonderful imagery just like this, but as beautiful as his poetry is it doesn't alone make the song - the way Stewart sings, his piano chords and the various backing instruments all make it worth listening to.
Moving on now to one of the best shows currently on Australian television, if not THE best: "Shaun Micallef's MAD AS HELL", a satirical news program hosted by (of course) Shaun Micallef. One of Australia's best known (and funniest) comedians, Micallef presents the week's biggest stories as either a conventional report, an interview or a sketch - it's worth watching just to hear his one-liners. However "Mad As Hell" has a team of writers, and features six other actors assisting over the course of an episode. With just Micallef on his own, the show might not be as entertaining.
These examples show that a script can be enjoyable, but in today's world where people are turning to music, TV and film for entertainment, a script needs to complemented by engaging performances and character. In short, great media begins with great writing.
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