Headline Poem 9/13/14 -- Its own song

Inspired by Brandi Carlile and The Avett Brothers who were in concert tonight in Berkekey, here is today's poem.  

Its own song

For those who play 

along 

to the 

wicked and the awesome 

of what is an original 

song, 

the reward is not 

in the cup 

or the sup, 

or the ambition or recognition. 

It's in the set and regret, 

acknowledgement of disconnection 

and reconciliation,

and requested forgiveness 

(we're doing just fine,

but it's too early yet). 

Its in its own song 

that brings us to our feet 

and then turns around 

and saves 

us while we're down 

on bended knee,

crying or confessing, 

or leaving things alone. 

How can so many words 

  not be repeated 

  in all songs that 

  strangers write? 

I raise my glass to those 

who

know how

  to do it right,

by cheering and 

toasting 

the lyrics that swerve 

inside 

our brains with lines 

that linger and rhythm 

that stays. 

Say I won't forget you 

and I know you're telling me 

the truth, 

I'm going to collect your attitude 

and blues,

because your words 

hug pretty girls from Texas and Detroit 

and introduce them to 

the Carolinas 

and the California coast, 

   and whisper,

we know you bleed and hurt 

and smoke,

but we love you just the same. 

     

In spite of everything, 

     the trees still know your name.