all the walking that we do all the searching for the gold
been awake all night my love i think i'm getting close
the way out is leap of faith like a city street midnight run
the lungs fill up with motor fumes and the robbers have the guns
private undertakers they know the world will turn to ash
sold the line about a huge success gonna go out in a higher class
their blood is blue, they have no clue, the rulers have aligned
making rules to fleece the fools, don't think i'm inclined
already got their hearts
already got their minds
no no no, can't let you have their souls
they've been claimed by the King and soon they'll be going home.
from the towns in the backwood waters near the alligator swamps
men and women with stories to tell about greasing the right palms
checked into a hotel room saw the lights of boston's night
all i could do was shine my shoes and i went out for a bite
capo 4
em
amd7amem
d7am
d7em
amd7
emamd7em
5/28/12
Like McEnroe
The racquet was a load. Like the hammer of Thor, it was too heavy for mortal man. The 7th mahut of this isner match, as with every isner match, was played vintage. My Jack Kramer was letting me down. Or I was letting it down. Keck, with his French made Sportif model, had won 7 straight games to make it 8-2, which made it 69-31 overall, which put him one game away from winning his 7th straight inser match. I stood on the baseline to begin the next game with, hopefully, a big first serve. I was weary. My legs had failed me this day. Coming directly from work to play our weekly mahut prevented me from stopping by the house to grab a handful of nutrition and, perhaps, an extended kiss from my lovely wife, glorious hugs from my wonderful girls, or a wag from brando, the family deck dog--best dog I ever had. No, I had rushed over from work, changed in the parking lot while wondering about Allen city laws against changing in parking lots, drank a few sips of water, token sips really, and went through a hasty warm-up. The wind was gusty and the courts were busy and noisy. One guy walked onto the adjacent court during our sixth game, threw his bag on the bench and engaged in a heated phone conversation with somebody named Misty. Seemed she had used the wrong credit card. He was really upset and said some awful things. After the horrid discussion he left the court. Apparently oblivious to shame. Keck had won that sixth game easily while I worried about Misty. Wondered if she was crying.
Now was my chance to get to 32 games. My PCR with Keck had wavered between .45-.52 for the last several matches and adding another game meant the difference between a .44 and .46 PCR. My motivations were still high. The optimism carried into the beginning of the match was gone, to be sure. Keck had destroyed it with his spectacular play, flawless serving, and running flip shots. Laver never did it better. As it was said of Laver applied to Keck...
...he was "technically faultless, from his richly varied serve to his feather-light touch on drop volleys plus a backhand drive carrying destructive topspin when needed or controlling slice when the situation demanded it."
My play at the net was inconsistent and wild and I had typical vintage serving challenges, but mainly it was Keck winning rather than me losing. I stepped to the line and began my service motion. Usually, after deep breaths and bouncing routines, I will toss the ball fairly high in the air. This to allow time for a full twist of the torso and sufficient bend of the knees before jumping with all my might off my tiptoes as I swing the racquet from behind my head with a chopping motion. Fully extended by the time of impact. At the top of the toss. Feet off the ground, all my power unleashed. I predict I've repeated this basic tennis action 500,000 times. This one was executed well and dropped quickly and left to Keck's forehand side. He swung it into the net, disappointed and aghast. In truth, he let up and fell victim to not bending his knees enough and getting down with the ball. He was thinking about English beer. Realizing this, he lined up up to take my next serve with determination and focus. He too was still motivated and wanted to break out of the PCR ranges we had established. He returned my next serve with a backhand flip that backed me up on the baseline. I managed to get a weak backhand slice over the net but he was coming in and easily put away a volley. 15 all. Wanted to show him some pace so I flattened out my grip and went for the middle ace. Just long as it rang the fence. The second serve got in and Keck lifted it back to my forehand side. Came up a bit and really stepped into it as I went cross court with a fully executed swing. Ball was a clear winner and sent Keck running over to the other court in desperate chase. "Goooorman.", he bellowed.
The credit card worrier was back, hitting with two others. They had noticed the vintage racquets and were watching the match while warming up. "You guys really smack it with those racquets," he said to Keck. "It's called vintage tennis," Keck replied, "We're playing the 7th mahut of our isner match. 1st and 7th mahout of every inner match is vintage. Really makes you concentrate on the form of the swing and the technique required to serve consistently with a vintage racquet makes me a much better server when I play with my modern racquets." He returned the ball to me and I lined up for a chance to really take control of the game, serving at 30-15. My next serve dropped in as well as I gave a mindful effort to my serving form. Keck blasted it back and I returned the shot and this went on for several rounds. Finally, Keck was drawn to the net and I smashed a backhand winner down the left line as he stumbled in vain to make it 40-15. Always one to take a chance, especially if winning is at stake; I decided to go for the flat middle serve again. Wanted to ring the fence on an ace. This one went in and Keck hit a high lob back as he lunged. Got it fairly deep and I was backed to the baseline. I looped a forehand back and he responded with a huge forehand winner down the line on my backhand side. It was a great shot and I congratulated him on his return of serve. At 40-30, I knew going to deuce had to be avoided. Keck's mental dominance was evident. He had won games by extending them and eventually influencing mistakes and executing isner sharpened play. This had to be done now or never. My legs were tired, my shoulders were sore, but I had to bring a kramerian end to this game now. I decided to rush the net after my first serve. This was it. I was going to serve, volley, and go get a drink at 3-8. I decided. The serve was well struck and fell in as I moved quickly to the net. Keck, by now with nothing to lose, hit a cross court forehand top my backhand side. I stopped and lunged left, my racquet rattled the court. The strings caught the ball and the wood frame held. The ball floated over the net, powerless and victorious. Keck didn't even make a move for the ball. "Gorman at the net. Like McEnroe," he said with admiration and disgust.
After an extended break, Keck went on to win the next game easily and claimed the mahut 9-3 and the isner match 70-32. My PCR was .46 and I held hope for resurgence during our eighth isner match over the summer. Usually, during the time when an isner match is concluded and one begins, we will look to play other formats using ISM (Isner Scoring Method). The Vita brothers have entered into an isner doubles match with Keck and I, and through the first mahut (played pre-vintage), we are leading 11-4. This match will be documented.
Now was my chance to get to 32 games. My PCR with Keck had wavered between .45-.52 for the last several matches and adding another game meant the difference between a .44 and .46 PCR. My motivations were still high. The optimism carried into the beginning of the match was gone, to be sure. Keck had destroyed it with his spectacular play, flawless serving, and running flip shots. Laver never did it better. As it was said of Laver applied to Keck...
...he was "technically faultless, from his richly varied serve to his feather-light touch on drop volleys plus a backhand drive carrying destructive topspin when needed or controlling slice when the situation demanded it."
My play at the net was inconsistent and wild and I had typical vintage serving challenges, but mainly it was Keck winning rather than me losing. I stepped to the line and began my service motion. Usually, after deep breaths and bouncing routines, I will toss the ball fairly high in the air. This to allow time for a full twist of the torso and sufficient bend of the knees before jumping with all my might off my tiptoes as I swing the racquet from behind my head with a chopping motion. Fully extended by the time of impact. At the top of the toss. Feet off the ground, all my power unleashed. I predict I've repeated this basic tennis action 500,000 times. This one was executed well and dropped quickly and left to Keck's forehand side. He swung it into the net, disappointed and aghast. In truth, he let up and fell victim to not bending his knees enough and getting down with the ball. He was thinking about English beer. Realizing this, he lined up up to take my next serve with determination and focus. He too was still motivated and wanted to break out of the PCR ranges we had established. He returned my next serve with a backhand flip that backed me up on the baseline. I managed to get a weak backhand slice over the net but he was coming in and easily put away a volley. 15 all. Wanted to show him some pace so I flattened out my grip and went for the middle ace. Just long as it rang the fence. The second serve got in and Keck lifted it back to my forehand side. Came up a bit and really stepped into it as I went cross court with a fully executed swing. Ball was a clear winner and sent Keck running over to the other court in desperate chase. "Goooorman.", he bellowed.
The credit card worrier was back, hitting with two others. They had noticed the vintage racquets and were watching the match while warming up. "You guys really smack it with those racquets," he said to Keck. "It's called vintage tennis," Keck replied, "We're playing the 7th mahut of our isner match. 1st and 7th mahout of every inner match is vintage. Really makes you concentrate on the form of the swing and the technique required to serve consistently with a vintage racquet makes me a much better server when I play with my modern racquets." He returned the ball to me and I lined up for a chance to really take control of the game, serving at 30-15. My next serve dropped in as well as I gave a mindful effort to my serving form. Keck blasted it back and I returned the shot and this went on for several rounds. Finally, Keck was drawn to the net and I smashed a backhand winner down the left line as he stumbled in vain to make it 40-15. Always one to take a chance, especially if winning is at stake; I decided to go for the flat middle serve again. Wanted to ring the fence on an ace. This one went in and Keck hit a high lob back as he lunged. Got it fairly deep and I was backed to the baseline. I looped a forehand back and he responded with a huge forehand winner down the line on my backhand side. It was a great shot and I congratulated him on his return of serve. At 40-30, I knew going to deuce had to be avoided. Keck's mental dominance was evident. He had won games by extending them and eventually influencing mistakes and executing isner sharpened play. This had to be done now or never. My legs were tired, my shoulders were sore, but I had to bring a kramerian end to this game now. I decided to rush the net after my first serve. This was it. I was going to serve, volley, and go get a drink at 3-8. I decided. The serve was well struck and fell in as I moved quickly to the net. Keck, by now with nothing to lose, hit a cross court forehand top my backhand side. I stopped and lunged left, my racquet rattled the court. The strings caught the ball and the wood frame held. The ball floated over the net, powerless and victorious. Keck didn't even make a move for the ball. "Gorman at the net. Like McEnroe," he said with admiration and disgust.
After an extended break, Keck went on to win the next game easily and claimed the mahut 9-3 and the isner match 70-32. My PCR was .46 and I held hope for resurgence during our eighth isner match over the summer. Usually, during the time when an isner match is concluded and one begins, we will look to play other formats using ISM (Isner Scoring Method). The Vita brothers have entered into an isner doubles match with Keck and I, and through the first mahut (played pre-vintage), we are leading 11-4. This match will be documented.
5/27/12
Wizzed By My Head
wonder if the six blade knife was swiss army
stepping out for coffee beans
wild west end where duck was eaten
got a day time job, doing alright
nirvana don't have a gun
no they don't have a gun
no they don't have a gun
grunge was great, but only for two years
then it died
inevitable
finally, he found a gun
song about numchuks
swingin' wide and loudly
throws a chinese star
blades sharpened
wizzed by my head
cash just watched him die
dreaming about cigars
blondes all around
lotion smells and sweat
all the rapper gun raps
sideways shooters
those bullets really kill.
stepping out for coffee beans
wild west end where duck was eaten
got a day time job, doing alright
nirvana don't have a gun
no they don't have a gun
no they don't have a gun
grunge was great, but only for two years
then it died
inevitable
finally, he found a gun
song about numchuks
swingin' wide and loudly
throws a chinese star
blades sharpened
wizzed by my head
cash just watched him die
dreaming about cigars
blondes all around
lotion smells and sweat
all the rapper gun raps
sideways shooters
those bullets really kill.
5/26/12
Mind's In A Knot
e7
ever wanna shake it out
a7
ever wanna get it out
e7 d7
thought you and me could work it out
e7 a7
right here at home.
think it might be our destiny
always be you and me
write down all my philosophies
try to stay unknown.
d7 a7
ohhh, found her in a rush
ohhh, told her bout my crush
ohhh, my mind's in a knot
e7 d7 e7 a7
tell me please tell me if you love me or not
could be a bullet could be a knife
we might live long long lives
you'll pay for all your lies
before your done.
tryin' to stay on a roll
regrets that my heart's been closed
time'll keep on taking it's toll
soon we'll be gone.
ever wanna shake it out
a7
ever wanna get it out
e7 d7
thought you and me could work it out
e7 a7
right here at home.
think it might be our destiny
always be you and me
write down all my philosophies
try to stay unknown.
d7 a7
ohhh, found her in a rush
ohhh, told her bout my crush
ohhh, my mind's in a knot
e7 d7 e7 a7
tell me please tell me if you love me or not
could be a bullet could be a knife
we might live long long lives
you'll pay for all your lies
before your done.
tryin' to stay on a roll
regrets that my heart's been closed
time'll keep on taking it's toll
soon we'll be gone.
5/24/12
Schützen Tent
them germans, them germans
can surely make some beer
sat around the fire all night
wanting to shed a tear
the little girl in cell block 10
was screaming for her life
told me in the schützen tent
don't look them in the eye
them germans, them germans
can surely make some beer
sat around the fire all night
wanting to shed a tear
i know, i know
deep down in my soul
the devil is commanding
and he must be overthrown
them germans, them germans
can surely make some beer
sat around the fire all night
wanting to shed a tear
can surely make some beer
sat around the fire all night
wanting to shed a tear
the little girl in cell block 10
was screaming for her life
told me in the schützen tent
don't look them in the eye
them germans, them germans
can surely make some beer
sat around the fire all night
wanting to shed a tear
i know, i know
deep down in my soul
the devil is commanding
and he must be overthrown
them germans, them germans
can surely make some beer
sat around the fire all night
wanting to shed a tear
5/22/12
Floating In A Fish Tank
the circus barker called up the midgets
they ran around that big tent the whole time
playing tricks on the poor big cats
camel rides for 10 bucks a head. two for one on sundays.
that benitez family got some good flyers
what a life they live
trailers and extended applause
lost a brother, son, and really good tosser last month
cancelled the saturday night show in amarillo
buried him in the graveyard on the north side of town
dedicated the sunday show to his memory
broke it all down on monday and drove to dumas for the next show
on wednesday night, 3 of the midgets got thrown in jail for disorderly conduct
a drunk cowboy made one too many jokes
detectives found his eyeball the next morning, floating in a fish tank
they ran around that big tent the whole time
playing tricks on the poor big cats
camel rides for 10 bucks a head. two for one on sundays.
that benitez family got some good flyers
what a life they live
trailers and extended applause
lost a brother, son, and really good tosser last month
cancelled the saturday night show in amarillo
buried him in the graveyard on the north side of town
dedicated the sunday show to his memory
broke it all down on monday and drove to dumas for the next show
on wednesday night, 3 of the midgets got thrown in jail for disorderly conduct
a drunk cowboy made one too many jokes
detectives found his eyeball the next morning, floating in a fish tank
5/16/12
Hot Glue
parking lot queen
never needed anything from a man
'til the money dried up
borrowed shoes
sold out of hot glue
keeping the lines away
curls and combs
overheated females
5/12/12
Galveston Coast
almost drowned down there, on the galveston coast, had to go deeper and deeper to make sure a big one was rode. passed on a few, got oily saltwater in my mouth, sunglasses aflutter. purchased a boogieboard that morning, a day after constructing massive and precise castles and underestimating the sun's capability to turn me bright pink. wore a longsleeve shirt and tight hat from then on. spent the morning getting the hang of it and instructing my daughters as they caught wave after wave. then went out deeper to find a wave of my own. my youngest daughter stuck with me for awhile, but halted with great concern as she saw me heading for the big breakers. wanted to ride one all the way in. had two concealed modelos iced down on the beach. a huge umbrella covered our possessions. finally got out to where the big waves broke, having to jump as the waves passed to prevent a face shot. learned this the hard way. then it came. saw it from way back. had a rythym so my confidence was high. took the final plunge and leaped on, my elbows tucked ridgedly on the board. whipped by my youngest, who looked astonished and proud, and felt the speed. riding an uncontrollable wave, with complete control. came to a complete and exhausted stop at the ankle water. turned over and laid flat in the shallow water. wife, friend, and lover of our soul, saw the whole thing. perched on the beach with a golden tan and floppy hat. she smilingly motioned approval and reached for the camera. youngest came running over, the most excited of all. oldest missed it, distracted by the loss of her shades, but heard the story, in detail, later that night over fish dinners and shrimp. those modelos went down in a rush, drank from a hotel cup. think of that wave. it's creation, it's maturing, it's final service. indifferent to the seemingly important tasks of our daily actions and uncaring of my ride. this life ain't hard and this life ain't easy. spend your time finding waves, just the right ones, the uncaring ones. ride them all, take drink breaks, and control the uncontrollable.
5/6/12
Hemingway Said
wash behind your ears son.
and pluck out the hairs.
grooming is a selfless act.
andy rooney was a menace.
lights went out.
when the wind picked up.
cuban beans and corn chips.
sweating dancers.
tired and sleepy women.
very loud in the early hours.
and pluck out the hairs.
grooming is a selfless act.
andy rooney was a menace.
lights went out.
when the wind picked up.
cuban beans and corn chips.
sweating dancers.
tired and sleepy women.
very loud in the early hours.
5/5/12
Swaying California Brown
em g
just drove up from kerrville
em c
been sunning in the guadalupe river
g c d c
saw the brightest sky ever last night
g d em c
venus shining like a spotlight
c g
i'll have another
d c
make it two or three
em g
keep 'em on ice my honey
c g
come and dance with me
tidy cafe in a one light town
near dublin coming home
texas ranches go on forever
buzzards sit atop cliffs and wait it out
i'll have another
make it two or three
keep 'em on ice my honey
come and dance with me
hooked by the swaying california brown
military men all get in line
college degree and beans with chili
the road is open and the sights are hilly
just drove up from kerrville
em c
been sunning in the guadalupe river
g c d c
saw the brightest sky ever last night
g d em c
venus shining like a spotlight
c g
i'll have another
d c
make it two or three
em g
keep 'em on ice my honey
c g
come and dance with me
tidy cafe in a one light town
near dublin coming home
texas ranches go on forever
buzzards sit atop cliffs and wait it out
i'll have another
make it two or three
keep 'em on ice my honey
come and dance with me
hooked by the swaying california brown
military men all get in line
college degree and beans with chili
the road is open and the sights are hilly
Jungle Vines
into the costa rican waters we waded
on the hunt for natives and bounty
floated on a battered ship for months
for the chance at riches and fame
set your braids just right darlings
make sure your hat is pulled down tight
trapped in a net of jungle vines and leaves
a two-eyed one nosed spiked haired man looking down on me
a spear blade sticking in my side
jibberish is spoken to a few others that arrived
eat a bite of something in the morning
just to get you going girls
a few kicks later i finally screamed out
thought maybe if i acted like a crazed man they would scatter
they talked some more and eventually began giddy laughing
released me from the net and hooked me to a large limb
keep your friendships in perspective
you're in school to learn honeys
two natives picked up either side of the limb
carried me through the jungle with no concern for my groans
approched what looked like a small village or a tidy campsite
set me above the fire and that's when i passed out.
chicks, boys only have one thing on their minds
and when they become men, nothing changes
on the hunt for natives and bounty
floated on a battered ship for months
for the chance at riches and fame
set your braids just right darlings
make sure your hat is pulled down tight
trapped in a net of jungle vines and leaves
a two-eyed one nosed spiked haired man looking down on me
a spear blade sticking in my side
jibberish is spoken to a few others that arrived
eat a bite of something in the morning
just to get you going girls
a few kicks later i finally screamed out
thought maybe if i acted like a crazed man they would scatter
they talked some more and eventually began giddy laughing
released me from the net and hooked me to a large limb
keep your friendships in perspective
you're in school to learn honeys
two natives picked up either side of the limb
carried me through the jungle with no concern for my groans
approched what looked like a small village or a tidy campsite
set me above the fire and that's when i passed out.
chicks, boys only have one thing on their minds
and when they become men, nothing changes
5/3/12
Colored House
on the other side of time, there is no wisdom
on the other side of time, there is no gray
on the other side of time, there is no coffin
on the other side of time, there is no coughing
on the other side of night, i saw a sun beam
on the other side of night, i saw a colored house
on the other side of night, i saw a windmill
on the other side of night, i saw a bad deal
on the other side of life, we'll be floating around
on the other side of life, we'll be restful souls
on the other side of life, we'll be satisfied
on the other side of life, we'll be sanitized
on the other side of love, i feel a razor blade
on the other side of love, i feel a sunken heart
on the other side of love, i feel a desperate touch
on the other side of love, i feel a merciful touch
on the other side of time, there is no gray
on the other side of time, there is no coffin
on the other side of time, there is no coughing
on the other side of night, i saw a sun beam
on the other side of night, i saw a colored house
on the other side of night, i saw a windmill
on the other side of night, i saw a bad deal
on the other side of life, we'll be floating around
on the other side of life, we'll be restful souls
on the other side of life, we'll be satisfied
on the other side of life, we'll be sanitized
on the other side of love, i feel a razor blade
on the other side of love, i feel a sunken heart
on the other side of love, i feel a desperate touch
on the other side of love, i feel a merciful touch
5/2/12
Bubble
built up a bubble of sorts
control the swaying of the thin layer of soapy film
it never breaks
come close a few times
inside the bubble there are only two people
remember, of course, my wife and i are one
the other is Him
He's always around, in my head, in my dreams
left there, in my bubble, by God
I wanted to escape a time or three
always held back, every time
instincts sharpened by His voice
looking backwards from the bubble
the distance and fleeting is understood
avoiding disaster and dodging bullets
this faith life is hard.
control the swaying of the thin layer of soapy film
it never breaks
come close a few times
inside the bubble there are only two people
remember, of course, my wife and i are one
the other is Him
He's always around, in my head, in my dreams
left there, in my bubble, by God
I wanted to escape a time or three
always held back, every time
instincts sharpened by His voice
looking backwards from the bubble
the distance and fleeting is understood
avoiding disaster and dodging bullets
this faith life is hard.
5/1/12
Horn Sections
early am air seasoned just slightly with coming heat
two dogs chasing flies around, cornered one and got it
photographers and the clueless in rapid discussion
about new orleans guitar players with horn sections
modern day rum runner on the fayetteville to austin line
cigarette hounds step up to the grill and make selections
two dogs chasing flies around, cornered one and got it
photographers and the clueless in rapid discussion
about new orleans guitar players with horn sections
modern day rum runner on the fayetteville to austin line
cigarette hounds step up to the grill and make selections
4/29/12
Iron Eyeballs
these iron eyeballs are rusty
seen some things you could never believe
ignored the all out gang fight
tried to chart a middle way to make it through
seen some things you could never believe
ignored the all out gang fight
tried to chart a middle way to make it through
4/27/12
Ten Cent Plan
a terrible waste
the way we fret fate
closing minds
obsessions and maniacal quivering
scheming and plotting
unknown
unheard
and concerned about it
on the ten year plan
more like a ten cent plan
depending on assumptions and calculations
mathematics as truth
adds up but doesn't really divide into anything
and we can multiply the subtractions
only a fraction of our prime
fate has reasons, to be sure
everything has a reason
anticipation is forgotten
shoulda coulda woulda
a fools fate
the way we fret fate
closing minds
obsessions and maniacal quivering
scheming and plotting
unknown
unheard
and concerned about it
on the ten year plan
more like a ten cent plan
depending on assumptions and calculations
mathematics as truth
adds up but doesn't really divide into anything
and we can multiply the subtractions
only a fraction of our prime
fate has reasons, to be sure
everything has a reason
anticipation is forgotten
shoulda coulda woulda
a fools fate
4/25/12
Bouts Of Inarticulation
'huh?' shrugged the maiden of the house
prone to bouts of inarticulation
and not a beginning of understanding
only her instincts to guide her through
'whaaat?' she asked gloriously after my silence
'your beauty makes you oblivious to the obvious.'
an initial blush reacting to the beauty compliment
then a confused look and noticable thinking
'obviously you are mistaken about my obliviousness.'
'you're aware?' i asked and continued louder
'you know of the suffering and distraction you cause?'
louder still 'of the disappointment and raging heart?'
she stood there as the city shined behind her
my captured soul in her unmerciful possession
'we should take a walk.' she finally said
considered several responses
'why don't we. nice out.'
prone to bouts of inarticulation
and not a beginning of understanding
only her instincts to guide her through
'whaaat?' she asked gloriously after my silence
'your beauty makes you oblivious to the obvious.'
an initial blush reacting to the beauty compliment
then a confused look and noticable thinking
'obviously you are mistaken about my obliviousness.'
'you're aware?' i asked and continued louder
'you know of the suffering and distraction you cause?'
louder still 'of the disappointment and raging heart?'
she stood there as the city shined behind her
my captured soul in her unmerciful possession
'we should take a walk.' she finally said
considered several responses
'why don't we. nice out.'
4/24/12
Funeral Mutterings
when we look back on our last coherent day, preperation will be seen in a regretful light. while moderate and thoughtful preperation can enhance life's experiences, many will spend far too long perfecting their rediness for eternal life. perfection has been known, by One. it is finished man. our bones will be left, but our souls will be gone. funeral mutterings tell the story of your life. pictures too. smile big in all of them. eat a rib-eye. watch a 4th quarter. sleep peaceful, heavenbound.
4/21/12
Villanova
poetry: the point
poetry: the gas tank
poetry: plaza scenes
poetry: floatation devices
poetry: cleaner girl
poetry: sideways thumb
poetry: sour cream
poetry: villanova
poetry: the downtown drunks
poetry: disappointment lingers
poetry: hungry sounds
poetry: foot issues
poetry: the gas tank
poetry: plaza scenes
poetry: floatation devices
poetry: cleaner girl
poetry: sideways thumb
poetry: sour cream
poetry: villanova
poetry: the downtown drunks
poetry: disappointment lingers
poetry: hungry sounds
poetry: foot issues
4/19/12
Poker Nights And Planet Jams
pack 'em up thirty feet high.
the friends, acquiantences really.
provided a diversion, an escape.
an acceptance and ear.
ageed they did, with everything.
dug your music.
called you by your last name.
a youthful indulgence, friendship.
a silly game.
the old souls grow old alone.
realizing they have only light to give.
to others, all the others.
peaceful and friendly, not a drag.
the friendships came with a price.
occupying finite time with disappointments and expectations.
grudges and done-me-wrongs.
real friends always forgive.
eventually.
the coolers and the koozies.
bright shirts and jeans in ninety.
live music all weekend, the brownhawk band.
late night closings with real servants.
smokers, almost all.
poker nights and planet jams.
wandered green lawns for hours.
all the while hoping to make it.
just to look back.
it goes on ond on and on.
people i used to know.
seemed important at the time.
a worthy pursuit of worldly bonds.
and it continues, these friendships.
that always end.
wishin' to understand stillness.
havin' to keep going fast.
hopin' all my old friends are doing fine.
the friends, acquiantences really.
provided a diversion, an escape.
an acceptance and ear.
ageed they did, with everything.
dug your music.
called you by your last name.
a youthful indulgence, friendship.
a silly game.
the old souls grow old alone.
realizing they have only light to give.
to others, all the others.
peaceful and friendly, not a drag.
the friendships came with a price.
occupying finite time with disappointments and expectations.
grudges and done-me-wrongs.
real friends always forgive.
eventually.
the coolers and the koozies.
bright shirts and jeans in ninety.
live music all weekend, the brownhawk band.
late night closings with real servants.
smokers, almost all.
poker nights and planet jams.
wandered green lawns for hours.
all the while hoping to make it.
just to look back.
it goes on ond on and on.
people i used to know.
seemed important at the time.
a worthy pursuit of worldly bonds.
and it continues, these friendships.
that always end.
wishin' to understand stillness.
havin' to keep going fast.
hopin' all my old friends are doing fine.
4/15/12
Kramerian Game
Refinement of the Isner Scoring Method(ISM) is a continuous deliberation of incremental improvements over time. Time, as we know it, has no end. Therefore, this scoring method will be subjected to the American developed and Japanese implemented theory of Kaizen which is founded upon the principle of improvements implemented in a continuous cycle ad infinitum. It is with this intent that two changes were made to the scoring method that significantly impacts isner tennis culture.
First, the definition of a mahut has changed from 10 games to 15 games. The benefits of this improvement are: (1) increased physical exercise. (2) quicker Isner matches. (3) rewards stamina. (4) elimination of mahut ties. The change has also led to the increased importance of the pre-mahut racquet spin. No longer is it an indifferent net gathering ceremony prior to play just to get started. Going forward, its result will determine who serves 8 games and who serves 7. This significant advantage, especially over time, can have an impact on PCR. Keck has recently been seen practicing the toss and spin and volunteers at a higher rate since the inception of the 15 game mahut. Perhaps this task should be rotated and standards set. Another advantage of this change is the ability to break down each mahut in thirds to reflect, motivate, and strategize. Going 4-1 in the final third of a mahut can make a 5-10 loser go home enthused and eager to play the next mahut. The dejection of the opposite scenario is just as impactful. Up 7-3, imagine the mindset of a player who goes on to lose every game of the final third of a mahut. Not only loses the final 5 games, but loses the mahut itself 7-8. The overall impact of the 15 game mahut format is profound. The word corpse is now used to describe a mahut skunk, although the term moulette, formerly used to describe a 10 game mahut skunk, is still used within the context of the first 10 games (or two thirds) of a mahut. To date, Keck has scored 3 moulettes, one against J. Vita and two against me, the most recent during a 15 game mahut that was close to the first ever corpse until I broke serve to make it 1-13. Only two mahuts removed from my second ever mahut win against the man and I was fighting off a corpse. Keck's recent dominate play has been greatly impacted by two things: (1) drills and practice sessions with a certified coach, B. Vita. (2) integration of wood racquets--vintage tennis.
The next change in the scoring method involves the decleration that the first and seventh mahut of an isner match be played using a wooden racquet. Modern grips are acceptable, but tension absorbers are not allowed. The benefits of this improvement, known as vintage, are: (1) the actual game of tennis is being played. (2) promotes a focus on swing form and proper pace. (3) reminds us all of a great American and 1947 Wimbledon singles champion, Jack Kramer. As executive director and founder of ATP (Association of Tennis Professionals), the retired Kramer also led a principled and heroic boycott of Wimbledon in 1973 for the banning of Croatian player Nikola Pilic from the tournament. Pilic had refused to play Davis Cup for his native land and was banned from international play. The American Kramer could not support this draconian state-issued madate in the game of tennis. That year Czech Jan Kordes defeated Russian Alex Metreveli for the tainted Wimbledon title.
Jack Kramer and and his game were described in the free encyclopedia this way:
Tall and slim, he was the first world-class player to play "the Big Game", a consistent serve-and-volley game, in which he came to the net behind all of his serves, including the second serve. He was particularly known for his powerful serve and forehand, as well as his ability to play "percentage tennis", which he learned from Cliff Roche, a retired Railroad Engineer, at the Los Angeles Tennis Club. This strategy maximized his efforts on certain points and in certain games during the course of a match to increase his chances of winning. The key was to hold serve at all costs.
Who would want Jack Kramer serving on the other end of the court, tied 7-7 in the final game of a mahut? Inspired by my unpaid for Jack Kramer wooden racquet, the same kind I had played with in my youth, I had put Keck in position he's never been in during the inception of isner scoring methodology. By losing the first mahut of our 7th isner match 7-8 (and the first ever vintage mahut), Keck had the opportunity to understand the mind of a player down in an isner match. The week of restlessness, the constant air swings, the drawing board. Keck's response to this challenge was quick and resounding. A customary 10-5 mahut win the following week and the 14-1 near-corpsing partially described earlier. Again, the extra focus and coaching was important, but the more deliberate swings required for the vintage racquets has sharpened Keck's forehand considerably and will eventually lead to the same improvement on the backhand. After witnessing the 1-14 mahut, B. Vita offered me some advice, "You got to slow it down. Get a bigger loop going on your swing. You can beat him, Keck makes mistakes." I wasn't so sure and I questioned the coach's intentions, knowing that we had just entered into our first isner match, one in which he had won the first mahut 9-6. Vintage racquets, of course. Keck was now the least of my insner problems. My game was in shambles and I was behind in both my isner matches. Vita tennis players were notorious mind gamers. Joe with his memory, Bill with his reasons, Nick with his possum playing. Heard this song, cowboy quarterback opinions, tennis apparel and equipment, east texas days, dollars and cents, prayers too, line calls, string tension, nascar, dirk, smoking habits, smartphone nuances, new york and philly stories, and just about anything to keep you off your game during a changeover. Due to this, and knowing our inser match would continue to 70, I was initially leery of his advice. Upon reflection, my pace of play has accelerated greatly and should be tempered. The looping swings seem like spitting in the wind against Keck's current precision and an adoption of a more Kramerian game seems more worthy of execution. Never had a coach and it's too late for one now.
Taken as incremental changes, the evolution of the mahut and the integration of vintage, were easily accomplished. Two rule changes that have led to the improvement of the tennis experience. If we are to play this game, if we are to devote a portion of our finite time on earth to the art of playing the game of tennis, we must continue our pursuit of constant improvement and change.
4/14/12
Rankin Blues
a7 e7
stoic glares of remembered years
silent stares, no need for tears
d7 a7
mornings are foggy, nights are clear
d7 e7 e7 a7
nothing suprises, nothing to fear
about seventy turns around the sun
everything learned, had all the fun
i'm still right here, i ain't quite done
more to say from these tired old lungs
my high's been high, and my low's been low
told a few lies, and ate a bunch of crow
ask anyone around 'bout what they know
they'll tell you 'bout the times in stereo
travelled the world, been to timbucktoo
known a few girls, finally found my true
some think they know me, but they haven't a clue
been carrying around the rankin blues
stoic glares of remembered years
silent stares, no need for tears
d7 a7
mornings are foggy, nights are clear
d7 e7 e7 a7
nothing suprises, nothing to fear
about seventy turns around the sun
everything learned, had all the fun
i'm still right here, i ain't quite done
more to say from these tired old lungs
my high's been high, and my low's been low
told a few lies, and ate a bunch of crow
ask anyone around 'bout what they know
they'll tell you 'bout the times in stereo
travelled the world, been to timbucktoo
known a few girls, finally found my true
some think they know me, but they haven't a clue
been carrying around the rankin blues
Speed, The Villain
june, a year ago, had a concept explained regarding time and it's static nature.
no, i huffed originally, time waits for no one, it's always on the move.
time, it was argued, is the most serene and peaceful thing on this earth.
it's humanity that's on the move. the slow ones, the fast ones.
only a few, the still ones we'll call them, understand time's true properties.
possibly, it's the most heaven-like aspect of our very early eternal life.
time is certainly truth we've decided as we acclimate over the centuries.
again, darwin was partially right, except for the monkeys.
our conformity is motivated by pure selfishness. we can't help it.
you can overcome, i protested vigorously, you can decide to think of others first.
you can choose, but you can only choose to overcome your selfishness, he said.
continuing, points were made about killing your own nature and co-crucifixion.
it made perfect sense in that moment, and still does. the burden is gone.
choices and choices await our decisions. consequences to follow.
speed, the villain. not taking the time. in reality, stillness is time....
no, i huffed originally, time waits for no one, it's always on the move.
time, it was argued, is the most serene and peaceful thing on this earth.
it's humanity that's on the move. the slow ones, the fast ones.
only a few, the still ones we'll call them, understand time's true properties.
possibly, it's the most heaven-like aspect of our very early eternal life.
time is certainly truth we've decided as we acclimate over the centuries.
again, darwin was partially right, except for the monkeys.
our conformity is motivated by pure selfishness. we can't help it.
you can overcome, i protested vigorously, you can decide to think of others first.
you can choose, but you can only choose to overcome your selfishness, he said.
continuing, points were made about killing your own nature and co-crucifixion.
it made perfect sense in that moment, and still does. the burden is gone.
choices and choices await our decisions. consequences to follow.
speed, the villain. not taking the time. in reality, stillness is time....
4/11/12
Another Rotation
on the other side of midnight
can't look anyone in the eye
bushwhacked by self reflection
what could've been.
just this side of daybreak
cured of my blues and aches
gonna live another rotation
probably.
can't look anyone in the eye
bushwhacked by self reflection
what could've been.
just this side of daybreak
cured of my blues and aches
gonna live another rotation
probably.
4/9/12
The King's Graveyard
dissent, dissent won't matter in the end
your end or my end
the days will just stop
ours will be the same reality
none of the rightous bickering relevant
bread and wine consummed
confessions uttered
and stuttered
blessings bestowed on the unknown
the hours and hours spent in prayer
hating God
tragedies and circumstances
overcome by hope
producing faith
characteristics of those who persevere
belief is an empty word to most
more a noun that verb these days
the believers club
t shirt affliction
and crosses everywhere
Jesus was not tolerated
nor was any other self described king on this earth
take elvis and michael jackson
they were all hung
this is the king's graveyard
your end or my end
the days will just stop
ours will be the same reality
none of the rightous bickering relevant
bread and wine consummed
confessions uttered
and stuttered
blessings bestowed on the unknown
the hours and hours spent in prayer
hating God
tragedies and circumstances
overcome by hope
producing faith
characteristics of those who persevere
belief is an empty word to most
more a noun that verb these days
the believers club
t shirt affliction
and crosses everywhere
Jesus was not tolerated
nor was any other self described king on this earth
take elvis and michael jackson
they were all hung
this is the king's graveyard
4/7/12
Johnny Goodnight
an oval moon appeared tonight
displaying its glow on the horizon
partly obscured by late dusty clouds
twisters missed this place last week
dressed up in rain gear and dry
sunroof got jammed in the middle of a gusher
wet dashboard and screaming sounds
just wait for the heat wave and drought girls
be wishing for any kinda rain then
an old man looked back at me today
first time ever he looked at me that way
turned from the mirror and opened my mind
took the blinders off and quit chasing acceptance
the gift of age
and it is true that age can give words candidness
holding on to the langauge of our youth
protecting them in the name of the good ole days
but they are only old days and don't matter anymore
this day is truth
tomorrow is speculation and unassured
He was forsaken, yes He was. by His Father.
and ours. His mother was there. and the one.
they called him johnny goodnight
now he was a good man.
displaying its glow on the horizon
partly obscured by late dusty clouds
twisters missed this place last week
dressed up in rain gear and dry
sunroof got jammed in the middle of a gusher
wet dashboard and screaming sounds
just wait for the heat wave and drought girls
be wishing for any kinda rain then
an old man looked back at me today
first time ever he looked at me that way
turned from the mirror and opened my mind
took the blinders off and quit chasing acceptance
the gift of age
and it is true that age can give words candidness
holding on to the langauge of our youth
protecting them in the name of the good ole days
but they are only old days and don't matter anymore
this day is truth
tomorrow is speculation and unassured
He was forsaken, yes He was. by His Father.
and ours. His mother was there. and the one.
they called him johnny goodnight
now he was a good man.
4/6/12
Rubber On The Roads
Think of rubber on the roads
Bonnie and Clyde drove through here
The hitchhikers never saw it coming
The day when roads were obsolete.
Hours and hours of driving folks used to do
To visit relatives or lay on a beach with the tanned
Before the Chinese cut them off and gas was still available
Everyone in America walks now and bikes are abundant.
Just wonder of the rubber on these roads
Plain people and the famous kings and queens
Back before it was decided the definition of liberty had changed
We left the ruins of a revolution in the ditch.
Bonnie and Clyde drove through here
The hitchhikers never saw it coming
The day when roads were obsolete.
Hours and hours of driving folks used to do
To visit relatives or lay on a beach with the tanned
Before the Chinese cut them off and gas was still available
Everyone in America walks now and bikes are abundant.
Just wonder of the rubber on these roads
Plain people and the famous kings and queens
Back before it was decided the definition of liberty had changed
We left the ruins of a revolution in the ditch.
4/3/12
Jesus, The Divider
compromise is the seed of debauchery
turning the eye, missing the last sentence
can't feel my way around.
the raging crowds were for, then against
certainly they would not join the death
didn't make a lick o' sense.
nail up the criminals for an afternoon roast
blood thirsty and rightous citizens
weary from the whirlwind week.
the twelve scattered logically and tragically
self interests and instincts prevailing
alone He bore the weight.
doubt He ever thought of tv preachers
salvation won by guilt is fiction
sold by the greedy.
thus began years and years of conviction
eternal life misunderstood by most
this ain't life and death.
wars waged by the dumb, ignorant, and cowardly
for nothing more than 'national interests'
warriors pay their price.
invoke decency and morality and responsibility
bow your heads for the cameras
in God we trust.
the devil orchestrates the wars of this world
blessed are the peacemakers
Jesus, the divider.
turning the eye, missing the last sentence
can't feel my way around.
the raging crowds were for, then against
certainly they would not join the death
didn't make a lick o' sense.
nail up the criminals for an afternoon roast
blood thirsty and rightous citizens
weary from the whirlwind week.
the twelve scattered logically and tragically
self interests and instincts prevailing
alone He bore the weight.
doubt He ever thought of tv preachers
salvation won by guilt is fiction
sold by the greedy.
thus began years and years of conviction
eternal life misunderstood by most
this ain't life and death.
wars waged by the dumb, ignorant, and cowardly
for nothing more than 'national interests'
warriors pay their price.
invoke decency and morality and responsibility
bow your heads for the cameras
in God we trust.
the devil orchestrates the wars of this world
blessed are the peacemakers
Jesus, the divider.
3/31/12
Rang Them Bells
called photographic,
our mind records.
it's all there,
life fulfilled.
cool winds,
remembered.
dinner talks,
went on 'til 2.
after dinner,
we rang them bells.
mornings too,
wanting to please.
put on your face,
go into the world.
be another's joy,
stare at them in the eyes.
understand their pain,
reduce the sympathy.
only us are left,
for tomorrow.
the mind continues to record,
permanately.
on your last day,
you'll watch the movie.
you will rememeber all,
it was there all along.
the best movies build and build,
carpenters being good at life.
some end with a 'what?',
secrets no more.
i hope to see a colored movie,
one with some jazz.
our mind records.
it's all there,
life fulfilled.
cool winds,
remembered.
dinner talks,
went on 'til 2.
after dinner,
we rang them bells.
mornings too,
wanting to please.
put on your face,
go into the world.
be another's joy,
stare at them in the eyes.
understand their pain,
reduce the sympathy.
only us are left,
for tomorrow.
the mind continues to record,
permanately.
on your last day,
you'll watch the movie.
you will rememeber all,
it was there all along.
the best movies build and build,
carpenters being good at life.
some end with a 'what?',
secrets no more.
i hope to see a colored movie,
one with some jazz.
3/30/12
Rational Thought Completly Avoided
the late arrivals always arrive late
early risers are quick to rise.
the timeless never have a start time
others are confined by a planned destiny.
well intentioned intentions are rare
the inability to not please one's own self.
the sad clowns just clowned around
stepping through hoops and blowing horns.
fakers, everywhere you look, everyone you meet
even the known ones.
takers too, all around, taking and leaving
garbage on the floor.
the crimes. the injustice. the hopelessness.
rational thought completely avoided.
pick sides, read the manual, for the greater good
'at least we're not egypt.'
early risers are quick to rise.
the timeless never have a start time
others are confined by a planned destiny.
well intentioned intentions are rare
the inability to not please one's own self.
the sad clowns just clowned around
stepping through hoops and blowing horns.
fakers, everywhere you look, everyone you meet
even the known ones.
takers too, all around, taking and leaving
garbage on the floor.
the crimes. the injustice. the hopelessness.
rational thought completely avoided.
pick sides, read the manual, for the greater good
'at least we're not egypt.'
3/25/12
Prince Is A True Hero
the diminishing that takes place once business is introduced to a concept is an awful shame. unavoidable, no doubt, but still a shame. the business mandate of negotiation and compromise should not be excluded from artistic endeavors. however, it has to be totally excluded from the creative process and completely seperate from the performance process. it has it's own very narrow space. in addition, it should be managed expertly and efficiently by a person unconnected to rest of the overall process. creative and performance can be the same individual, but certainly doesn't have to be. actors act, writers write, a few great songwrites are great singers. only a few. willie, dylan, cash, bono, lucinda, merle, all the hanks, and all the elvises. many that died too early were mostly dumb and addicted. morrison, cobain, elvis, janice, hendrix, hank sr, and michael jackson. prince is a true hero. so to is pat benetar, who is playing at choctaw casino in durant, oklahoma, just across the texas border. my point is this: take your time and let your gifts be revealed. cannot recollect the original point i was trying to make, but business is business, know what i mean?
gemgc
gemgd
gemgc
gemgd
3/24/12
When Words Go Bare
went up to pay my fine
that lost book finally caught up with me
pulled out fifty six bucks in crumpled cash
'it's sixty four ninety five, honey'
the librarian was not smiling
any way i can pay on it and still get more books?
'the whole thing has to be paid off before you can get more books
we'll take a check'
who's got a check?
'i know. sorry'
it's not your fault
came back after a three dollar atm fee
wandered the library for an hour
melville, twain, roth, explorers, mcmurtry, dylanologist, scottish poems
making eyes and breathing low
a God bless
movies bore me
thumbing through the dying animal
the young and boisterous
and lovely skins
readers are the caged
beginnning and completing over and over
never venturing
until one day
when words go bare.
that lost book finally caught up with me
pulled out fifty six bucks in crumpled cash
'it's sixty four ninety five, honey'
the librarian was not smiling
any way i can pay on it and still get more books?
'the whole thing has to be paid off before you can get more books
we'll take a check'
who's got a check?
'i know. sorry'
it's not your fault
came back after a three dollar atm fee
wandered the library for an hour
melville, twain, roth, explorers, mcmurtry, dylanologist, scottish poems
making eyes and breathing low
a God bless
movies bore me
thumbing through the dying animal
the young and boisterous
and lovely skins
readers are the caged
beginnning and completing over and over
never venturing
until one day
when words go bare.
3/23/12
Burst
automatic response of a trembling mind,
significance in an instant.
the routine men and women,
reluctantly counting myself.
committed to lesser breakouts,
completely enjoyed in a burst.
times when eternal is revealed,
exposing a creator's paradise.
significance in an instant.
the routine men and women,
reluctantly counting myself.
committed to lesser breakouts,
completely enjoyed in a burst.
times when eternal is revealed,
exposing a creator's paradise.
3/19/12
Devil's Masterpiece
religion is incredibly human.
and all that humans touch is corrupted.
invented by us.
refined for us.
easier the better.
push a button and see religion.
being religious means nothing.
other than intense self focus.
knew a guy once who got religion.
went to the mountains to pray.
and live by himself.
still there.
hope he's one with God by now.
i guess i hope that.
the Word is worthy of attention and study.
but religion can hold you back.
the letters of screwtape.
the devil's masterpiece.
we're made to work and serve.
specifically for God.
but it has nothing to do with religion.
we're also made to create.
made in His image.
the Creators's image.
create songs.
and poems.
and paintings.
and faces from rocks.
and love.
think even of technology.
and we'll continue creating.
humanity, i mean.
until the credits roll.
and all that humans touch is corrupted.
invented by us.
refined for us.
easier the better.
push a button and see religion.
being religious means nothing.
other than intense self focus.
knew a guy once who got religion.
went to the mountains to pray.
and live by himself.
still there.
hope he's one with God by now.
i guess i hope that.
the Word is worthy of attention and study.
but religion can hold you back.
the letters of screwtape.
the devil's masterpiece.
we're made to work and serve.
specifically for God.
but it has nothing to do with religion.
we're also made to create.
made in His image.
the Creators's image.
create songs.
and poems.
and paintings.
and faces from rocks.
and love.
think even of technology.
and we'll continue creating.
humanity, i mean.
until the credits roll.
3/18/12
Smallcase T
we walk this earth carefully,
concerned for ourselves.
we take measured steps,
and expect payment.
we don't notice the others hurting,
only the pain of our own scars.
we satisfy our dessert desires,
while children go hungry.
we travel the globe,
cameras at the ready. proof that we've been near a place that is known. a drink of pride to the accomplishment. water, spoiled by scotch. seeking the curve of the horizon with an unlevel mind, the smallcase t our only escape. our only alibi.
cg
fc
gf
cg
concerned for ourselves.
we take measured steps,
and expect payment.
we don't notice the others hurting,
only the pain of our own scars.
we satisfy our dessert desires,
while children go hungry.
we travel the globe,
cameras at the ready. proof that we've been near a place that is known. a drink of pride to the accomplishment. water, spoiled by scotch. seeking the curve of the horizon with an unlevel mind, the smallcase t our only escape. our only alibi.
cg
fc
gf
cg
LaVillita Art
Humidity and beads of sweat
60 types of green
LaVillita art
Mexican dresses and walking sticks
On the rock paths
Last night's margarita spills
The English sit on patios
Commenting on the beauty
Empty buildings with flags on top
Boats of wonderers
Bridges and carvings
Named for dead heroes.
60 types of green
LaVillita art
Mexican dresses and walking sticks
On the rock paths
Last night's margarita spills
The English sit on patios
Commenting on the beauty
Empty buildings with flags on top
Boats of wonderers
Bridges and carvings
Named for dead heroes.
3/14/12
Mortally Unattainable
a writer can only write well once insecurity is banished. in matters of creative art, one's own opinions and tastes and boundries should be exclusively considered. leave the audience to the performance artists, whose pure craft is just as defined and all that matters is other's opinions and tastes and boundries. all writers fall somewhere in between, desiring connection and expression. purity of either is mortally unattainable....'can a war zone hate in the autumn?' is a tremendous sentence.
3/10/12
Blacklisted
blacklisted.
supernova wanna bees.
glowing eyes.
follow the leader.
keep the truth.
to yourself.
hand out the jacks.
one at a time.
those damn jacks.
blame the bureaucrats.
and the bureaucracy.
sing to the true lovers.
clan of wildcats.
separately hunting.
darwin was partially right.
except for the monkeys.
talking souls here.
talking souls filled up with life.
talking souls that never die.
they all have blood.
not everyone has a soul.
sidetracked.
by a blind runner.
boots up to her knees.
world order is lost.
this hollow life.
checked into the riverwalk spa.
with sore feet.
and a clouded mind.
felt relief in an instant.
finally sane.
a host of cooks and butlers.
table full of fable talk.
wildcats wait.
perhaps a playful paw.
glorious faces.
behind shower doors
not yet comfortable.
not yet adjusted.
unlikely to ever be.
foreigner to most.
follower of none.
3/7/12
Woman Farmer
the scandalous
and a two-timer
floated down the brazos.
a woman farmer
hoeing the fields
for the late harvest.
hands of work
she carried it all
too busy to die.
his weak mind
distracted by beauty
and glances.
this tempting world
all the pleasures
all the pain.
and a two-timer
floated down the brazos.
a woman farmer
hoeing the fields
for the late harvest.
hands of work
she carried it all
too busy to die.
his weak mind
distracted by beauty
and glances.
this tempting world
all the pleasures
all the pain.
3/4/12
Texico (Draft): Maggie Graham
"You're telling me you cannot say yes to the proposal?" Maggie Graham was moving closer to the Brazilian President, "What are your alternatives?"
"Magggeeie", he wanted to keep her affection while reasoning, "Texico is too new, too different, too audacious. These things take time to mature."
"What things?” she asked while taking his hand. The Texican Secretary of State was an articulate and educated woman of 35. Her face was flawless and her beauty moved in an upright posture, shoulders back.
"Relationships. Only a decade ago it was Mexicans and Americans. Then the Texans got fed up and wanted to do it their way. Nothing wrong with that, but we have concerns about the Texan influence in Texico. Brazilians know Mexicans, but are leery of people like L. Dean and Barnes."
"Oh, Henrique. You know me. Are you leery of me?" She was close enough to whisper and the President could smell the aromas of lotions, perfumes, and human scents. They had spent the evening dining together at the Palacia da Alvorada, the official residence of the President. Henrique Diego Almeida was a hero in his homeland but famously prone to a wandering eye. The silk white, Irish blooded, green eyed face of Maggie Graham was inches from his lips. Her eyes closed and she kissed him for an extended period. She moved closer to him and her hair fell down. He knew resisting was hopeless and he knew the deal with the Texicans for petroleum rights and refinery development would be announced the next day. The Western Hemisphere Oil Alliance (WHOA) with Canada, Texico, and Brazil would bring Texico gas prices to 1970's levels for it's citizens and ensure the heating and transportation industries would continue to thrive from Rio de Janeiro to New Foundland for all three nations. The Americans continued to rely on the English and Saudi's for oil, the mighty Gulf of Mexico no longer their own. By 2030, the entire American oil industry went bankrupt due to government regulations and controls and gas was $20 a gallon. The bones of Andrew Jackson, the fiercly independent president of the people and who the American twenty dollar bill is named for, was likely shifting dirt around. The bones of Sam Houston, his protege and fellow Tennesseean, were getting the last laugh.
The wind powered most of the Texico's domestic needs. Critics argued that wind could not produce on-demand power. When a Texico A&M scientist, Dr. Dale DeVille, discovered a method to store up electricity, Texico city's were assured of illumination and evening celebrations. In addition, because the government no longer provided lighting of any kind to cities, towns, or estados, power was only used when needed. Corporations were looking for profits and lighting up a high-rise building so you can see it from afar, wasn't worth the expense. St. Patrick's Day or not. Nighttime skylines were obsolete in Texico. Only the street levels were lit. Neon and bright.
"Did you get to sleep last night, Henrique?” a stretching Maggie asked when she woke with the sun rise. Her hands were behind her head, elbows bent out. He turned from the window where he was standing and smiled wearily at her.
"Like a king." he said.
"Magggeeie", he wanted to keep her affection while reasoning, "Texico is too new, too different, too audacious. These things take time to mature."
"What things?” she asked while taking his hand. The Texican Secretary of State was an articulate and educated woman of 35. Her face was flawless and her beauty moved in an upright posture, shoulders back.
"Relationships. Only a decade ago it was Mexicans and Americans. Then the Texans got fed up and wanted to do it their way. Nothing wrong with that, but we have concerns about the Texan influence in Texico. Brazilians know Mexicans, but are leery of people like L. Dean and Barnes."
"Oh, Henrique. You know me. Are you leery of me?" She was close enough to whisper and the President could smell the aromas of lotions, perfumes, and human scents. They had spent the evening dining together at the Palacia da Alvorada, the official residence of the President. Henrique Diego Almeida was a hero in his homeland but famously prone to a wandering eye. The silk white, Irish blooded, green eyed face of Maggie Graham was inches from his lips. Her eyes closed and she kissed him for an extended period. She moved closer to him and her hair fell down. He knew resisting was hopeless and he knew the deal with the Texicans for petroleum rights and refinery development would be announced the next day. The Western Hemisphere Oil Alliance (WHOA) with Canada, Texico, and Brazil would bring Texico gas prices to 1970's levels for it's citizens and ensure the heating and transportation industries would continue to thrive from Rio de Janeiro to New Foundland for all three nations. The Americans continued to rely on the English and Saudi's for oil, the mighty Gulf of Mexico no longer their own. By 2030, the entire American oil industry went bankrupt due to government regulations and controls and gas was $20 a gallon. The bones of Andrew Jackson, the fiercly independent president of the people and who the American twenty dollar bill is named for, was likely shifting dirt around. The bones of Sam Houston, his protege and fellow Tennesseean, were getting the last laugh.
The wind powered most of the Texico's domestic needs. Critics argued that wind could not produce on-demand power. When a Texico A&M scientist, Dr. Dale DeVille, discovered a method to store up electricity, Texico city's were assured of illumination and evening celebrations. In addition, because the government no longer provided lighting of any kind to cities, towns, or estados, power was only used when needed. Corporations were looking for profits and lighting up a high-rise building so you can see it from afar, wasn't worth the expense. St. Patrick's Day or not. Nighttime skylines were obsolete in Texico. Only the street levels were lit. Neon and bright.
"Did you get to sleep last night, Henrique?” a stretching Maggie asked when she woke with the sun rise. Her hands were behind her head, elbows bent out. He turned from the window where he was standing and smiled wearily at her.
"Like a king." he said.
Soul Man's Blues
early wind and budding trees
mind ran off into the alley
thought i saw a morning dove
seems like the devil's been keeping tally.
embark on your lonely path
i wish i could go with you too
words unspoken worthless now
you always knew i loved you.
he was a soul man, the best man i knew
i can remember his words, the soul man's blues.
he was a soul man, all the crowds that he drew
he would just sing out loud, the soul man's blues.
(aharp)hheeeewaaaaassssaaaassoooouuuullmaaaaann. honk. honk.
got wet bones you know what i mean
cold rain all day long, never saw the light
ladies ran off to the shops and boutiques
left me alone until the middle of the night.
e7a7
e7d7
a7e7
d7a7
a7e7
d7e7d7a7
mind ran off into the alley
thought i saw a morning dove
seems like the devil's been keeping tally.
embark on your lonely path
i wish i could go with you too
words unspoken worthless now
you always knew i loved you.
he was a soul man, the best man i knew
i can remember his words, the soul man's blues.
he was a soul man, all the crowds that he drew
he would just sing out loud, the soul man's blues.
(aharp)hheeeewaaaaassssaaaassoooouuuullmaaaaann. honk. honk.
got wet bones you know what i mean
cold rain all day long, never saw the light
ladies ran off to the shops and boutiques
left me alone until the middle of the night.
e7a7
e7d7
a7e7
d7a7
a7e7
d7e7d7a7
Generals And Scouts
they're all behind enemy lines.
following generals and scouts.
stepping carefully.
so leaves don't crack.
baaa rump pa pum pum.
hear our drum.
oh, hear our drum.
oh, woe, oh, hear our drum. (hear our drum).
following generals and scouts.
stepping carefully.
so leaves don't crack.
baaa rump pa pum pum.
hear our drum.
oh, hear our drum.
oh, woe, oh, hear our drum. (hear our drum).
2/29/12
Sugar Boost
keep making the grade
work it out and refine always
perhaps a sugar boost.
play the game to win
choose to make the wise choices
decide to dominate.
continually steer the ship
navigate the rough oceans and seas
be the calm water.
remove the vanity plates
the trophies and ribbons and cash
spill out your guts.
work it out and refine always
perhaps a sugar boost.
play the game to win
choose to make the wise choices
decide to dominate.
continually steer the ship
navigate the rough oceans and seas
be the calm water.
remove the vanity plates
the trophies and ribbons and cash
spill out your guts.
2/26/12
Texico (Draft): Oklahoma Food Drop
The leaders of the succession from America movement, which eventually resulted in the establishment of the Texas nation, which eventually led to the establishment of the Texico nation, were all still involved in Texico society throughout their lifetimes. Well into his eighties, J. T. Barnes streamed live on the wedia wire. Although elecrtrical wires by that time were obsolete and the Texican landscapes are all wireless now. He died in a car wreck near Spur, Texico trying to avoid hitting a jackrabbit. Details of the incident remain undisclosed by the Barnes family. Fran Del Corona grew tomotoes and counted his money until he fell on his head trying to walk across an icy sidewalk in Ft. Worth. He was a hundred and twenty three years old. To this day, most world record opinionators consider him the longest living human ever. Although how can we really know, especially considering the Old Testament. Mr. and Mrs. Fitzgerald continued, often in vain, to change the world. When they were both ninety-eight years old, L. Dean paid a farmer a thousand dollars to take them up in an old crop duster so they could drop some food to starving americans in Ada, Oklahoma. Annabelle, by that time, had overcome her fear of flying and was fearless in the air. Unfortunately, for all involved, including the hungry folks in Ada who never got the food, the farmer proved to be an inadequate pilot and the plane went down on Granite Mountain, near Davis, Oklahoma. No one survived and the seventy-six year marriage of the Fitzgeralds finally ended on earth. The music stopped, but the melodies remain for all Texicans. The red hours followed by stars in the neon night.
2/24/12
Pair Of Hawks
roof of my mouth was bone daddy dry
saw a pair of hawks and had to have some.
other night she broke down and cried
drank brew in the morning, at night it was rum.
plantations and swamps with reptiles
went fast through the air of the heavy night.
destruction and worry on every mile
wished it wasn't me on whom she relied.
you trapper, you hound, you cat
the young are in heat and prowling around.
could never dream of a moment like that
misting skies, clean whiffs, and silent sounds.
a word whispered in an awakening ear
a turn around the tables, chairs, and beds.
exhausted and beat by the volunteers
extended glance i can't get out of my head.
that smirking bastard sits in waiting
urges and temptations were the nails in His hands.
hummed a song from a poem i was creating
we've all been saved and we've all been damned.
saw a pair of hawks and had to have some.
other night she broke down and cried
drank brew in the morning, at night it was rum.
plantations and swamps with reptiles
went fast through the air of the heavy night.
destruction and worry on every mile
wished it wasn't me on whom she relied.
you trapper, you hound, you cat
the young are in heat and prowling around.
could never dream of a moment like that
misting skies, clean whiffs, and silent sounds.
a word whispered in an awakening ear
a turn around the tables, chairs, and beds.
exhausted and beat by the volunteers
extended glance i can't get out of my head.
that smirking bastard sits in waiting
urges and temptations were the nails in His hands.
hummed a song from a poem i was creating
we've all been saved and we've all been damned.
2/20/12
Further West
further west...
one armed dove shot
dairyland cafe
first marching band in texas
around the mid twenties
drivers one after another
on the way to california
drove and drove
stopped in for a stretch
a good night's sleep
eyed by the lawman's eye
he's stoic and suspicious
he believes the devil's lies
further west...
there's more trust out there
and uncaring smiles
everywhere you look there's peace
overcome by a norther
shut in for days and days
fires and stories of justice
on ridges and bluffs
went to the non smoking side
always avoiding the looks
she warmed up to us
after a while
after a little while
further west...
ae
ed
ade
one armed dove shot
dairyland cafe
first marching band in texas
around the mid twenties
drivers one after another
on the way to california
drove and drove
stopped in for a stretch
a good night's sleep
eyed by the lawman's eye
he's stoic and suspicious
he believes the devil's lies
further west...
there's more trust out there
and uncaring smiles
everywhere you look there's peace
overcome by a norther
shut in for days and days
fires and stories of justice
on ridges and bluffs
went to the non smoking side
always avoiding the looks
she warmed up to us
after a while
after a little while
further west...
ae
ed
ade
2/19/12
Stiff Lips
out here we laugh out loud for the home folks
some of them twisting in the wind
tight jeans and raindrops on a metal roof
thought the place took plastic
but she would only take cash
forked over the bills and a few coins
almost worthless 'cept for slots
wished I'd brought my shades
wanna hide my eyes from the truth
expressions muted and upper lips stiff
lunatics surround the fire pit
and a harmonica blows
some of them twisting in the wind
tight jeans and raindrops on a metal roof
thought the place took plastic
but she would only take cash
forked over the bills and a few coins
almost worthless 'cept for slots
wished I'd brought my shades
wanna hide my eyes from the truth
expressions muted and upper lips stiff
lunatics surround the fire pit
and a harmonica blows
Cracked Smiles
hundreds of dollars were lost
given to the house
odds were never in our favor
yet we still ached for the chance
an ounce of suddeness
a hope for love
slow greetings and cracked smiles
lonely boy hours
players of all kinds
watching from the rafters
as the women fought it out
in the early morning
given to the house
odds were never in our favor
yet we still ached for the chance
an ounce of suddeness
a hope for love
slow greetings and cracked smiles
lonely boy hours
players of all kinds
watching from the rafters
as the women fought it out
in the early morning
2/8/12
Ninety-Six Magnavox
scooted that monster from the garage
too heavy and awkward to pick up
'specially for my 2nd half back
make sure the bones are protected
what a glory it was
big and bright
biggest tube ever owned in my family
up 'til that time anyway
the glove that didn't fit
green day
the steroid rangers
the heroic cowboys
and their 3 inch headlines
stared and stared for so many hours
hypnotized and surrounded by sound
in stereo
teletubbies and dora
the blue house bear
nine eleven catatonic and weary
no planes in the sky
spirit of braveheart
electronics crashing
asteroids and space invaders
tennis matches and an unbeaten streak
lost flippers and late night shows
weather worries and tragedy channels
where are they now
behind the music
thank God steely dan won the grammy
everything is outsync
stanley cup full of gravy
go stars
men eating grubs
desperate women
dog shows and gator trappers
oil just spilling in the ocean
cramer cried about the bond market
bet he got a bailout
recounts and chads
i did not have relations with that woman
protests and bombs and murders
c-span boring us to death
rather, washington boring us to death
the last waltz
when it had all been done
green was purple
and popping noises
sitting with a pile of junk now
ready for burial
that ninety-six magnavox thirty-three inch was a good television
real heavy though.
too heavy and awkward to pick up
'specially for my 2nd half back
make sure the bones are protected
what a glory it was
big and bright
biggest tube ever owned in my family
up 'til that time anyway
the glove that didn't fit
green day
the steroid rangers
the heroic cowboys
and their 3 inch headlines
stared and stared for so many hours
hypnotized and surrounded by sound
in stereo
teletubbies and dora
the blue house bear
nine eleven catatonic and weary
no planes in the sky
spirit of braveheart
electronics crashing
asteroids and space invaders
tennis matches and an unbeaten streak
lost flippers and late night shows
weather worries and tragedy channels
where are they now
behind the music
thank God steely dan won the grammy
everything is outsync
stanley cup full of gravy
go stars
men eating grubs
desperate women
dog shows and gator trappers
oil just spilling in the ocean
cramer cried about the bond market
bet he got a bailout
recounts and chads
i did not have relations with that woman
protests and bombs and murders
c-span boring us to death
rather, washington boring us to death
the last waltz
when it had all been done
green was purple
and popping noises
sitting with a pile of junk now
ready for burial
that ninety-six magnavox thirty-three inch was a good television
real heavy though.
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