8/30/12
Blood On The Plate
Those boys sounded just like Merle Haggard.
Eat with your fingers if you have to.
Two two one or one two three for a waltz.
Told the story of Mustang Sally.
That don't look well done to me.
Look at all the blood on the plate.
Back roads on the way home, lost them on Custer.
Not many more left around.
A few by the prison and behind the gardens.
Nowhere left to get lost.
Full street of cars to see the navyman off.
To float on the oceans of this world.
He'll grow up, hope he becomes a man.
The singing starts in fifteen minutes.
The Lord lifted high.
The ladies are rushing around and smelling good.
The clock! The clock!
Gotta make better decisions in this world.
Or you will pay the price.
8/25/12
Net Man
to move, to create new moments
to go, to plow different fields
cry with the net man...
fly with the net man...
to stop, an action as well
to linger, a bit too long
try with the net man...
die with the net man...
to ask, to respect your response
to glow, like the moonbeam faces
to go, to plow different fields
cry with the net man...
fly with the net man...
to stop, an action as well
to linger, a bit too long
try with the net man...
die with the net man...
to ask, to respect your response
to glow, like the moonbeam faces
8/22/12
Unknown Nouns (English Ale)
She indicated all my errors with the red pen.
Massive amounts of red ink reminded me of a war.
The bleeding vowels, the unknown nouns, the exclamation sword.
When the questioners came at the end...'what has happened here?'
'huh?' asked the ignorant girl, and continued, 'you say you got some beer?'
'it's not cold but we could put it on ice', i told her with complete confidence
'you drink ice in yer beer?,' she stayed curious, 'is it any good?'
'depends on the beer', i replied as i took a long drink of my english ale.
8/20/12
Seeing In The Dark
so many days we laughed and rambled
so many times we were lost
we walked the night and burned the candles
never once considered the cost
seen colors you can't imagine
been so many places i forgot
your love is lasting and lasting
yes, i been seeing in the dark
without you i know that i'm stronger
thinking bout doing without
girl i would live this life much longer
absolutely no doubt
when you wake me in the morning
when you feel my beating heart
know that my soul is still a stormin'
yes, i been seeing in the dark
cem
amg
cem
amdg
8/19/12
Sweet Singer
There must be thousands of fish in this water.
Twenty four million hats.
I'm not really sure if we are supposed to be here.
Seems like forever since the rightous man came.
Correctly deciding we couldn't' save ourselves.
Then the world was left to us.
The wasters.
The criminals.
The selfish.
The prideful.
A few come and go through the years.
Speaking the truth and crying out to the lost.
They are hated.
They are destroyed.
Everybody wants truth.
They say anyway.
Hear that?
That's truth coming home.
A sweet singer.
Beach Bums Are A Myth
What a strange place for a chandelier.
Beach bums are a myth.
Dolphins and pictures of girls in bikinis.
The same annoying beat with every song.
Lenny Kravitz was right about rock and roll.
Dead it is.
Finally some island music.
Goes with the musty and salty air.
The perfect photograph does exist.
If only the rain would stop.
Not tonight she said.
Everything attached to a phone number.
Robot voices on the other end of the line.
8/8/12
Coconut
it was a hot day
the pavement moved and the dogs dug holes
the inside was cold
bless those who work in the air conditioning industry
gypsies talking bout revolution
citys lame and asleep, the coastlines are aglow
towns with numbered streets and dirty gas stations
the east/west roads are travelled and travelled
car loads of glowface robots
knowledge is only taught here
there is no more to know
what a depressing prospect
truth is, we make our own knowledge
the old will hold on to their own knowledge
the imposition is relentless
no compelling at all
well, take your knowledge and find a tremendously large coconut
crack it open, without breaking it in two
place your computer beeper into the coconut immersed in the coconut liquid
bury it in a suburban landfill
the most repectable method of waste control
certainly better than trashing the holy oceans
from there, we can know nothing
what a joy that would be
finding things out on our own
learning from dumbs of the previous generation
knowing that we will get our time and the time is now
we don't know nothing
we are the creators, defining what knowledge means
all the broken folks of the past
all the foolish hypnotized lads
the lure of adulation is a curse on truth
to live outside the law you must be honest
agreed mr dylan and mr thompson
yes, it was a hot damn day.
8/4/12
Local Wines
charting my way through the night was more challenging than one would think at 3:30 in the morning. the youngest princess had called on a device and pleaded for us to come and rescue her from her own illness and the affections of a cat. i understood. we shared the same allergy tendencies and the combination of horses, cats, hay, and tall grass was too much to bear. no doubt a late night was had by all. posing and unoing and all the clothing. these girls were grown up. understanding of the need for nutrition and water was lacking however, and the little one was paying the price. when the call came in, the glow filled the bedroom. who would be calling at this hour? was our baby alright? she claimed she was ill and that she needed to come home from the sleepover party. despite initial thoughts of frustration, I awoke, dressed, jumped in my car, and took the long, narrow, and dark back roads to the raining grace ranch. i carried a plastic bag, the kind that litter the land and oceans of this world, just in case a place to vomit was needed. this could be bad. she was ready when i arrived and the gate was opened as i remembered herchel walker and drew pearson. the diminishing is a shame and undeserved. she was ready when i pulled up. packed up and tended to by the wonderful diva mother. yes, when the cat licked her face, she was done. compromise and alternatives were not considered. in the car, on the long trip home, we talked and talked. she seemed to feel better. came home to an attending mother and watched the trampoline competition from london. she slept into the next day, long after we returned from picking grapes and learning about how texas roots can be combined with spanish vines to create the sweet grapes of local wines. it was a tremendous harvest. on to the greens, with wet towels and plenty of water.
the urge to play the hated game came on rapidly and without warning. recently, i had found a card granting me comlpimentary golf at various courses around the area. and the deadline was approaching. knowing the value of such a good fortune, i devised a plan to play more golf. my daughters were invited, but both declined. would've taken my wife too, but her sanity was absolute as she declined the invitation from the 'crazy man'. guess i couldn't blame them. records for extreme heat had been set in recent days. and this was texas, where heat records have been closely monitored, documented, and debated for centuries. it was hot. but i feared the slow, crowded golf course and felt playing in the heat of the day would be best for purposes of player avoidance. truth was, i wanted to play alone. tolerance for small talk and etiqette awarness was long ago abandoned and is considered an intrudance on the truly good things about golf. peace and quite is sought. only then could i resurrect and refine my trusty swing. true, the rust had accumulated, but i knew the reason for bad shots. putts too. got to keep the hands ahead and your head back. that's it. it was hot, but shade was abundant and the play was fast. a solo journey until meeting up with a fine father and son for the last three holes. the lesser pace was welcomed by that point. iced beer and a birdie on the card. i would enjoy my golf resurgance. the father was full of good advice and when i pared the final hole, his compliments meant something to me. the son was going up east for college. to become a doctor. no doubt he would save lives. his golf game was sure to get better because his fundamentals were good and he wasn't a hothead. after 18th hole rituals we parted ways and i brought home a celebration feast to the family and marveled at my 44/41/85. i felt loose, and satisfied.
then the general called, the doctor was in town, the professer was coming too. all were going to a cajun joint, gonna shake out the old man's blues. hear that melody and pop you rap rat. you got the cheap beat. or something along those lines. it was with my wife's blessing and encouragement, i sped into the night to meet old men and old friends with old eyes and old stomachs and old brains and old talks. on the way i thought of golf and the peace found. for hours. the sauna-like effects of the heat were surely healthy and there was drinking too. i pulled into the crawdaddy house and saw the sparkling lights and heard electronic music.
8/2/12
Lights Out
on top of the world
the money and the girls
the ones with the pretty curls
lights out, lights out, lights out, lights out
used to be so fly
didn't even have to try
now he sits at home and cries
lights out, lights out, lights out, lights out
then he learned kung fu
got rid of the blues
started hanging with his crew
lights out, lights out, lights out, lights out
his girl got trapped in a jar
the scene was so bizarre
we tried wishing upon a star
lights out, lights out, lights out, lights out
then they picked up some mud
it was lights out and his buds
they sprung his one and only love
lights out, lights out, lights out, lights out
cfx2
cg
cgcgcgc
7/25/12
Nervous Tick Tockers
d c
Pleasers and teasers.
g d
Suicidal sneezers.
g d
Rockers and mockers..
g c
Nervous tick tockers.
c d
Lovers and mothers.
c g
Sisters and brothers.
d c
Rappers and clappers.
g d
Mid afternoon nappers.
g d
Climbers and timers.
g c
Low rent five and dimers.
c d
Drinkers and thinkers.
c g
Flamboyant sinkers.
d c
Grinders and finders.
g d
Midnight minders.
gd
gc
cd
cg
Pleasers and teasers.
g d
Suicidal sneezers.
g d
Rockers and mockers..
g c
Nervous tick tockers.
c d
Lovers and mothers.
c g
Sisters and brothers.
d c
Rappers and clappers.
g d
Mid afternoon nappers.
g d
Climbers and timers.
g c
Low rent five and dimers.
c d
Drinkers and thinkers.
c g
Flamboyant sinkers.
d c
Grinders and finders.
g d
Midnight minders.
gd
gc
cd
cg
7/21/12
Reptiles Rule The Yard
.we take the criminals out to west texico.
.out between sweetwater and guthrie.
.there we hang 'em in the sun.
.make sure the wild hogs have their fun.
.target practice for the bow hunters.
.all the prisoners in tents within the razor wire.
.left there to work, then die.
.society better off without the killers of innocents.
.mercy shown to the citizens of our great nation.
.termination of the guilty without any rehab attempts.
.the judges send them away as applause fills the courtroom.
.and they don't get any camera time.
.assigned a number and all their teeth are pulled.
.no television no visitors.
.hosed down once a month.
.reptiles rule the yard.
.out between sweetwater and guthrie.
.there we hang 'em in the sun.
.make sure the wild hogs have their fun.
.target practice for the bow hunters.
.all the prisoners in tents within the razor wire.
.left there to work, then die.
.society better off without the killers of innocents.
.mercy shown to the citizens of our great nation.
.termination of the guilty without any rehab attempts.
.the judges send them away as applause fills the courtroom.
.and they don't get any camera time.
.assigned a number and all their teeth are pulled.
.no television no visitors.
.hosed down once a month.
.reptiles rule the yard.
7/20/12
Tulsa Uprising
.the neon lights are brightest at dusk.
.the texican women take their time.
.hot jets and twisters with water smooth as glass.
.okies keep coming in over the red river.
.better let the archers know to tighten their bows.
.up near powderly they seem to have snuck in.
.back in the early thirties the americans cut them loose.
.something about bankruptcy and the tulsa uprising.
.the mayan people know the art of the brush off.
.and francisco del corona put his foot down.
.the texican women take their time.
.hot jets and twisters with water smooth as glass.
.okies keep coming in over the red river.
.better let the archers know to tighten their bows.
.up near powderly they seem to have snuck in.
.back in the early thirties the americans cut them loose.
.something about bankruptcy and the tulsa uprising.
.the mayan people know the art of the brush off.
.and francisco del corona put his foot down.
7/17/12
Tomato Bread
Those blood suckers.
Lining up for the quarterly squirm.
Protect that China doll.
With dots that connect.
Holy moly it's a hot day.
Huge billowing black clouds.
Brought relief in the early evening.
Iced wines and tomato breads.
Capered side of a calf.
Popped another top last night.
A matter of understanding.
Reconciliation and embraces.
Another of the 35 thousand.
Begins with a goodbye.
Anticipation of days.
And daily prayers.
Just give us this day.
Lining up for the quarterly squirm.
Protect that China doll.
With dots that connect.
Holy moly it's a hot day.
Huge billowing black clouds.
Brought relief in the early evening.
Iced wines and tomato breads.
Capered side of a calf.
Popped another top last night.
A matter of understanding.
Reconciliation and embraces.
Another of the 35 thousand.
Begins with a goodbye.
Anticipation of days.
And daily prayers.
Just give us this day.
7/15/12
Made By Humans
decisions have consequences
circumstances unpromised
assured of nothing
made by humans
and don't forget fate
the selfish do rule this world
the devil's den
in my very early eternal life.
circumstances unpromised
assured of nothing
made by humans
and don't forget fate
the selfish do rule this world
the devil's den
in my very early eternal life.
7/14/12
Chardust
My eyes been burnt.
A layer of chardust remains.
The dim view.
Damn johnson grass made a cut.
Left leg left bleeding from the injury.
It stings and you know life.
It heals and you know death.
A layer of chardust remains.
The dim view.
Damn johnson grass made a cut.
Left leg left bleeding from the injury.
It stings and you know life.
It heals and you know death.
7/7/12
Howling And Hissing
Nothing never really happens.
Something is always going on.
There are times of boredom beyond measure.
Connections of wires and waves won't save us.
Somehow our nods and reactions have meaning.
Only truth and courage to guide us through.
The wallowers have their ways out.
Diversions and distractions blocking the paths.
Monsters on the outside looking through broken walls.
Howling and hissing all afternoon.
One day the creek will rise and the flood will continue.
Water, always the decider.
Plain spoken and perfectly honest.
Saw through the charms and compliments.
Calculating and self-serving she was.
Full of worldly knowledge.
Empty of soul.
Something is always going on.
There are times of boredom beyond measure.
Connections of wires and waves won't save us.
Somehow our nods and reactions have meaning.
Only truth and courage to guide us through.
The wallowers have their ways out.
Diversions and distractions blocking the paths.
Monsters on the outside looking through broken walls.
Howling and hissing all afternoon.
One day the creek will rise and the flood will continue.
Water, always the decider.
Plain spoken and perfectly honest.
Saw through the charms and compliments.
Calculating and self-serving she was.
Full of worldly knowledge.
Empty of soul.
7/1/12
Ashes In My Eyes (Lyrical Space Rides)
never heard nothing like the velvet underground
distortion and echo sounds
rambling lyrical space rides
back to the audience and numb.
the wind keeps blowing ashes in my eyes
i wonder, i wonder, of the the day that i will die
hope to have singing, hope to have cheers
talk about the fine times and break a smile, my dear
The ones who embark on slippery paths.
Carefully walking the roads with serious intent.
Ignorant to the unknown and lurking tempters.
With glowing faces and occupied minds.
Unprepared for the collisions and destruction.
Leaving stray animals and orphans all around
Left to the earthworms and red oak roots.
The winds carry the melodies and poems.
distortion and echo sounds
rambling lyrical space rides
back to the audience and numb.
the wind keeps blowing ashes in my eyes
i wonder, i wonder, of the the day that i will die
hope to have singing, hope to have cheers
talk about the fine times and break a smile, my dear
The ones who embark on slippery paths.
Carefully walking the roads with serious intent.
Ignorant to the unknown and lurking tempters.
With glowing faces and occupied minds.
Unprepared for the collisions and destruction.
Leaving stray animals and orphans all around
Left to the earthworms and red oak roots.
The winds carry the melodies and poems.
6/28/12
Oblivion Of Planets
Telepathic nose ring.
High tone printers.
Delivery clouds.
Plutonic stripes.
Katalystic memories.
Oblivion of planets.
Asian strangers.
Retreat. Retreat.
High tone printers.
Delivery clouds.
Plutonic stripes.
Katalystic memories.
Oblivion of planets.
Asian strangers.
Retreat. Retreat.
6/24/12
Moondust
take a step back, or up rather
through the clouds above the blue
beyond where gravity reigns
take a look from the moon
stand in the moondust and raise a glass
mock the important
sneer at the tradgedies
plead for peace.
through the clouds above the blue
beyond where gravity reigns
take a look from the moon
stand in the moondust and raise a glass
mock the important
sneer at the tradgedies
plead for peace.
6/23/12
These Gods (Blooms Blow Away)
These gods been whining.
Complaining 'bout bread crust.
Mirrors only reflecting the outside.
Their insides are a godly mush.
.be back in five.
.got the whirling wind.
.sun makin' purple.
.and blooms blow away.
Full of vanity and weakness.
Growing soft on top of the hill.
These gods are a big disappointment.
The good they coulda done.
6/15/12
Save The Best For Paris
.throughout our journey we learn how to live.
.to have mercy and know the pain of others.
.the happy souls know the heart pump is mortal.
.this machine needs tender love and care to maintain.
.lubrication and proper use.
.it will beat for the love of others and victory.
.it will weep for lost brothers and sisters.
.it will sink when reality does not equal expectations.
.pour it out, your blood all over the floor.
.give it up and become the patriarch.
.give it up and save the world.
.save the best for paris.
.to have mercy and know the pain of others.
.the happy souls know the heart pump is mortal.
.this machine needs tender love and care to maintain.
.lubrication and proper use.
.it will beat for the love of others and victory.
.it will weep for lost brothers and sisters.
.it will sink when reality does not equal expectations.
.pour it out, your blood all over the floor.
.give it up and become the patriarch.
.give it up and save the world.
.save the best for paris.
6/12/12
Dobro
.heard a painter hum.
.heard a hammer pound.
.heard an island drum.
.heard a silent sound.
.heard an engine start.
.heard a roaring flame.
.heard talk about art.
.heard a wise man sang.
.it's all you got when your blinded.
.by the neon lights of late night San Antone.
.them neon lights of late night San Antone.
.been blinded once again in San Antone.
.heard a bathtub fill.
.heard a coffee pot.
.heard you got a good deal.
.heard you loved alot.
.heard an old dobro.
.heard a four four beat.
.heard a face that glowed.
.heard stomping feet.
.heard a hammer pound.
.heard an island drum.
.heard a silent sound.
.heard an engine start.
.heard a roaring flame.
.heard talk about art.
.heard a wise man sang.
.it's all you got when your blinded.
.by the neon lights of late night San Antone.
.them neon lights of late night San Antone.
.been blinded once again in San Antone.
.heard a bathtub fill.
.heard a coffee pot.
.heard you got a good deal.
.heard you loved alot.
.heard an old dobro.
.heard a four four beat.
.heard a face that glowed.
.heard stomping feet.
6/10/12
European Pride
.awake and peer through the broken fence.
.weeds, four feet high and blooms of healthy trees.
.the air is heavy with the smell of humid heat.
.the songs and colors of european pride.
.a relic from the past as we hold on to what we know.
.the world has shrunk to avatars and masks.
.red dirt slides and grunts and groans.
.the relief of victory and the knot of defeat.
6/5/12
Digger Without A Plow
.partly, it was a magnificent night.
.the bells, the conditions, the spells.
.but there was tradgedy on the inside.
.predicted futures of woe and decline.
.perhaps love will save all of us. One another.
.a mishap to bring us closer.
.the mind of a hero in a place of need.
.searching for saved souls to encourage and convince
.heart gets twisted and wrecked.
.needing love to survive and enduring anguish.
.eventually, it will squeeze off the blood to the bloody ole mind.
.mind over body, lost in the end.
.boredom, envy, apathy, and days of leisure.
.traps of spider webs and quicksand.
.birds of all colors will be left, still singing.
.the life of a digger without a plow.
.the bells, the conditions, the spells.
.but there was tradgedy on the inside.
.predicted futures of woe and decline.
.perhaps love will save all of us. One another.
.a mishap to bring us closer.
.the mind of a hero in a place of need.
.searching for saved souls to encourage and convince
.heart gets twisted and wrecked.
.needing love to survive and enduring anguish.
.eventually, it will squeeze off the blood to the bloody ole mind.
.mind over body, lost in the end.
.boredom, envy, apathy, and days of leisure.
.traps of spider webs and quicksand.
.birds of all colors will be left, still singing.
.the life of a digger without a plow.
6/2/12
Blues Is Best in A Small Bar
the eternal mind laughs loudly
if only we could stop the raging of others
oh, the days when we described silence
noises from places other than ourselves
the twangy singer could move her hips
but no one has the voice of cray
thank you very kindly
the cavernous place was filled
gittery musicians and ponytail holders
parking was easy
ten dollar drinks were worth it
the brother of stevie ray
showed him his first chops
referred to as the badest man
and he was
hammond organ lifted the place
blues is best in a small bar
the glowing advertisements
golf courses and city magazines
struggling stair climbers with canes
renegade radio--knon-- left some stickers
lyrics on a hotel notepad
parlor guitar from 1856 looked like it would play
blind lemon jefferson played it in the early 20's
one thing is clear
nobody wants to listen to the blues
yawns and early departures
before smoking gun
encore was the best of the night
silence quieter as the room emptied
the strings rang grief and defeat
the blues found
finally.
5/28/12
Fleece The Fools
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
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
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.
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