What possessed us
to be so calm,
the frigid ocean below
about to take us in its jaws?
We were not extraordinary men,
not particularly religious men,
but when our minds
saw what was coming,
we gathered as one
and began to play.
A friend had told me
how once after his orchstra
played the Pastoral Symphony
the members had to shake their heads
to dispel the notion
that they were in the middle of a forest.
So we all were seized
by a great calm,
already not of this world.
The music became a bridge
over the waters,
over time and space,
over what we know as death,
which still you walk on
as you hum the melody.
This is a strong, thought-provoking poem that has more than a touch of music within it.I really like it, Max. Raynette
An epitaph in music, powerfully expressed. The mood is elegiac, the poetry is world class. Kindest regards, Sandra
A fascinating subject. Crowd psychology allied to the power of music - one for Canetti/Freud. Brilliantly evocative words. Terrific poetry.
In response to Tara and others, I never saw the film! (felt the ad campaign was too schmaltzy) . I'm glad to know the band's heroism was well-dramatized, though!
I am guessing you watched or re-watched the film lately. Yes.. was it not wonderful and tear-jerkingly stoic the way the band played on while the ship sank. It was their job or mission in life. You phrase it in the most prefect and memorable way. There is a lesson to be learned in that single-mindedness. I am glad for the reminder. t x
a nice poem, Max... i remember that scene from the movie Titanic...the guys playing music in the midst of the all the commotion...it struck me even then...your poem refreshes my memory... Asma...
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem
Nice poem, Max I like it... Colin