"There are no words . . . "
As my life is undergoing some massive changes, I find myself reaching backward in time to remember emotions like happiness, joy, and love. Not that there are not people in my life that I don't love and cherish, there are many! But as I grow closer to being single again after over twenty-five years, I just catch myself longing for the years that seemed to be so simple and pure. (And yes, I recognize this is the impact of my current stress-filled existence and the filter of youth, I would appreciate you just granting me this moment of grace and alternative reality, even if for a brief moment.)
NOTE: Strange occurrence, of interest to probably only me, but hey, my blog, my soon-to-be-ex-wife and I were married on June 21st, 1999 and it appears our divorce will be final on August 21st, 2024. Happy Silver Jubilee!
Back to happier thoughts . . .
This masterpiece was a foundational part of my musical journey in the 70's. Released in 1973, I bought it without knowing anything about the artist, as part of the Columbia Record and Tape Club offer that was so prevalent in the 1970's. In 1972, at the ripe old age of twelve, I talked my parents into letting me spend my hard-earned allowance on the Record Offer of that consisted of receiving 12 LP's for $2.86 along with the promise to buy 8 LP's (at a higher-than-retail price) in the future.
This required quite the investment on my part, because this club was heavily slated toward the disorganization of those who would join. For instance, after receiving the heavily discounted initial batch, members were required to purchase more albums at "list price" or "club price," which were often higher than retail store prices. If customers did not return a monthly selection card, keeping track of the cards, having an inventory of stamps, etc. the featured "Album of the Month" would be automatically shipped, often leading to unwanted and unexpected charges.
But, if you were organized, and willing to put up with the hassle of making sure you didn't get charged for products you had failed to respond to in a timely manner, it was a great way of adding to your record collection. I joined this club at least 10 times over the next few years, acquiring a lot of great music along the way.
So back to my original thought . . .
After receiving this record in 1974, I was immediately captivated. The lyrics were mysterious, and the music (all 18+ minutes) never failed to keep my attention. Now it's been years since I've listened to this song, but honestly, listening now, every note is familiar. It was released one month before I proclaimed my devotion to my Junior High love, (who will remain nameless on this public forum) and I remember like it was yesterday sitting in the band rehearsal room listening to this on a portable record player. I couldn't imagine the genius required to write and perform such a magical piece of music. Perfect piece for young people falling in love to listen to.
My favorite part is the simple piano melody heralding the following section of the song:
"The moment you fell inside my dreams
I realized all I had not seen
I've seen many other girls before, ah, but darling
Heaven must've programmed you."
Hope you enjoy this walk through yesteryear.
