Rare Groove, Feb. 16, 2011

PJ Harvey --- In the Dark Places

I am such a fan of singer-songwriters, because usually they create the songs that stick in my mind.  Their ability to pen such magnificent songs, coupled with great performance of that song, sets them apart from the rest of their field.  PJ Harvey is one such artist.  Her intense voice and impressive command of various instruments including guitar, piano, and saxophone make her an entertaining act to enjoy.

Marcus Jamison, the Rare Poet

I'm Starting to Think I Need a Few Memos

How to Be Happy: Another Memo to Myself

You start with your own body
then move outward, but not too far.
Never try to please a city, for example.
Nor will the easy intimacy
in small towns ever satisfy that need
you have only whispered in the dark.
A woman is a beginning.
She need not be pretty, but must know
how to make her own ceilings
out of all that's beautiful in her.
Together you must love to exchange
gifts in the night, and agree
on the superfluity of ribbons,
the fine violence of breaking out
of yourselves. No matter,
it's doubtful she will be enough for you,
or you for her. You must have friends
of both sexes. When you get together
you must feel everyone has brought
his fierce privacy with him
and is ready to share it. Prepare
yourself though to keep something back;
there's a center in you
you are simply a comedian
without. Beyond this, it's advisable
to have a skill. Learn how to make something:
food, a shoe box, a good day.
Remember, finally, there are few pleasures
that aren't as local as your fingertips.
Never go to Europe for a cathedral.
In large groups, create a corner
in the middle of the room.

—Stephen Dunn