(performance copy)

Land of the free, grave of the grave

monument holding the brave of the brave

each to be one, all to be all

each that one is, let us not fall

oft to be belted pure to be spread

over the seas the storms & the beds

bunting & Europe let us be free

each to be itching dying to dance

sitting at cocktails, eating a cherry

listening to fireworks, beer & sherry

melons & ice cream anyone dreams

out of the rocker into the soccer

baseball, houseplants, raining on leaves

voices like fountains rising next door.

Energy shortage, land will solve all

with some help from the trapdoor sun

if he come out she shine over all

come on America let’s have a ball!

larry goodell / placitas, new mexico

I wrote this in the year Jimmy Carter became President and declared we had to do something about our oil consumption and massive energy problems . . . & put our emphasis on solar, promoting less invasive energies . . . even I was hopeful then, especially with the White House installing solar panels which Robber Baron Reagan ripped off when he became President . . . and through subterfuge freed the hostages putting a calculated end to the hostage crises that sullied Carter’s Presidency . . .

I read this poem numerous times at 4th of July Firehouse (the Old Firehouse) parties and other celebratory events . . .

love to all and happy 4th! and may rain come your way if you are in dire need, as we are in New Mexico . . .

larry