top of page

SONGS

I had a dream, which was not all a dream. The bright sun was extinguish'd, and the stars Did wander darkling in the eternal space, Rayless, and pathless, and the icy earth Swung blind and blackening in the moonless air; Morn came and went---and came, and brought no day, And men forgot their passions in the dread Of this their desolation; and all hearts Were chill'd into a selfish prayer for light: And they did live by watchfires---and the thrones, The palaces of crowned kings---the huts, The habitations of all things which dwell, Were burnt for beacons; cities were consum'd, And men were gather'd round their blazing homes To look once more into each other's face; Happy were those who dwelt within the eye Of the volcanoes, and their mountain torch: A fearful hope was all the world contain'd; Forests were set on fire---but hour by hour They fell and faded---and the crackling trunks Extinguish'd with a crash---and all was black. Can't see nothin' when darkness falls over; We've got no use for your riches here— Makes no difference to the fire and thunder— How does it feel to know ya wasted so many years? Caused so many tears—folks livin' in fear, Forced to sell their lives away; The people you've hurt have got no use for ya now, So who ya gonna run to when your world falls out? The brows of men by the despairing light Wore an unearthly aspect, as by fits The flashes fell upon them; some lay down And hid their eyes and wept; and some did rest Their chins upon their clenched hands, and smil'd; And others hurried to and fro, and fed Their funeral piles with food, and look'd up With mad disquietude on the dull sky, The pall of a past world, and then again With curses cast them down upon the dust, And gnash'd their teeth and howl'd: the wild birds shriek'd, And, terrified, did flutter on the ground, And flap their useless wings; the wildest brutes Came tame and tremulous; and vipers crawl'd And twin'd themselves among the multitude, Hissing, but stingless—they were slain for food. Can't see nothin' when darkness falls over; We've got no use for your riches here— Makes no difference to the fire and thunder— How does it feel to know ya wasted so many years? Caused so many tears—folks livin' in fear, Forced to sell their lives away; The people you've hurt have got no use for ya now, So who ya gonna run to when your world falls out? And War, which for a moment was no more, Did glut himself again: a mean was brought With blood, and each state sullenly apart Gorging himself in gloom: no love was left; All earth was but one thought—and that was death Immediate and inglorious; and the pang Of famine fed upon all entrails—men Died, and their bones were tombless as their flesh; The meagre by the meagre were devour'd, Even dogs assail'd their masters, all save one, And he was faithful to a corse, and kept The birds and beasts and famish'd men at bay, Till hunger clung them, or the dropping dead Lur'd their lank jaws, himself sought no food, But with a piteous and perpetual moan, And a quick desolate cry, licking the hand Which answer'd not with a caress—he died. Can't see nothin' when darkness falls over; We've got no use for your riches here— Makes no difference to the fire and thunder— How does it feel to know ya wasted so many years? Caused so many tears—folks livin' in fear, Forced to sell their lives away; The people you've hurt have got no use for ya now, So who ya gonna run to when your world falls out? The crowd was famish'd by degrees; but two Of an enormous city did survive, And they were enemies: they met beside The dying embers of an altar-place, Where had been heap'd a mass of holy things For unholy usage; they rak'd up, And shivering scrap'd with their cold skeleton hands The feeble ashes, and their feeble breath Blew for a little life, and made a flame Which was a mockery; then they lifted up Their eyes as it grew lighter, and beheld Each other's aspects—saw, and shriek'd, and died— Even of their mutual hideousness they dies, Unknowing who he was upon whose brow Famine had written Fiend. The world was void, The populous and the powerful was a lump, Seasonless, herbless, treeless, manless, lifeless,— A lump of death—a chaos of hard clay. Can't see nothin' when darkness falls over; We've got no use for your riches here— Makes no difference to the fire and thunder— How does it feel to know ya wasted so many years? Caused so many tears—folks livin' in fear, Forced to sell their lives away; The people you've hurt have got no use for ya now, So who ya gonna run to when your world falls out? The rivers, lakes, and ocean all stood still, And nothing stirr'd within thier silent depths; Ships sailorless lay rotting on the sea, And their masts fell down piecemeal; as they dropp'd, They slept on the abyss without a surge— The waves were dead; the tides were in their grave, The moon, their mistress, had expire'd before; The winds were wither'd in the stagnant air, And the clouds perish'd; Darkness had no need Of aid from them—She was the universe! Can't see nothin' when darkness falls over; We've got no use for your riches here— Makes no difference to the fire and thunder— How does it feel to know ya wasted so many years? Caused so many tears—folks livin' in fear, Forced to sell their lives away; The people you've hurt have got no use for ya now, So who ya gonna run to when your world falls out?
Darkness
Lyrics: Lord Byron; Lyrics (Chorus), Arr.: Blair Duluoz
What is this place? Who among you can tell me what it is? You say I've changed— Well, I'm not gonna tell ya, honey, why that is. Lookin' round so strange... I guess ya didn't notice when it went from mine to his. We've only got ourselves to blame: We always knew that it would go down like this. "How can it be," she asks of me, "That we've been overtaken?" We've gotta get back to where we once was Or else we'll be forsaken! You cry, "I see the streets Awash with blood!" Well, I say, "Bring back the Flood!" "It's time to go." Butcha never will tell me just what time that is. While, down below, I hear the queen a-shoutin' out, "Well, let the games begin!" It don't matter though: The cards are stacked against me—I can't win. There's some things only Time knows, But we'll find out soon enough, my friend. "How can it be," she asks of me, "That we've been overtaken?" We've gotta get back to where we once was Or else we'll be forsaken! You cry, "I see the streets Awash with blood!" Well, I say, "Bring back the Flood!" There's somethin' happenin'... Y'know, it's got the Shadows whisperin'— "Oh, can this be the end?" Well, I don't know, but it sure does look like it. The howlin' winds Are tellin' me, "Get out while you can!" 'Cause Suffering's Unchained, and, y'know, she's lookin' for revenge! "How can it be," she asks of me, "That we've been overtaken?" We've gotta get back to where we once was Or else we'll be forsaken! You cry, "I see the streets Awash with blood!" Well, I say, "Bring back the Flood!"
Bring Back the Flood
Blair Duluoz
She said, "You've got cocaine eyes." I said, "I'm just surprised— Wasn't expectin' you to stop by." She scoffed, "Well, I'm not; I'm just wasting time." I said, "That's quite brave and bold of you." She said, "Maybe, but doubly cold are you," As I stood there frozen like a whale harpooned, And she yelled, "If I were Ahab, I'd kill you too!" So, I'm stuck right there: gobsmacked stare, White as a flag, waving scared, Nursing apologies with Baudelaire, Hoping poetry will pay my fare. And she turns at the door, waiting to hear more, So I steal a line from Poe and say, "Nevermore!" And she forgives me, but I know it won't endure, 'Cause one day she'll find out what all those books were for... So, we come together, holding fast. She thinks we'll last forever; I say, "Well... perhaps." She asks, "What does that mean?" and takes a step back. I say, "It may be forever or it may be the last." Right then I knew I was burning up fast, Dodging lightning as I clung to the mast; Like Orpheus, there was no lookin' back— And we both know the result of that. So, I sang my peace on that winter night As her shadow dissipated under hotel light, And the sound of cavaliers drowned out my cries. As she was walking away, I knew I was right: Forever, sure, but not for long: Our personalities were just too strong; We could handle our whisky better than our wrongs— If all good things end, this will surely go on... Well, you drive off to your parents' place, And I'll get a job foldin' paper planes, And I'll fly on over as you're sayin' "grace," But it won't come out till you've seen my face, And I'll touch down in some muddy waters, Wrestlin' for ya like Bloom for Martha, Brushin' up on Keats and Renaissance artists, Loadin' canons with prose for love bombardment— That's when your ship comes in, Givin' old warnings of "never again," Knowin' good and well what will happen If we put aside our anger and make amends, 'Cause we're one of two, not born anew— Just me and you breaking through. But, another battle will ensue— Until then, we'll believe it's few and Miles between like rotten dreams That float by without disrupting The ship's orbital destiny. But, all bad things must repeat. Then, we'll claim not to have seen it coming As I blow my nose on drug money, And you brush up on Sunday funnies, Sayin', "Geez, you're a damn bad joke, honey!" So, it's back to the patchy motel carpets, And antique stores, and flea markets, Wonderin' what I did to break your heart As I watch you walk away down the boulevard, And the streets were fill'd with lightning, And they were flooded with fire and writing Like "Mene, mene, tekel, upharsin!" But, once it's over we'll start again— O' it's never over, 'cause we always meet the same end...
Bye Bye Melody
Blair Duluoz
Empty shelves and broken clocks, Faded signs and forgotten locks— You've got no keys, No questions to answer. As you watch statues, with their heads trained down, Recite memories of your ancient town— The words you know well, But, the language, you don't understand. The times are changing, They won't pay you no mind. So, you better get with it, Or you'll get left behind. You're hiding behind glass, Think that no one can see That what you really are Ain't who you claim to be. The blind porter asks, "Where ya been?" You say, "Everywhere!" But, your kicks are clean— You'll never walk a mile in another man's shoes, Let alone your own. Voices echo down cold corridors, Bouncing mysterious metaphors— Fix your tie in the mirror, Say, "You don't know what you're talking about!" The times are changing, They won't pay you no mind. So, you better get with it, Or you'll get left behind. Aw, look atcha hiding: So many secrets to keep— You hope they don't discover That there's nothing, really nothing to find. You've got your telephone eye, Your newspaper shield and dictionary— Hold it up to protect you From reality. Ah, your windowpane barricades Melt from the heat of your flashlight. Now you're the one being put on blast— What's got your tongue tied? The times are changing, They won't pay you no mind. So, you better get with it, Or you'll get left behind. Ah, you need a sheet of paper To tell you who to be, So you make it your business To rag on those that are free. Keep your hands in your pockets, Always tryna act so tough— Well, if you're really so smart, Tell me, what are you so afraid of? The times are changing, They won't pay you no mind. So, you better get with it, Or you'll get left behind.
Clean Shoes Show No Secrets
Blair Duluoz
Last call— They're turnin' all the lamps down low. That's all— Get watcha want or else go home. 'Cause it's closin' time... Y'know ya gotta go! Last call— Bring another bottle over here. That's all— Y'know you've got me feelin' weird. Now it's closin' time... My, my! How the hours disappear! Last call— Tell me watcha wanna know. That's all— I'm waitin' for t' lay down low. 'Cause it's closin' time... And I don't wanna go! Last call— If ya love me, baby, let it show. That's all— If you're feelin' good then let it flow. Y'know, it's closin' time... And I love ya, baby, like the wind blows! Last call— Where we gonna head to now? That's all— I'll go anywhere, what, when, or how. 'Cause it's closin' time... Baby, why don't we head out and get down? Last call— Who ya gonna telephone? That's all— You've got me ringin' head to toe. Y'know, it's closin' time... Woncha let me follow ya home? Last call— Aw, how the clock's tickin' slow. That's all— My God! and is it time to go? Yes, it's closin' time... But what time it is, I just don't know!
Closin' Time
Blair Duluoz
I gotta walk that lonesome highway; I gotta walk that ragged road; I don't know where I'm heading, But I don't got nowhere else to go. I gotta roam till I run dry; I gotta roam till I can't no more; Gotta keep on towards that horizon, That painted sky where freedom soars. That lonesome road, that endless highway, Lord, it's all I've ever known! I gotta keep on, keep on walking Till I reach my sacred home. I gotta keep on moving on forward— There's nothing left where I come from; All I've got's this moonlit highway, I'll follow down till my day comes. I'm gonna hold my head up high, Lord; I'm gonna leave my blues behind; I'm gonna find that land of promise Or, Lord, I'll surely die trying. That lonesome road, that endless highway, Lord, it's all I've ever known! I gotta keep on, keep on walking Till I reach my sacred home. I don't know where I'm going; I don't know what's in store; But, Lord, I pray this starry skyway Is taking me to diamond shores. All my trials and tribulations, All this hurt that I've endured, Lord, it must lead to something better, Or else what have I suffered for? This lonesome road, this endless highway, Lord, it's all I've ever known! I gotta keep on, keep on walking Till I reach my sacred home. That lonesome road, that endless highway, Oh, Lord, it's all I've ever known! They say that night can't last forever, But, Lord, sometimes I just don't know...
Desperate Highway
Blair Duluoz
Night at the edge of the morning, You ring the phone for me: "This world's got my head a-turning, And I can't get no sleep. How can I close my eyes With fear raging all around me? How can I sleep through the night When I don't know if I'll see morning? There's war overseas, Fighting on the homeland, And they say I'm not safe at home, So where in the world can I go To dream?" The future is uncertain, And that is frightening, But everything that could be This world's already seen. The words may change, Some get lost in translation, But the plot remains as one; Our worries are new but not unknown— Hold on. Life sure can get lonely When you are of one mind; I've got one spirit only, But maybe we can share the time. Hold on till sunrise— You don't need sleep to dream; There's beauty in the night, Though it may be hard to see. The world is the same Whether night or day, What changes is point of view, But we all look upon the same moon— Don't you?
Don't You?
Blair Duluoz
Morning: soft sunlight and coffee breath, Incessant buzz, cold nose, fall out of bed, Distant voices, tired silhouettes, Birds chirp, I'm late for work, we live again. Open curtains, closets, spirits, Burnt toast, my daily woes, so it begins, Grab my coat and drag my cigarette, Turn key, quiet streets, I take a breath. Fast feet, rushing traffic, dew on windowpanes, they're cracked, yet Underneath cold spirits sleep while dead men float by ignoring, Enslaved by dollar signs, their eyes no thought behind, No time to reflect on designs of daily life, The light flicks on, I walk along the fading stripes, My fading happiness replaced by borrowed time. Clock in, clock out, clock ticking down Busy sidewalks tired feet walk Away give no thought to working So hard all day, sun recedes now Night is falling, city in shroud The dead mourners in procession Proceed to a new possession, My shoes beat down crackèd concrete Buildings made by men with no sleep Is nice, to bad my insomnia Resigns my mind to sleepless nights... Shadows cover, Lay head to rest, My conscious Kneels to darkness, Surreal visions, Mock existence, Dreams reigned by Nightmares.
Everdays
Blair Duluoz
Leave thy cold dispute of what is fit and what is not— There's more within your struggle than what's won and what was lost. Oh, throw away your haunted thoughts that shriek and do not serve you— These ghosts give poor advice, y'know: the past is of no use. Break open your windows so that locks will be no problem, And pay but passing glance to men with riddles—you can't solve them. Cease your useless shivrin' in that cage of liberty; You're too scared to wake the dogs—I thought you wanted to be free? Dry your eyes— The world it does not weep for you. Realize That your tears only obscure the truth. Alas, everything you thought you knew! Weep no more for what's in store: the future follows no one— Let not these pointless pictures rule your mind on constant rerun. Royalties, you need not crown: all pomp is but in vain— What good is golden sceptre when you're lyrin' in the grave? Hand up all your sorrows on the railings of the station— The train is moving forward, and y'know ya cannot take them. Burn up expectation in the engine of what may; Desire naught but what you've got and greet the morn of the new day. Dry your eyes— The world it does not weep for you. Realize That your tears only obscure the truth. Alas, everything you thought you knew! Hide your cards against your chest, show no one your plants— If the wind gets word of it, your fate's gone to another's hand. Wait, but do not hesitate—you'll know the moment's right— All on your own in the unknown—I hope you make it out alive... Dry your eyes— The world it does not weep for you. Realize That your tears only obscure the truth. Alas, everything you thought you knew!
Everything You Thought You Knew
Blair Duluoz
Ya look nice, talk right, smile bright, can't bite, don't fight, feel so uptight. You're warm as cold ice, four eyes, tongue ties, unwise, horse flies—geez, you're such a sore sight. And you're so scared, can't bear, ain't fair—who's there?—beware!—don't feel safe here... So, ya get in, look fit, new skin, fresh grin, no wit, butcha cain't win. I say, "Good luck!" You'll get what's comin' to ya. "See ya!" I hope you're happy now... 'Cause you'll get yours anyhow. Ya watch face, clock pace, time race, shoelace, no base, trippin' up with no grace. You've run out, bad route, gone down—look out!—found out what it's about. Now ya feel smart, Sweet Tart, new start, your part, playin', workin' so hard. You've got new clothes, cut rows, no nose, bad bows, don't know watcha cain't blow. I say, "Good luck!" You'll get what's comin' to ya. "See ya!" I hope you're happy now... 'Cause you'll get yours anyhow. Now ya run back, feel bad, attack, get flack, so sad, drive yourself mad. And you're sighin', cryin', reel an' rhymin', whinin', 'cause they know you're lyin'. So you're callin', fallin', haulin', walled-in, ballin', goin' all-in. Ya got got, hot rod, how odd, bad though, always wantin' watcha don't got. I say, "Good luck!" You'll get what's comin' to ya. "See ya!" I hope you're happy now... 'Cause you'll get yours anyhow.
Good Luck
Blair Duluoz
America your hands are stained: Ten shots, another poor man slain— How many more will it take? There's blood upon your sacred name, Your cities flood in tears of rage— How many more will it take Till they heed the cry? How high must waters rise? How long must bullets fly Till good men don't gotta die? Liberty locked up in chains, Freedom fled, Justice enslaved— How many more will it take? War drums pounding—back again! What lies will defend this campaign? How many more will it take Till they heed the cry? How high must waters rise? How long must bullets fly Till good men don't gotta die? America your soul's aflame: Your smoke-filled skies, what will remain? How many more will it take? And every hand that plays your game With Judas, Brutus, Pilate shakes— How many more will it take? Till they heed the cry? How high must waters rise? How long must bullets fly Till good men don't gotta die? Till good men don't gotta die...
How Many More Will It Take?
Blair Duluoz
Whatever you took from me, don't give it back— I don't want it. It's your responsibility now. Have fun with that— Now you own it. If I could see how things were meant to be, I'd keep myself in tact— Obey love's wit. There are things in life we can't control— Can't predict it. Time spins revolutions around me— It's disorienting, I don't know which way to go. And the sands of Chance move beneath me— My foundations, I can't count on anymore. I can't take it anymore— Just tell me what I need to know To loosen up and let go. I can't take it anymore— Can't tell what's real or not, What's ruins or what's rock. Open up my mind and take your time— The glare of headlamps, cameras, and flashlights Beats down my soul... Take what you will, I have nothing to give. Say what you feel— Break down doors of expectation. And I'll take the stars, Build an empire just for you. But, I can't take this Waiting around forever. "Life's a carousel," they say, And I'm stuck on it. And anytime I blow away, I'm back where I started, Making rounds on the notion of self-remedy— And there's no Dramamine to help with rides like this. "Might as well have a good time," she says, "At least try it— You never know, you never know, you never know, you never know..." "What lies below, Beneath our cracked skies." There's a place I know like paradise— Or something. It's supposedly perfect and pristine—at least, That's what they told me. I don't know what it's like, but I'll tell you one thing: It sound's boring. I can't spend eternity doing nothing Forever. Time spins obligations around me— It's disorienting, I don't know which way to go. And the song and dance expedite me— My arrangements, Can't discern anymore. I can't take it anymore— The mighty rush and clock, Days fall to eternity. I can't take it anymore— I've stacked my cards against me, Can't pull another lease. I can't get out, I'm surrounded— All the tax collectors chasing after me Beat down my soul... Take what you will, I have nothing to give. Say what you feel— Break down doors of expectation. And I'll take the stars, Build an empire just for you. But, I can't take this Waiting around forever. Break another glass, and break the day— If you can bear it. Words flow through the teeth of the foolish, So I stay quiet. Voices mow through my ears—it's getting Hard to ignore it. Gonna have a good time— "At least try it, You never know, you never know, you never know, you never know..." You never know...
I Can't Take It Anymore
Blair Duluoz
Another day breaks, making me wake In the same state with a headache, Wasting away from my mistakes. Day-old makeup runs down the drain Like cold rain—washing away, Taking the weight off of my face, Making me plain. The blame is the same as yesterday: My fault for playing the game, Placing bets in my name, claiming I wanna stay Till my face fades to grey. My brain takes a new holiday to delay my decay— New paintings underway, disarray at the bay, Disobey to convey, champagne grace In such a state... O' and I want to start again, But don't want to put in the effort to make amends, Turning enemies into friends— I'd rather rase my revenge. O' and I want to start fresh Without repaying my regrets— Don't wanna face the consequence, So I'll suspend my discontent. Another picture frame hanging astray, Maybe someday I will replace, The stock image with my own shape. To embrace the previous days, Rather than pray to erase and break the slates That display my disgrace in my minds maze. O' and I want to start again, But don't want to put in the effort to make amends, Turning enemies into friends— I'd rather rase my revenge. O' and I want to start fresh Without repaying my regrets— Don't wanna face the consequence, So I'll suspend my discontent. I don't know, And I don't really care What was now and what was then, What is real and what's pretend, Where to start and where to end. O' it never really stops, So there's no point in trying to talk About the things we just can't control. O' and, honestly, I do not Have the answers that you want, So it's easier to just let it go... O' and I want to start again, But don't want to put in the effort to make amends, Turning enemies into friends— I'd rather rase my revenge. O' and I want to start fresh Without repaying my regrets— Don't wanna face the consequence, So I'll suspend my discontent. I don't know, And I don't really care What was now and what was then, What is real and what's pretend, Where to start and where to end. O' it never really stops, So there's no point in trying to talk About the things we just can't control. O' and, honestly, I do not Have the answers that you want, So it's easier to just let it go... O' it never really stops, So there's no point in trying to talk About the things we just can't control. O' and, honestly, I do not Have the answers that you want, So it's easier to just let it go...
I Don't Know (and I Don't Really Care)
Blair Duluoz
I used to believe In true love; I used to believe Somehow it would all work out, That all these lonely roads, These broken tracks, This pain and torment Would lead to something greater— Dreams of peace everlast. Fifteen years lost, Walking blind, Afraid and alone, Forgotten in time. This wheel of life— Day to night, No end in sight— Rolling through, Passing me by. Then, I saw you standing there, Dropping the ribbons from your hair, Speaking to the light, And o' I listened. You stoped my dead, Brought me back When you said, "I know just what you are; Lay down your weary head." And o' the hours flew by As we danced all through the night, Whispering 'neath the stars That turn to diamonds. And o' it hit me: That all this senseless wandering, Those roads that weep and wind, It was leading me to you— It was you I was meant to find. You brought me bread and wine, Said, "Leave your worries behind; Let all those troubles wash away When you look into my eyes." I let it go, Let my heart ring out, Knew what it was all about: It was you I've been looking for— I don't need nothing more; My heart is yours. By God, I was sure You're the one, the only one, The one I was meant to find. Now, I'll spend my whole life Searching, turning Every stone I can find, Looking for the one that broke my heart And took my mind. I'll gladly endure this pain forevermore; It's all right, o' my love Even if you don't realize.
No More Wandering
Blair Duluoz
I can't remember nothin', I forgot my own name, I'm all mixed-up in confusion, 'S got me feelin' pretty strange, 'Cause I went to bed last night And woke up on a train; I don't know where I'm goin', But I'm on my way. I was thumbin' though my wallet, Must've hit an earthquake, 'Cause it flew right out the window— Had no money anyway— I asked the fella next to me, "Man, who's drivin' this thing?" He said, "I don't know, But you're in my way." I was standin' in the middle of the aisle... I went lookin' for the captain, Had a few things I'd like to say; I was crawlin' towards the cab Steamin' mad with hell to raise When the wheel it rolled right past me, And I found broke instead of breaks. I said, "I don't know where I'm goin', But—Good God—I'm on my way!" Well, the next thing I knew Someone's shoutin', "Satan, not today!" The conductor ran right by me; I said, "Man, that's the wrong way!" He cried, "You're the captain now, Good luck, I'll put you in my prayers!" I said, "I don't know how to drive;" He said, "I'm sure you'll find a way!" Fire filled up the cabin; Through the smoke, a voice did say, "I was tryna light my cigarette, Looks like I made a mistake;" I said, "O' that's all right, it happens;" They told me, "Gee, man, well thanks— Hey, I don't think we've met; I'm the Devil, what's your name?" That's when I remembered I had forgotten my own name, And said, "It's funny, man, I tell ya, You won't believe the crazy day—" But he shook his watch and ran off, Cryin', "Unholy shit, I'm late! Well, good luck, Mr. Funny, I'm sure we'll meet again someday!" And wouldn't ya know it, He was right. Train ran off the tracks. Woke up, the Devil starin' me right in the face, Said, "Welcome to Hell."
On My Way (to Who Knows Where)
Blair Duluoz
Late at night, Coyote howls, And I'm stuck inside— Down and out. Sit alone, Getting stoned, Maybe write some bullshit On my piano. Another day begun: The morning sun Burns my eyes, Reveals my shadow. So, we begin again, And we pretend That everything is fine. O' everything is fine. As my windows bleed out with light, And my head aches from previous night, And the bed is cold on your side, And my dreams fade as I open my eyes... Bedroom cold: Warmth I cannot hole. So, I check the meter, But all it says is "no." Rush downstairs— Perfume in my hair. Obligations, But I don't seem to care. Another season In the station, As men drift by Like aimless shadows. So, we begin again, And we pretend That everything is fine. O' everything is fine. As regrets rush like tsunami tides— With a bit of whiskey it might subside. Then, take some speed to kickstart my mind, And prepare for another journey into night... Triple knocks— On the fourth it clocks, And faces warp, Foundations rock. Changes come And changes go, But nothing stays Enough to know. Another trash man Prepares news-bin For posthumous Consumption. So, we begin again, And we pretend That everything is fine. O' everything is fine. As I run like jester gone wild For the king and queen and strangers' eyes, While they ask me, "What's the meaning of life?" So, I juggle words and quickly take flight... "First things first..." But, I find those things don't work. Then, I get a story 'Bout my terrors. Silence falls Upon those who were paid off, But one poor soul Decides to cough. Another "lesson" Of what, where, when, The time to talk, And gods to shadow. So, we begin again, And we pretend That everything is fine. O' everything is fine. As my control fades with each passing stride, And I look up at the peak of my confines, The mountain I am unable to climb, Then turn and speak small with a smile... I need a break, But I also need to make Enough money To keep my curtains safe. Forgot my watch, So I can't tell what's what— Might as well be in the Twilight Zone, Getting lost. Another moment Evades my drum, Which seeks to beat In rhythmic shadow. So, we begin again, And we pretend That everything is fine. O' everything is fine. As we perceive and are perceived by, And let all flow into our minds, And get jumbled up in riddles and rhymes, But never stop to wonder why... The shuffle calls For patrons to crawl Down from their towers, Too tired to walk. I find the sign, Wait in line, Then travel backwards, Avoiding other eyes. Another session Of evasion, As headlights shift The million shadows. So, we begin again, And we pretend That everything is fine. O' everything is fine. As the saints go down and begins the night, And I find the truth in crowds and flashing lights, Where I can run from what my heart sympathize, And numb my senses with stale wine... Five p.m.—the sun is nought. So, I go inside, watch the clock. Got a date, but I kinda hate his face, So I tell him, "Sorry, but I ain't gonna make." Another day done: The moon is hung, And I can fall Into my shadow. So, we begin again, And we pretend That everything is fine. O' everything is fine. As my shadow fades into the night, I hope memory will fade in starlight, And my fears and regrets will take flight, Until, with the light of logic, I must face my trials... I stumble home— How? I do not know. But, you're not there, So I let my thoughts roam. I spot the paint That you got for my birthday, Feel it's weight, Then throw it away. Another drunken Revelation To be forgot Upon day's shadow. So, we begin again, And we pretend That everything is fine. O' everything is fine. But, the nightingale's song just reminds, And the mockingjay reiterates my plight, As I relapse into ephemeral rites, Swearing myself to the moon and streetlights... I know it's wrong, But I'm too far gone To reckon with My salvation. What's done is done, What's lost is won, And me deeds are full Of contradiction. Another union Of devotion Among the cult Of snow-moon shadow. So, we begin again, And we pretend That everything is fine. O' everything is fine. As I claim to be a Bodhisattva sprite, Knowing damn well my promise is trite, As I fail to balance left with right, Taking uppers down and downer up to get high. Do anything to avoid the price, And ignore the harsh realities of the time, With a reflection that I don't recognize, As I write bullshit and call it "improvised."
Shadows of the Infernal Day
Blair Duluoz
Please, don't wake me up, Just wish me "good luck," Dreams that do wander. Skies, millions and more, Right wave from my door, Beckon me onward. Though the Sun, she does wish My curls for to kiss, Light for to conquer. Leave Clock's waking whine— We've still got some time, I've nowhere to go... Let me sail your hazy oceans! Moonlight tide so dear to me... Let me soar your great, wide open! Beyond time To find Your eyes— Eternity! Wings, fading like smoke, Sing her siren note, Pull me to harbor, And roses that ring, Petals that bring Ballads of laughter. Here, faintly she twirls, My fear she unwirls, Knows that I want her, Gives herself to me— At least, I believe, Kneel at her alter. Let me hold your ghost-like mem'ries! Playing soft, tired melodies. Let me hear your pulsing heart-breeze! Passing by To find Your eyes— So clear, complete! God lives in my mind. She treats me unkind— Sworn am I to her. Don't tell me these sights Are just trials of the night, Merely for pleasure. Hours melting like ice, Daylight floods my eyes— Sun is my captor. Now, chained here am I Till Day might decide— Wish to get back there. Let me feel your haunting visions! Though like sand you slip from me. Let me stay in this your station! On your tracks Make pacts Relax— Though tied I be! There ain't... There ain't nowhere I'd rather be. There ain't... There ain't nowhere I'd rather be. Don't wake me up, For I've got nowhere to be... There's still time, just let me stay here in her rhymes, Though, dreaming, I know I be... There is still time— My wish is her rite, Washing me under. Please, just let me lie, Sleep is no crime— She lives in my dreams. She lives in my dreams...
She Lives In My Dreams
Blair Duluoz
Lord, I am weary, And my mind's filled with doubt— This land I called home Looks so strange to me now. The willows are weeping, And shivering, torn down, And Daylight is hiding For fear she'll go out. No man meets my eye— Just stares at the ground. The river's stopped running, But none dare ask how. This ragged ole road I'm tumbling down Is rough and hard-travelled— Don't know where I'm bound. Though shadows hang under, And my road is getting dark, Peace on high shines above me, Lighting my path with her guiding star. Though where I'm heading, I don't know, I know that her light Is taking me home. And when the wolves howl And the bitter winds blow, I'll see my light shining Wherever I go. And though I'm uncertain 'Neath the gathering clouds, I trust where she leads me— I'm homeward bound. Shine on! Peace, shine on! Keep your light burning, And I'll follow you home. Shine on your saving light! For those chained by fear In the darkening night. Shine on! Peace, shine on! Shining in mem'ry Of the ones that we've lost. Shine on for all to see! Lead us to the land Where all souls can be free. Shine on! Peace, shine on! Keep your light burning, And I'll follow you home. Shine on your saving light! For those chained by fear In the darkening night. Shine on! Peace, shine on! Shining in mem'ry Of the ones that we've lost. Shine on for all to see! Lead us to the land Where all souls can be free.
Shine On (Peace, Shine On)
Blair Duluoz
I shall not be made to fear The hazy shadows of thund'rin' storms that near, And I shall not be led below To cow'r in cov'rin' 'gainst the beating sea that grows. I shall not resign my fate To the signs of a forthcomin' wake, And I shall not myself to sink In the pallid ghostly shades of possibility. The boughs may break In the ragin' wake, But, my spirit, you shall not break. Should the death stain'd skies Seek my soul to confine, I shall stand starboard and shout, "Well, come and take it!" I shall not go quietly 'Gainst the violent cracklin' crash of striking lightning, And I shall not myself entomb Within the ships grim quarters—no, I shall face my doom. The boughs may break In the ragin' wake, But, my spirit, you shall not break. Should the death stain'd skies Seek my soul to confine, I shall stand starboard and shout, "Well, come and take it!" I shall not forsake the light, Enshroud my poundin' heart as canonballs fly, Nor as my fellow men are made to descend— If I must stand alone, then, well, so be it! The boughs may break In the ragin' wake, But, my spirit, you shall not break. Should the death stain'd skies Seek my soul to confine, I shall stand starboard and shout, "Well, come and take it!" O' howlin' winds, your air I breath, And, ragin' waves, you shake my feet, But your dark skies bear no hold on me: I shall be free!
Ship Against the Storm
Blair Duluoz
The Lawman's off the clock: He's with his friends around the block; They're cracking jokes and throwing darts— Y'know, they've "got a hard job." A woman hiding out, 'Cause her job ain't working out; She gave so much, but not enough— A stranger in her home town. They're marching down the street With their guns down to their feet; They're "only here to have some fun," Got some "friends" they'd "like to meet." A man shot down and killed, A stain where his blood spilled— He was a family man, but not to them: Just another shot of roadkill. And the fathers and mothers, And sons and daughters, Young lovers and artists, And god-fearing workers— They've given their lives Just to have their lives taken On the streets where once They played as children By men in masks that carry Automatic weapons, That pray to your God And kill in His name. Then they'll tell us your race, Your language, and number. They'll tell us your address, Your job, and skin color. They'll tell us you're gone, say, "Isn't it a shame?" And they'll kill you dead, But they won't say your name. The lawman's shift is done, He's off the clock, he's driving home— Just another day, got bills to pay— He prays to God but worships guns. The families gather round A makeshift stone upon the ground: An unarmed man in an unmarked grave In a secret side of town. There are crosses on the doors, But they say one cross means more— They'll take you as you're saying Grace— Crosses broken on the floor. The church is empty now, Save for the man who sold them out: He's reading up on Jesus' word, And he's ripping pages out. And the fathers and mothers, And sons and daughters, Young lovers and artists, And god-fearing workers— They've given their lives Just to have their lives taken On the streets where once They played as children By men in masks that carry Automatic weapons, That pray to your God And kill in His name. Then they'll tell us your race, Your language, and number. They'll tell us your address, Your job, and skin color. They'll tell us you're gone, say, "Isn't it a shame?" And they'll kill you dead, But they won't say your name. So, you who worship hate, Who divine lies on golden plates, Who brandish words of holy men, Yet refuse to show your face, And you that seek glory, To put your name in history— It surely will be jotted down Underneath "atrocity." And you that seek to gain A ticket on Heaven's train— Well, I hope you've got the time to wait: Saint Peter's closed the gates. And while you're outside looking in On the place you call Heaven, You'll see all the souls of the good folks laughing— The joke is on you and y'know it.
Silverio Song
Blair Duluoz
​Talking to some cat— Don't even know his name— He's tellin' me a story, Holding up a picture frame. ​ I was lookin' for a way out When you came walkin' in, And I knew, without a doubt, I'd be seeing you again. ​ We laughed over a drink or five; The crowd was thinning out, And in the picture of your eye, I saw the world turned upside down. ​ Tonight, I've got my hopes up That we'll be gettin' down; You've got me in your clutch— I guess my time is yours now:​ ​​ ​ Let's go find someplace new— Just you an' I—alone We two... Together, (whenever), wherever, For, y'know, Whatever... All I wanna do Is to be alone With you... Anytime and anyplace, We can make do— (O, we can do it wherever...)— I Just wanna spend some time With you... ​​​ ​ Carousing down the street, Trapezing our minds— Just swingin' together, Havin' a good time. ​ We stumble together, Just crashin' through, And, I tell ya, there ain't no one I'd rather Crash into: ​​ ​ Let's go find someplace new— Just you an I, alone We two ​ Together, (whenever), wherever, For, y'know, Whatever... ​ All I wanna do Is to be alone With you... Anytime and anyplace, We can make do— (O, we can do it wherever...)— I Just wanna spend some time With you... ​​ ​ So, take that watch and Throw it away, 'cause the Only face I need is Yours... ​ The sun comes up at the Break of day—until Then, this moment is Ours, (and there's) ​ No one I'd rather Spend my time on... ... ... (and I'll) ​ Gladly, (Glady) bet each and every hour on You... ... (woah...) ​ ... I just wanna be alone with You—I just, I Just— ​​ ​ Let's go find someplace new— Just you an I, alone We two ​ Together, (whenever), wherever, For, y'know, Whatever... ​ All I wanna do Is to be alone With you... Anytime and anyplace, We can make do— (O, we can do it wherever...)— I Just wanna spend some time With you... ​​ ​ Let's go find someplace new— Just you an I, alone We two ​ Together, (whenever), wherever, For, y'know, Whatever... ​ All I wanna do Is to be alone With you... Anytime and anyplace, We can make do— (O, we can do it wherever...)— I Just wanna spend some time With you... ​​ ​ Oh... ... ... ... ​ Oh... ... ... ... ​​ ​ Anytime and anyplace, We can make do—I just wanna spend some Time with you...
Someplace New
Blair Duluoz
It's strange How things work out: One day I'm lying next to you, The next day I'm without... Sure is strange—ain't it, honey? It's strange, What people say: You once told me you're leaving, Now you're begging me to stay. Sure is strange—ain't it, honey? It's kinda funny How love grows cold, How two can love each other, Yet be totally alone. One day you meet the future And the next it's gone. You think you'll die without 'em, But life keeps livin' on. It's strange When people ask, I just tell 'em that like everything Our love has gone and passed. Sure is strange—ain't it, honey? It's kinda funny How love grows cold, How two can love each other, Yet be totally alone. One day you meet the future And the next it's gone. You think you'll die without 'em, But life keeps livin' on. Fare ya well! That's all I've got to say. It was nice to know ya, honey, Maybe we'll meet again someday. See ya later! If that may be the case. But don't come a-crying back to me, I won't have any words to say. It's kinda funny How love grows cold, How two can love each other, Yet be totally alone. One day you meet the future And the next it's gone. You think you'll die without 'em, But life keeps livin' on. I hope you find what you've been looking for, And, for your sake, I hope the price is free. Maybe you'll find someone to love you like before, But it sure ain't gonna be me. It's kinda funny How love grows cold, How two can love each other, Yet be totally alone. One day you meet the future And the next it's gone. You think you'll die without 'em, But life keeps livin' on.
Sure Is Strange (Ain't It, Honey)
Blair Duluoz
It's Christmas season, lights up in the house, But it makes no difference—Can't afford no power. But, I thank God it's Christmas! The winter wind's got no hold on me Even though we've got no electricity. But, oh, thank God it's Christmas! My great-grandma got fired on Christmas Eve From a job that she's had since the 1930s. But, she thanks God it's Christmas! My children's public schooling's as best as one can be; They're learning how to aim, and how to spot commies, And they thank God it's Christmas. I pledge allegiance to the flag And thank the NRA For my god-given right To take a life away, And I thank God it's Christmas! I don't need no health, I don't need money, 'Cause I know my country will take care of me, And, oh, thank God it's Christmas! I don't trust the doc, I don't trust vaccines; My daughter will get sick if God wants her to be, And she thanks God it's Christmas! My banker is like family to me, I love him even though he foreclosed my property, And he thanks God it's Christmas! I'll scream and shout, "My country 'tis of thee!" Even thought they took the vote from Lady Liberty, And, I'll thank God it's Christmas! My friends are freezing with nothing to eat, But they're proud to starve in the land of noble and free, And they thank God it's Christmas! My crops are dying out, can't afford no gasoline; They've routed all my water to the presidential suite. He's goddamn lucky it's Christmas. Sometimes life can be so hard, all you wanna do is weep, Could almost go insane from the pain and misery. But, I thank God it's Christmas! Desperation, destitution—God, I love the Constitution! Read it every time my baby weeps! Deprived, distressed, and disadvantaged, Denied, defiled, doomed, and damaged— Thank the first amendment I am free! Damned, indebted, desolated, Left for dead, and desecrated— Read the second one, and say, "Whoopi!" To my native land, I raise up my right hand, My right to bear and set the spirit free. Loaded up and ready, never held nothing so steady; Close your eyes and hope to God you will not see The things we're forced to do In our country dear and true As you hear the shots ring out on Christmas eve. Fear and desperation can drive any man insane, But stranger things, they happen everyday...
Thank God, It's Christmas
Blair Duluoz
Somethin' funny's goin' down; There's a-danger comin' 'round; There's a shadow on the trail, A trail of smoke. He's a-comin' to your town; Keep your head up, man—look out! 'Cause he's huntin' like a hound For tobacco. He's a bandit, A cigar bandit, Smoke-stealin' Tobacco thief. He don't want no cigarette, No hookah, pipe, no snuff or dip, So keep your stumps close to your chest— You might be next! If he gets you in his grip, You are surely done for it; Kiss goodbye to your smoke sticks, Your sweet pyros. He's a bandit, A cigar bandit, Smoke-stealin' Tobacco thief. He don't want no cigarette, No hookah, pipe, no snuff or dip, So keep your stumps close to your chest— You might be next! Pray that you may never meet This hot-headed, smoke-stealin' thief, And, if you do, hope to God That he's feelin' forgivin'. There's no tellin' who will be next— Could be you, me, he, she, them, or it Taken out by this fiend With a taste for nicotine. He's a bandit, A cigar bandit, Smoke-stealin' Tobacco thief. He don't want no cigarette, No hookah, pipe, no snuff or dip, So keep your stumps close to your chest— You might be next!
The Cigar Bandit
Blair Duluoz
The storm's a-comin'; There's shadows on your tail; There's fire cross the sky As the wind begins to wail; The air is hot, It's gettin' harder to breathe; You can run, you can run— We all go down eventually. You played the game— O' but at what price? Was it worth it? all those jewels And sleepless nights; You placed your bet, Shook hands, said, "It's a deal." You can hide, you can hide— We all get found eventually. So, watcha gonna do When it's time to pay your dues? I bet that deal don't seem so funny anymore. The Devil's got your debt, And he's comin' to collect; You better hope he don't got nothin' worse in store. You threw down the dice, Now you're starin' at snake eyes— Good luck! he's gonna take you for all you're good for. 'Cause you tried to cheat a man That's got your fate right in his hand, Now it's do or don't do anything no more. The night is falling, Breaking down around you; The ground is cracking— Watch out! or you'll fall through; You signed your name, Should've checked the fine print— If something's too good to be true, Well, it probably is. So, watcha gonna do When it's time to pay your dues? I bet that deal don't seem so funny anymore. The Devil's got your debt, And he's comin' to collect; You better hope he don't got nothin' worse in store. You threw down the dice, Now you're starin' at snake eyes— Good luck! he's gonna take you for all you're good for. 'Cause you tried to cheat a man That's got your fate right in his hand, Now it's do or don't do anything no more. You held that key, Shinin' in your hand; Got shook up And dropped it down the drain; All the glory, All the gold and words of praise— Look where it's got ya: Drove ya right into the grave. So, watcha gonna do When it's time to pay your dues? I bet that deal don't seem so funny anymore. The Devil's got your debt, And he's comin' to collect; You better hope he don't got nothin' worse in store. You threw down the dice, Now you're starin' at snake eyes— Good luck! he's gonna take you for all you're good for. 'Cause you tried to cheat a man That's got your fate right in his hand, Now it's do or don't do anything no more.
The Devil Gets His Due
Blair Duluoz
In this world, an honest man, Never have I met; They'll cheat you, and they'll rob you, Put a price upon your head. They'll lead you to strange lands, Claim there's treasures for to find, Then leave you stranded in some desert With your life upon the line. They say they'll stick right by you Through thick and all through thin, And leave you broke and naked When the storm comes rolling in. They'll tie your hands behind your back And use you like a bank, And, when the tide gets rough, They'll leave you hanging off the plank. The dull, the proud, the wicked, Politicians preaching rhymes, The good-for-nothing con-artists That kill an honest mind, They'll force you down to prayer, Shut your eyes so you can't see The mockery they're making Of so-called divinity. Every claim of virtue come from Prides revengeful mouth: The viper's vicious venom that bites And takes you out. These wretched wrecks of pale repose That lull you down to sleep, And leave you waking just to fine There's none other there to meet. The dull, the proud, the wicked, Politicians preaching rhymes, The good-for-nothing con-artists That kill an honest mind, They'll force you down to prayer, Shut your eyes so you can't see The mockery they're making Of so-called divinity. Each and every evil eye That on me once alighted, And every dead man's hand that's torn The flesh from my life, and All of you who've tried in vain To make a pawn of me, A painful future thee awaits In scorchèd misery. The dull, the proud, the wicked, Politicians preaching rhymes, The good-for-nothing con-artists That kill an honest mind, They'll force you down to prayer, Shut your eyes so you can't see The mockery they're making Of so-called divinity.
The Dull, the Proud, the Wicked
Blair Duluoz
Ain't it kinda funny How we do things in this country? I was five years old When I held my first gun. My father told me, "Aim it right, And pull that trigger tight— You never know when you'll get the call To take another man's life; Now, be a good soldier." I couldn't wait for the day That I'd be made to ship away To some foreign land, My country to defend. They said, "You'll be a hero, Praised everywhere you go; The whole world round will give a bow To their saving son; Now, be a good soldier." And when I heard the good news, I grabbed my pack, laced up my boots, And marched in time To the sound of war drums. They said, "You'll fight for freedom; Now, put your helmet on; Keep that collar 'round your neck, So, if you die, we'll know whose side y'were on; Now, be a good solder." They told me there was good and bad, And, to give my life, I should be glad, To die like a martyr At barely eighteen. I never asked questions, I trusted all their lessons, I did my very best To do things right, And be a good solder. I followed every order And command right to a tee; I put bullet holes in anyone They called the enemy. I'll never forget the sound, The hellish screams as bombs dropped down, And that tiny shoe I found in the rubble. I said, "Cap I think there's something wrong; Those were civilians we fired upon; I found this—look—now, it belonged To a child of barely three. I thought we were fighting, killing—dying For liberty and all; Spent my whole life believing At my hands evil would fall. But, with every eye that cowered in fear, Good and bad became unclear, And I'm no longer sure Which side I'm on. The day that I'll never forget: When I held my best friend's bleeding head, And cried, "Why, why? Why?— Give me a goddamn answer! Give me one good reason! Somebody tell me why, why, why? What are we fighting for? 'Cause I ain't so sure anymore... I'd like to know... I'd like to know... I'd like to know... Just what the hell I'm supposed to die for. No, you won't make a martyr out of me— Get someone else to do your bidding; No, you won't make a hero out of me— I'm not a cog in your war machine. I am not your soldier.
The Good Soldier
Blair Duluoz
Come down from your walls, Why must you climb to where none can reach you? The only danger here is the chandelier that you're shaking. Kingdoms crumble and fall; I must confess that I've helped out with a few— Yet still I stand here on the stones of our own placing. The crystal ringmen to their bells do climb; Come down to me before our parting chime. Too slow and too late: She left him stranded to the burgeoning sunrise; They went their separate ways to face their days alone. The cards gone astray With Destiny's state, cast off to the flies After Fate got in the way, broke her staff, and stole her throne. I swear somewhere far-off I met her eyes, Mistook her for a bum and passed her by... Hours melt into days Silently, secretly dry out to years— His court used to beg him descend and walk among them. But stuck in his ways, Wed, for better or worse, to his fear, He clings to his tow'r in decay, all weather-beaten. Can't help but wonder what he's up to now, But, Lord, I hope I never do find out. Knocked out, blind, by snow, Burnt red and froze, brought back, and my eyes—good God! I saw you there and forgot what I was looking for. Let the winds beat and blow, Slice me limb from limb into nothing—I care not! Let Winter know she ain't got nothing on me no more. Two dancers tiptoe over hidden bones While secrets sneak up through forgotten roads...
The Run Around
Blair Duluoz
She paints landscapes Of far off places As I pretend to draw fate, And she sings softly About the glory Of times long before today. But, I don't understand The language she commands, So I act like the man She believes I am, While down on the streets below, Her melody falls gently like snow. He writes down my name And pretends to create Verse like the greats, And he speaks of futures Where there are no winner And all that's not lost is gained. But, I don't understand, The prospects he has planned, So I say his hopes are grand As silence falls once again, While down on the streets below, Preachers shout what I already know. I can't find the words to say To change your world and change your ways, But hereafter, when our hearts have gone astray, Think of me sometime when you get down to pray. She looks at the stars And asks me if I Know how far they are. But I don't know, And I tell her so, And she sighs, "Well, isn't life bizarre?" But I don't understand The answers she demands, So I speak like the man She believes I am. While the clouds up above undergo Transformations I can't control. He plays the guitar And sings of the way That he thinks things are. While I sit lonely And wonder why so many Men are afraid of the dark. But I don't understand The music he disbands, So I tell him it sounds grand As darkness falls once again. While the clouds up above undergo Changes I saw long ago. I can't find the words to say To change your world and change your ways, But hereafter, when our hearts have gone astray, Think of me sometime when you get down to pray. I might not have the answers To the questions that you ask, And I might not understand Your heart so vast. But if there's one thing I'm sure of, When all is done and passed, I won't regret my time with you Even if it's not meant to last. I can't find the words to say To change your world and change your ways, But hereafter, when our hearts have gone astray, Think of me sometime when you get down to pray. She opens my heart And plays on its strings Like I were a harp. And I lie and tell her We'll last forever, Never to part. But I know this will end As she takes my hand And leads me into strange lands Of which I don't understand. And outside the moon glows As dreams wander below. He looks at my art And tells me that I'm Better than Renoir. Then he goes off to some Far off dungeon And leaves my door ajar. But I know this will end As I watch him drive off again And stare at the horizon And wonder where it begins. And outside the moon glows As dreams wander below. I can't find the words to say To change your world and change your ways, But hereafter, when our hearts have gone astray, Think of me sometime when you get down to pray.
Think of Me Sometime
Blair Duluoz
You think you're sly Telling Lies That you're not in for something deeper, That I don't know why Dimming lights Ask what songs you'd like to hear. "It's only a few minutes long, Harmonies that cannot go wrong, Words of love—" "But it's only a song." While you gaze at me, and I at the wall. The distant road drones on delirious. Passing reflections so serious. For reasons that are all too mysterious. You figure to know, Speaking slow, Just where my thoughts go disappear. So I let words flow, Reaching low, Must air a smoke to chandelier. A couple of breaths taste like hours, Carefully watch the ash shower, Boots clicking down from your tower, Match time if you'd only the power. The night drags on delirious, As, cliff-side, the stars glare so serious. The stillness takes over, imperious, But her gaze it is all too mysterious. You grasp to feel Something real But it's all so strange to ya now. As you beg to kneel, Kiss the seal And send it off to me somehow. The silence, it drowns out the cries So buried, they burn through your mind. She's calling, but you don't realize It was never really your name in those lines. The sounds: all-surrounding, delirious. You can't tell, but you think that it's serious, As commands take the stand so imperious, Make all you thought true superstitious, Leave all answers unknown and mysterious. You seek to guess, To undress, And find what tongues try to conceal. As eyes confess Nothing less— Who knows what you might reveal? As blessings rain down from your mind, Read every position divine, That each image must be a sign: There's more, so much more there to find. But, your prayers fall on deaf ears delirious, Merely hand drifting, unheard, unserious. New gods—undeserving, imperious— Send chills up your spine, superstitious. Paranoid tears tearing through us. But, the end still remains so mysterious. Your constant whine— Cut the line! There's nothing left here to discuss. And you fail to confine, To twist the vines Of what is now and what once was. But, the dark night of dreams just reminds This only exists in your mind, 'Cause you wake, shivering, only to find The future has left you behind. And the pain leaves you aching delirious. I didn't know your heart was so serious. Your generals that beat you—imperious— Shouting out that your too superstitious. But, faint, ghostly forms wander through us, As Memory's corpse decomposes... Ah, how time hides neath veils so mysterious!
Time Remains Unrecognized
Blair Duluoz
All that's believed is believed to be true, And I want to believe that your vows aren't misconstrued. And all that's desired is all that we need, But where you are tonight, I'll just leave to fantasy. I'm tryna hold on, 'cause they all tell me to "wait, For the present shadows pass with the dawning of each day." But, tomorrow never comes— It all becomes today. And here and now I'm waiting For you to head my way. I'll soon be going Till time makes me stay, 'Cause tomorrow doesn't matter, And the present's history. And when the sun comes up, I'll pack my bags, And follow the first road that claims to be the last. And if along the way, our eyes happen to meet, Just keep on going and don't wait up for me. 'Cause, tomorrow never comes— It all becomes today. And here and now I'm waiting For you to head my way. I'll soon be going Till time makes me stay, 'Cause tomorrow doesn't matter, And the present's history. And when I reach wherever my journey's meant to end, Don't try to find me—you've got your own paths to mend. And don't listen to those that tell you to "wait," 'Cause time is one thing you can't afford to waste. For tomorrow never comes— It all becomes today. And here and now I'm waiting For you to head my way. I'll soon be going Till time makes me stay, 'Cause tomorrow doesn't matter, And the present's history. But, tomorrow never comes— It all becomes today. And here and now I'm waiting For you to head my way. I'll soon be going Till time makes me stay, 'Cause tomorrow doesn't matter, And you and I are history.
Tomorrow
Blair Duluoz
The night is dry and cracking Like thrown stones return to dust; My tears' the only waters flown, Leaving a trail of rust. Alone I weep and wander, A-thirsting for my home, But the liquid sands wash o'er each step, And I know not from where I come or go. O' deserted delirium— Would that the stars could blind! But, I am far, and they care not Whether I should live or die. My mouth is sour and silent; I've no tongue to voice my painl O' I'd cry in joy if only I could someday cry again! O' Western Wind when will thou blow The small rain down can rain? Christ, if my love were in my arms, And I in my bed again! How nature, harsh, torments me With beauty bleak and cold; I long for something—anything; Show yourself, and I'll behold. There is no sun can rise to out- Shine my desperate trench; Shadows hold as much as visions: Falsehoods full of emptiness. O' Western Wind when will thou blow The small rain down can rain? Christ, if my love were in my arms, And I in my bed again! O' Western Wind when will thou blow The small rain down can rain? Christ, if my love were in my arms, And I in my bed again!
Western Wind
Blair Duluoz
Sitting in the shade, Mead and olive-crowned pate. Immortality. Getting late... Theme eats away As I read from Blake, And you asked if I believed We were victims of fate. Well, I once saw a magician Breathe fire, and envisioned That love was a mirror With distorted reflection. So, to answer your question, We're not predestined, We're just lucky bastards In unknown oblivion. What happens happens And what's done is done, What's lost is lost And life lives on. As we stellify our hearts And worship our art, And fail to realize Our love is a farce. One day we'll look back On our follies and laugh, And this union will seem An obvious lapse. We'll vaguely pretend Things don't have to end, And I'll smile and nod Like I understand. While you speak in tongues, And I pluck false wisdoms From the bellfry of being And the shrine of Buddah. What happens happens And what's done is done, What's lost is lost And life lives on. Then to London we go In search of truths unknown— Our Season in Hell Like Verlaine and Rimbaud. And when the weather changes, We'll go our own ways, and Act like strangers When we pass the next day. And you'll fulfill your dreams Of washing machines, So you can purify Your dirty laundry. And I'll make amends, Then lose myself again The moment I mistake My enemies for friends. What happens happens And what's done is done, What's lost is lost And life lives on. And I'll rewrite Sejanus In modernized English, And cast Shakespeare as the lead To get booed off the stages. And you'll claim to be holy Like divine guacamole And say I don't get The words you say fully. Maybe I'm damned, Or maybe you stand Waving God like a flag On stolen lands. Where once we drew blood To sanctify our love Under the guise of youth And madcap freedom. What happens happens And what's done is done, What's lost is lost And life lives on. What happens happens And what's done is done, What's lost is lost And what's here is gone.
What Happens Happens
Blair Duluoz
Hark! Now everything is still... There's nothing moving in the Moonlit breeze that seeks to chill. Hark! Now everything is quiet... While your eyes glow like mad fire And freeze me there so silent. Hark! But it's all in vain... I'm looking right at ya, But in my head there plays a different name! Hark! Somewhere far-off the shattered Symphony of singing glass cries out— Ah, what does it even matter... Oh... And another day Will roll past like the last Undefined, undermined waste of time. Oh... And, once again, the night, my friend Will take back the light Leaving merely shadows Of what once was... Hark! Aw, how the night it thrills, Leaving two to tremble in false hope Almost believe until— Hark! I thought I heard her call my name... Echo through this chamber Where another's silhouette is lain. Oh... And another day Will roll past like the last Undefined, undermined waste of time. Oh... And, once again, the night, my friend Will take back the light Leaving merely shadows Of what once was... Hark! But it's all in vain... I'm looking right at ya, But in my head there plays a different name! Hark! Somewhere far-off the shattered Symphony of singin' glass cries out— Ah, what does it matter! Oh... And another day Will roll past like the last Undefined, undermined waste of time. Oh... And, once again, the night, my friend Will take back the light Leaving merely shadows Of what once was... Oh... And another day Will roll past like the last Undefined, undermined waste of time. Oh... And, once again, the night, my friend Will take back the light Leaving merely shadows Of what once was...
What's Left
Blair Duluoz
I just watchéd the sun rising over The green fields the harvest once bore, But the horizon it's cresting, The sun's somehow setting— I turned away once, But never will more. My fields they were green, gave many a thing Back when upon them the rain used to fall. I took but one resting, Now my crops are all wilting— I turned away once, But never will more. For only one second I shifted my glance and Came back to find A world I don't know. It was only a second, Just one simple moment— O' when did the time Become so short? I was reading the lines on your face, dear, Last night when we laid down to bed, But I was awoken To find my heart broken— I turned away once, But never will more. Your words are the same, your book is not changed, But the author, I do not know. Now, your pages are closin' And my tears are a-chokin'— I turned away once, But never will more. For only one second I shifted my glance and Came back to find A world I don't know. It was only a second, Just one simple moment— O' when did the time Become so short? They say that it "moves fast: There's nothing can last," But I've also been told that it's slow. I once wished it'd creep by, Give you and I more time, But now move swiftly and quickly I hope. I've planted the seeds for next springing, Lord knows I wish for the best, But the shadows hand under, I'm hearing the thunder— I turned away once, But never will more. I just watchéd the sun falling over The green fields that never could keep, And I can't help but wonder If you are out yonder— I turned away once, To find you no more... For only one second I shifted my glance and Came back to find A world I don't know. It was only a second, Just one simple moment— O' when did the time Become so short?
When Did the Time Become So Short?
Blair Duluoz
A man: shot-down, deserted— Didn't even know his name. The word's a-gonna get out soon: Better find someone to blame. The air is thick with questions, The papers are in flames, The target's burning for your back: Better find someone to blame. Your house o' cards is shakin' now As earthquakes wake and war drums pound. The graveyard's achin': dead men shout, "There's evil in this place!" Baptized in blood, your hollow crown Cracks open on this broken ground. Your tongue is tied, your hands are bound To kill or die in shame. The righteous are a-restless To hang evil in God's name. There be devils in this town: Better find someone to blame. Gunpowder shouts are whirlin' near, The sand, it burns with haste. Their vulture's closin' in on you: Better find someone to blame. Your house o' cards is shakin' now As earthquakes wake and war drums pound. The graveyard's achin': dead men shout, "There's evil in this place!" Baptized in blood, your hollow crown Cracks open on this broken ground. Your tongue is tied, your hands are bound To kill or die in shame. The smoke o' fear is chokin', Desperation suffocates. Executioner's starvin' for your neck: Better find someone to blame. Their search-lights aren't aimed for truth, They're just lookin' for a name— You cry, "I know who did it!" Now, who ya gonna blame? Your house o' cards is shakin' now As earthquakes wake and war drums pound. The graveyard's achin': dead men shout, "There's evil in this place!" Baptized in blood, your hollow crown Cracks open on this broken ground. Your tongue is tied, your hands are bound To kill or die in shame. Your blood-stained hands point to condemn: "It's him!" your lies exclaim. Poor stranger thrown in hatred's wake. Well, you found someone to blame. His cries drowned out in riot's flood Can't wash away your shame. Your rope is tied around his neck: The man you chose to blame. Your house o' cards is shakin' now As earthquakes wake and war drums pound. The graveyard's achin': dead men shout, "There's evil in this place!" Baptized in blood, your hollow crown Cracks open on this broken ground. Your tongue is tied, your hands are bound To kill or die in shame. A man: cut-down, deserted— Didn't even know his name. You didn't mean to do it, But you did it all the same. You didn't mean to do it, But you did it all the same...
Who Ya Gonna Blame?
Blair Duluoz
bottom of page