Celebrate Each Day with a Song ~ Flora’s Secret

Enya is a remarkable artist. The overwhelming theme behind each of her songs are the elements of earth, air, fire and water. Her haunting, at times ethereal voice, conveys the feelings of joy, sadness, hope and solace found in every heart. The songwriting team of Enya, Nicky and Roma Ryan create a wash of color and sound with each song.

All at once, the melodies and prose connect us to spirit. Our senses, especially the elusive sixth sense, are alerted, touched by her voice and her intention. The tactile world of root and rock. The fragrance of rivers and moss. The sight of poppies in bloom and wheat swaying under the summers breeze are in the musical tones and notes. The memory of Pomona, Selene and Nike are called forth to join in Enya’s songs.

The fey, celebrated and prolific artist from Donegal Ireland gives a song to the flow of sunlight upon flowers and moonlight upon lovers. “Flora’s Secret”, is a charming love song to the earth and all that makes life glorious. The waltz time measure lifts the spirits and remind us how lovely a moment can be.

“Flora’s Secret” is on the CD: A Day withour Rain, published by Warner Music in 2000.

“Flora’s Secret” by Enya

Lovers in the long grass
Look above them
Only they can see
Where the clouds are going
Only to discover
Dust and sunlight
Ever make the sky so blue

Afternoon is hazy
River flowing
All around the sounds
Moving closer to them
Telling them the story
Told by Flora
Dreams they never knew

Silver willows
Tears from Persia
Those who come
From a far-off island
Winter Chanterelle lies
Under cover
Glory-of-the-sun in blue

Some they know as passion
Some as freedom
Some they know as love
And the way it leaves them
Summer snowflake
For a season
When the sky above is blue
When the sky above is blue

Lying in the long grass
Close beside her
Giving her the name
Of the one the moon loves
This will be the day she
Will remember
When she knew his heart was
Loving in the long grass
Close beside her
Whispering of love
And the way it leaves them
Lying in the long grass
In the sunlight
They believe it’s true love
And from all around them
Flora’s secret
Telling them of love
And the way it breathes, and
Looking up from eyes of
Amaranthine …
They can see the sky is blue
Knowing that their love is true
Dreams they never knew
And the sky above is blue

Celebrate Each Day with a Song ~”Rain”

Today would have been John Lennon’s 77th birthday. Growing up in the 1960s, the names John, Paul, George, and Ringo were often spoken in the household. The Beatles were innovative and spectacular as artists. How many bar bands go on to become trendsetters, influencing musicians for generations. John Lennon was greatly admired for his charm and sharp intelligence. He could be direct and often surprised critics with his candid, insightful words in songs, and interviews.

The majority of Lennon’s musical career reveals a man of keen sensitivity to his soul. He often showed us self-confidence, pride and self-doubt. Remarkable that he could thrive as an artist with the pressure to perform and be always a little better than before.  I don’t think modern audiences understand how popular The Beatles were. Their strong work ethic and determination to be the best are a few reasons for their success.

Listening to the works of Lennon and McCartney today, it is clear which artist was the majority writer on each song. “Rain” is a Lennon composition and perfect for a damp day in southern New England.

Thank you John for putting your heart into everything you did. An artist, writer, actor, musician, poet, singer, peace activist and songwriter.

Happy Birthday to an outstanding artist. Miss you still John.

From the B side of “Paperback Writer”, released on a 45 rpm in May 1966

https://youtu.be/_5UlGP6cPqI

If the rain comes they run and hide their heads
They might as well be dead
If the rain comes, if the rain comes

When the sun shines they slip into the shade
(when the sun shines down)
And sip their lemonade
(when the sun shines down)
When the sun shines, when the sun shines

Rain, I don’t mind
Shine, the weather’s fine

I can show you that when it starts to rain
(when the rain comes down)
Everything’s the same
(when the rain comes down)
I can show you, I can show you

Rain, I don’t mind
Shine, the weather’s fine

Can you hear me, that when it rains and shines
(when it rains and shines)
It’s just a state of mind?
(when it rains and shines)
Can you hear me, can you hear me?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Sailing Down This Golden River” ~Arlo Guthrie Classic

The digital age allows for bits and pieces of things remembered to take form. A fond memory from days gone by was brought together with a search on You Tube.

Arlo Guthrie+Muppets Show+I was not far from home.

“This Golden River” by Pete Seeger and performed by Arlo Guthrie is a treasured moment in song. Guthrie’s home base is in the Berkshires of Massachusetts. He is the son of American folk singer and songwriter Woody Guthrie. Arlo continues his support of live acoustic folk music presenting the Guthrie Center Troubadour Series, at the Old Trinity Church in Great Barrington, MA. He is an accomplished singer, songwriter, storyteller and performer with commercial and critical success.

When I watch this video, it feels as if I have connected with an old friend. Arlo’s presence brings comfort and joy. The lyrics have classic Seeger clarity and attention to that which is all around us. He often gave ordinary activities and things a voice. The melody, vocals and instrumentation make this song beautiful.

This Golden River

Words and music by Pete Seeger

Sailing down my golden river
Sun and water all my own
Yet I was never alone

Sun and water, old life givers
I’ll have them where ere I roam
And I was not far from home

Sunlight glancing on the water
Life and death are all my own
Yet I was never alone

Life for all my sons and daughters
Golden sparkles in the foam
And I was not far from home

Sailing down this winding highway
Travelers from near and far
And I was never alone

Exploring all the little byways
Sighting all the distant stars
And I was not far from home

Sailing down my golden river
Sun and water all my own
Yet I was never alone

Sun and water, old life givers
I’ll have them where ere I roam
And I was not far from home
Yet I was never alone
And I was not far from home