It’s a short list, a leaning.

Usually when I’m waking

After a string of busy days.

Easy access of songs

and troubadours.

Some grainy images,

many sequins, tassels,

bell bottoms, broad rimmed

hats, and sculpted hair.

A tuxedo.  

Live performances

rue, then lift my soul.

YouTube has my history

like skipping vinyl on

the turntable.

*

Shirley Bassy’s ’74

Goldfinger performance.

Willie Nelson’s ‘97 Funny,

How Time Slips Away.

Karen Carpenter’s Superstar.

Glenn Campbell’s Wichita.

Elton’s Rocket Man.

Pavarotti often finishes

me off all goose pimply.

Nessun Dorma with subtitles.

*

“None shall sleep,

None shall sleep!

Even you, oh Princess,

In your cold room,

Watch the stars,

That tremble with love

And with hope.

*

But my secret is hidden within me,

My name no one shall know,

No… no…

On your mouth, I will tell it,

When the light shines.

*

And my kiss will dissolve

The silence that makes you mine!

*(No one will know his name

And we must, alas, die.)

*

Vanish, o night!

Set, stars! Set, stars!

At dawn, I will win!

I will win!

I will win!”