A question made public…

I do not have the patience for reading books and, hence, book groups are out for me. I wish it was otherwise. Music, on the other hand, is an enduring joy. But not any music. The music that appeals, for me, is that that has meaning to me. It is interesting how that is era dependent.

As a youth in the ’70s, it was a glorious time for music and those musicians who have survived have seen their music appreciated by the current youth. I have been amazed by my sons’ libraries. Full of content that I liked and new variations of a similar ilk.

Missing seems to be the despair of much rap. replaced interestingly by the hope held out by past (and current) idealists or activists with a humanitarian soul.

I recall making one son read the poetry of Anne Sexton before introducing Mercy Street to him and then opening up the full works of Peter Gabriel.

So here is my question. What do you think of a music group for youth? My idea is that it would be started by studying some lyrics and having a discussion to learn what young people see in the words before introducing the music and then talking some more. Quite a few songs spring to mind. There would also be an opportunity to listen to the same song from different artists to see what effect the artist had on opinion. From that start, the individuals in the group would select their own music for discussion in the future. There would be no work done in between meetings apart from by the presenter(s). It would be merely engagement with lyrics and music at the meeting.

I think there is a richness in the expression of many artists as evidenced by the endurance of their work. For me too, a comfort that there are others who think as do I on issues. With many current songs’ lyrics inaudible, or signaling despair, or ‘Hollywood Love’, I do wonder if this is a good idea – rough though it is at present. It could be very enjoyable for young people and good ‘therapy’ at times.

Opinions keenly sought. Thank you!