Tonight I went to hear Archie Fisher, a British singer-songwriter, at the Cuckoo’s Nest Folk Club in London. Here’s what I know:
1. It’s important to get there early.
1a. I got there at the last minute.
2. It’s important to sit near the front.
2a. I sat in the back row, virtually the only seat left.
3. It’s important to see the performer.
3a. I could see the back of Archie’s head.
4. It’s important to hear every word.
4a. I couldn’t understand a lot of the lyrics.
5. It’s important to remember the words and Archie’s comments that I loved.
5a. I’m sitting here not remembering any of them.
***
I loved the concert. Archie’s spirit filled the room. We laughed, again and again. Occasionally I was close to tears.
I watched the people in front of me. A man’s hand over his wife’s shoulder. A young fellow singing along.
I bugged a woman in the next row and to the right. “Would you please move? You’re blocking the wall.” She chuckled.
***
A standing ovation
Smiles all around
All is well