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Michael Longley's poem about Bix

02 Feb 09 - 06:58 PM (#2555679)
Subject: Michael Longley's poem about Bix
From: Big Al Whittle

I have just read about the Irsih poet, michael Longley's poem about Bix Beiderbecke and I am very intrigued. I've been a great fan of Bix's music for years. But I've only just heard ofg this. Could someone PM the words.

I am not familiar with his Longley's work but I see he is highly rated by many of the great and good.

If no one has it to hand - do you know in which collection this poem can be found?

best wishes

Al


02 Feb 09 - 07:31 PM (#2555707)
Subject: RE: Michael Longley's poem about Bix
From: Mick Pearce (MCP)

If this is all of it, it's here: To Bix Beiderbecke.

Mick

Posted by Joe Offer from an archive of the link above. Joe Offer, 18 Oct 2022

TO BIX BEIDERBECKE

In hotel rooms, in digs you went to school.
These dead were voices from the floor below
Who filled like an empty room your skull,

Who shared your perpetual one night stand
- The havoc there, and the manoeuvrings! -
Each coloured hero with his instrument.

You were bound with one original theme
To compose in your head your terminus,
Or to improvise with the best of them

That parabola from blues to barrelhouse.

MICHAEL LONGLEY


03 Feb 09 - 05:41 AM (#2555949)
Subject: RE: Michael Longley's poem about Bix
From: Big Al Whittle

Thankyou exceedingly Mick - discuss anyone?