Born and Raised

Standard

The summer this album was released my eldest son was doing an internship with Mick Management in Brooklyn, NY.  Mick was managing the release and tour for John and it was a great opportunity for the boy to be around and learn some of the ropes.  My children, especially the boys,  have been responsible for keeping me somewhat updated with what is going on in the music world over the past 10-15 years.  They grew up on Parliament, Earth Wind and Fire, Old school R&B, Merle Haggard, and George Jones.  I taught them the three or four chords I knew on the guitar and they both passed me up in about a week.  They have become some of the most exceptional humans I will ever know.  Courageous, creative souls who are already on their way.  They are twenty years ahead of where I was at their age.  I am so grateful for that.

So, they had introduced me to John Mayer years ago when he was in his twenties.  I have always appreciated his poet’s sensibilities.  Intelligent, creative, with some Soul.  What I noticed about this release was that Mr. Mayer had matured.  The themes were not about High School or College or bodies being wonderlands, and being lost in the angst of young adulthood. The themes were deeper and multilayered.  He added a little country to the mix and it works exquisitely.  I enjoy the whole album but this is one song that elicits emotion from me every time I hear it.

“Walt Grace’s Submarine Test.”  It at first glance is a rather hokie song but from the first time I heard it, I was moved by it.   The themes of solitude and personal responsibility.  “Cause when you’re done with this world, the next is up to you . . .”  I don’t think we will discover who we are around other people.  The desert and the grief of loneliness seems to be pathway that leads to the “next world.”  Enjoy and be encouraged.  Though the way may seem dark and dry and without direction from the Outside, that which lies within will guide.  Living between the paradox may provide pathways never imagined.  Be Groovy!

10 thoughts on “Born and Raised”

  2. You know what I love about visiting with you? I get a full course meal! You give us something sustainable, and often something new, not just to ponder, but a place in which to come and play. And the glimpses of you are glorious.

    A thought: I love how you feel about you family, and your sons sound like truly amazing young men. I must add this however, for them to become the most extraordinary human beings to you, accept that your most extraordinary self was the foundation upon which they stood, grew, and were nourished by someone I’m honored to have the pleasure of meeting, and with whom I’m enjoying a journey I’ve waited to continue taking during a rather extensive drought before the last two years. (no back talk from you Sir).

  3. “Living between the paradox may provide pathways never imagined. ”
    So true PG…beautifully put! What a beautiful and profound song. I haven’t heard this before either. The art work is stunning. I absolutely love it. And the message is so important. Thank you so much for sharing this.

Comments are closed.