The connection between poetry, place, and time is a theme that resonates deeply in both literature and music. This particular piece pays tribute to the poets who enhance our digital pages with their craft, especially those whose works often reflect the heartbeat of New York City. Poets like Charles Pierre and George Held regularly draw on the vibrant energy of the city, infusing their verses with the essence of urban life.
Pierre and Held have both contributed poems set in the early spring, when crocuses push through the snow and the city parks become a haven for nocturnal inspiration. Yet, despite the arrival of spring, there’s a personal refrain here, as I wait for the fierce nor’easters to pass, taking their chill winds and snowflakes with them, before fully embracing the warmth of new beginnings.
As I present their work on Blogfinger, I always try to intertwine the realities of life, setting the stage for their poetic creations. Poetry, after all, is not just about words but the moments they capture, the emotions they evoke, and the places they take us.
The song below, sung by the five-time Grammy nominee Karrin Allyson, comes from her album Collage. It was written by jazz bassist and songwriter Jay Leonhart, who is likely the bassist on this recording. Leonhart is well-known for his distinctive blend of humor and musicality, often performing live while accompanying himself on the upright bass. Having had the pleasure of hearing Jay perform on several occasions, I can attest to the charm and wit he brings to his original songs. He’s played alongside legends such as Frank Sinatra, Gerry Mulligan, Marian McPartland, and Tony Bennett, further cementing his place in jazz history.
The song, titled “Robert Frost,” is a delightful and fitting tribute to the poet. Its rhythm and lyrics evoke the spirit of Frost’s contemplative nature, and I believe our readers, especially those who are passionate about poetry, will appreciate its charm. It’s a wonderful piece that beautifully ties together the worlds of jazz, poetry, and the unique atmosphere of New York.
As we wait for the last of the winter winds to leave New Jersey behind, this song offers a lovely bridge between the creative forces of poetry and music, bringing us closer to the rhythm of both the season and the city that never sleeps.
