The Organ Grinder's Monkey
64
By Larry L. Conners
Evening bloomed quickly, with dark arms thickly
holding me hostage to my chasing thoughts...
.
Treasures long hidden, rise unbidden
to speak of forgotten aughts and naughts...
The Organ Grinder's monkey flits, fusses, and fumes...reaching out with his tiny paw to snatch that penny, quarter, or dime
Oh waning moon...tell me your secrets, your love of the sun, your fear of the long, dark night...
Will I grasp that quarter, so firmly held..? Or shamble off without a fight..?
Fleeting pleasures, hidden treasures, all so sweetly kept...
Burning passions, passing fashions, a silent scream is wept...
The Organ Grinder's monkey flits, fusses, and fumes...reaching out his tiny paw to snatch that penny, quarter. or dime...
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Every night before sunset, people go to Clearwater Beach, FL to Pier 60 to watch the sun go down. This poem reminds me of Pier 60 with its vendors all selling their wares. Will they all grasp that quarter for their fleeting pleasures, their hidden treasures?? Thanks for that lovely poem. I guess it means different things to different people.
hi Ralph...I should have known you would have a political take on this offering...I guess some folks are so up tight they can't see the light...thanks for stopping by anyway...Larry
Dohn...Thanks for the comments directed at the poem...check out A Texan"s hubs for political foreplay...Larry
Larry, I liked your poem. You painted a vivid word picture. My political take came from seeing the title on "Hubtivity" before reading the poem. My comment was not intended to put the poem down although I can see why you felt I ignored your poem. Sorry.
Judy... Thank you so much for the delightful comments...you live in a wonderful place on this earth...grab hold of what is offered... Carpe diem, my friend...Larry
Well this is really nice. An image for me that I never saw in real life. I can hear the lil organ grinding away and the chatter of the monkey too. Never have seen one 'cept on TV or the movies. Poor creatures anyway. I did see them in carnivals doing silly stuff like that, always feel sorry for them I do. Thanks Larry
Ralwus...Hello my Briny friend...glad you stopped by to share your take which I always respect...Larry
Great images, Larry. Like Ralwas I am always sorry for the monkeys that are made to do things like that. TRhey might look cute and all but I think they were destined for a better life than that!
But you poem is great, thanks.
Love and peace
Tony
Thank you, Tony, for your approving comments...Yes, the way man has " used " animals always produces a level of disgust and shame...I've seen little donkeys, forced to pull rickety carts overloaded with produce, being beaten by unfeeling humans...images that stick to your heart...Larry
You write well Larry. I'm pleased I stopped by to read this poem. Thank you for that opportunity. yep I've felt for the animal's plight. Just last year I released a 20lbr because the breeding season was due... lol... tight lines!
Thanks Pearl for stopping by...We have to get together some year and do a little fishing...How is the scuba out that way...? Larry
I make no secret of the fact that I don't have an artistic bone in my body, but reading this I'm glad that I am your fan. Great poem!
Thanks Tex...Your comment is much appreciated...and I am proud to be your fan...I just wish I was a prolific as you..Larry
Prolific? I know the meaning just not sure what you mean.
Tex..I mean as prolific as in 17 Hubs in 4 weeks...WoW..! And so many subjects...each well written and thought provoking...Thats why I became your fan....Larry
Oh, I think my wife wishes I wasn't so prolific. I actually got a lot of time on my hands and a buttload of opinions. Im glad you like them, and I appreciate the compliment.
I did..and WOW...tells it like it is...thanks for the link...
I liked this poem so much, I just started venturing into poetry so I enjoyed this very much. Thanks.
Ladybird...Thank you for stopping by and leaving your considerate comments...I look forward to reading you poetry...Larry
Oh I wish you would write more Larry, this is so good. I love the flow and the mellifluous song-like rythm. Thank you.
Thanks for stopping by Russ...You are always welcome here and your generous comments are very much appreciated...your beautiful haiku has inspired me to revel in that poetic expression. I'm still finding my way with different poetic and stream-of-consciousness prose forms...When is your next..?
Excellent alliteration and imagery Larry. I can hear the organ and feel the loneliness and desparation in the little monkey. Ah, so easily could one relate to the little monkey. And yes, carpe diem!
Beth...Your sensitivity is right on the mark, and thank you for the kind comments...Desperation indeed...many live lives of a quiet desperation, silently burdened by the tyranny of the weak...
Yes...A great poem that takes us through the little nuances of the act of one simple and innocent monkey. That monkey...
working for the man...to help keep them both in bananas! You help remind... that it is still just another day at the ol' grind (9 to 5'er job). Well Done. There is definitely something to the monkey's expression that you have captured in words. Something to the look that monkey gives you right as it is reaching out for the money.
Thank you, manlypoetryman, for your sensitive and defining comments which are pretty much on the mark...the symbiotic relationship of the organ grinder and monkey defines the circumstances for many folks living lives of quiet desperation.....
Yes, that look of desperation just before he snatches the coin...That look has always stayed with me to remind myself to never be in that position of obsequience to others...Larry
A life of quiet desperation, yes.
simple but understanding
Poignant. I can relate. Dwell on now. It's happennin'
LMY...Thanks for stopping by and commenting...you do get it...
Prasetio...Glad you understand...thanks for the comment..
Jess...Welcome to my newest fan...I can relate to your poems also...thanks for the comments..
mavon01, I liked your poem. thnaks
You are most welcome, Lgali...your comments are always honest and to the point...Larry
Fine rhythms, mate - I'm joining your fan club on the strength of this one. Keep them coming :)
P.S. - Come and join in the limerick thread in Arts forum? You'd have plenty to offer, I'm sure.
Paraglider...Thank you for the comments, and I am honored having you as a fan...Noticing your comments throughout HubPages has shown you to be a most discerning, intelligent, and respectful Hubber. Thank you for the encouragement...Larry
Maybe like scotch I have not yet acquired a taste for poetry, but this was good. How much easier to give money to a cute little monkey over a dirty beggar. I enjoyed it.. Thank you.
jiberish...Quite the contrary, I think you have excellent taste for poetry..you liked mine.!! Thanks for dropping by and leaving the nice comments...Larry
another excellent poem you really knows how to write nice poems
lgali..Thanks for returning and leaving another appreciated comment..I hope you got more out of it the second time around...Larry
I don't understand most poems but it seems to me that today the monkey would be grabbing for plastic or at least folding money. :)
Opinion Ducks...You are right...he should be reaching for the green...coins are passe'....I would love to see one wipe a credit card...can you imagine how cute..? And then politely hand it back to you...Thanks for stopping by...Larry
Larry
Thanks for the gesture, and it would at least make a good cartoon. We accept Visa, MC and AmEx, my monkey is swiping your card now, in both senses of the word.
Haw !..I like the double entendre'...Larry
Larry, great read. Loved the imagery and symbolism. If I were still teaching, I'd use it for a class assignment!
You could write a tongue-in-cheek response from PETA. LOL!
Hi habee...Thanks for stopping by and leaving your interesting comments...PETA is way too serious to appreciate anything humorous concerning man and animal...they would be marching in front of my house !...Just kidding..they do have a role in expressing concerns for human/animal relationships, however, like most well meaning liberal enterprises, they tend to go to extremes, thereby losing their target audience and playing mostly to their own choir...Great to hear from you, Larry
That monkey snatched my dime! If the organ grinder's monkey can talk- do you think it would say-- gimme liberty or gimme a dime? Very nice poem. Have a relaxing weekend Maven.
Goldi...Have to watch those monkeys...they can be quick ! But of course you tempted him to snatch it, so just rewards...Thank you for the comments...and yes, I think he would want liberty, although some monkeys prefer being taken care of by their masters...I think I know a few liberals that think like that...Larry
Such is the lot of the educated monkey flying spacecraft and such taking the risk out of dangerous stuff that the masters deem a challenge to their courage, fortitude and will...
So to, you tempt your thought with wondering... Another great rhyme, or reason...
Peace my friend...
Ioua...Thank you for the interesting comments...Philosophy is the art of Wondering...and peace to you, my friend..Larry
very nice poem and very vivid, they are alive, I never see that yet but then poor ones, they act like that, feel used too,
Larry, I want to greet you a Prosperous New Year and good health to you and yours, Maita
Wow. I love the style of this one, the rhythm and meter--let alone the images produced. The opening verse grabbed me in its pacing and never did let go. "Dark arms thickly" is probably going to be a phrase running through my mind for decades.
Maita...I apologize for overlooking your nice comments...and a belated Happy New Year to you and yours also...Larry
Ghost32...Thanks so much for the very nice comments..I really enjoy hearing from folks when they share their pleasure and thoughts after reading one of my poems...maybe instead of counting sheep the phrase " Dark arms thickly " will serve to enfold you in sleep...thanks for stopping by, and sorry for the late response...Larry
You are amazing - wow! Great poem. Very thoughtful and insightful. What talent!
Rated it UP!
Kelly...What a nice comment...thank you so much...I'm looking forward to being your latest fan...Larry
I loved your use of rhyme. It was just right. At the point I though, ok - too much, you changed the rhythm and gave the reader a break. Very nice!
mbwalz...First, let me welcome you to HubPages...I'm looking forward to following your Hubs...Thank you for the cogent comment...yes, poetry can sometimes be too much iambic and not enough pentameter...I like to experiment with rhythm and rhyme, kind of talk it to myself as I write...You are welcome back anytime...Larry
well they said it all so I won't try and grind out any compliments - instead I might paint me a picture with this in mind - do you mind
anyway thank you for the ideas and thank your for the opportunity to read this poem
Hi Bonny...Reading your short bio I was impressed with your concern and caring for abandoned animals..I see the relationship of the organ grinder and his monkey as symbiotic; each dependent upon the other for survival...
I would love to see the final result of your painting inspired by this little fellow...Thank you for stopping by and commenting...Larry
wow that was great, and like your so many other followers I agree that was beautiful and yes we used to see these in bali tied up and it is cruel. They looked cute although I know they do bite as my husband got bitten by one. Thanks for the great words
I like these Fleeting pleasures, hidden treasures, all so sweetly kept...
Burning passions, passing fashions, a silent scream is wept...
Eileen...Thanks for the comments which I sincerely appreciate...I can only imagine the suppressed anger these little fellows must have bottled up in them...I hope your husband had his tetanus shots...Larry
Lgali...I'm so very pleased that you enjoyed this poem...What are your fleeting pleasures, hidden treasures..? You, my friend, are a HubPages treasure...Thanks for stopping by...Larry
I feel for the poor little monkey but I also feel for the poor organ grinder who has to take help of the little creature for earning his bread!
You portrayed both of them in the same frame neatly and nicely. I am proud that I am your fan!
Cupid...And I am proud to be your friend and read your beautiful prose...Yes, it is a symbiotic relationship, each depending on the other for survival and sustenance...Good to see you writing again...Larry
Thanks larry for encouraging me. I will continue to write till I get friends like you who are always ready to read and comment and encourage. Thanks again.
Interestng poem
vrajavala...Thanks for the comment...Larry
Like trained monkeys, we cling to the thing, the coin.
"... all so sweetly kept...a silent scream is wept..." are such lovely subtle images linked by a rhyme which rings out in counterpoint. Thank you for a fine repast for the soul. Slainte.
Good morning, Gerry...Such fine words from a fine poet, and friend...Thank you.
Grasping for the ring as we twirl around on our crowded planet...many rings, many lost dreams...still, we reach out, with hope, with pain, with love...May your reach always exceed your grasp...Larry
Good morning Larry: congratulations to your SF Giants on winning the playoffs and good luck to them in the World Series. You caused me to turn to the game and watch SF eke out their narrow victory over the Phillies. I was delighted to witness the GIANT exuberance at their success.
Both their success and your response cause me to ask you to read my "at bat" Hub which is one of the very few which does not carry a comment of yours. I am listening to a radio program discussing onbeing.com and a video of Nepalese children flying kites made by Canadian children. We are all connected. Thank you for your prayer for me. May you always continue to release and never cling is my prayer for you, my friend. All the best, all the time. Gerry
Gerry...Somehow, reading your description of you watching Nepalese children flying kites melds into the projected image I hold of you...your perspective on life is always a co-joining of the human spirit, which you express so eloquently in your poetry...I'm humbled to have you as friend and fellow poet...
Slept in late this morning after a night of celebration with Lord Guinness and friends...I will check out your " At bat " Hub...Thanks for the heads up, and your kind words...Larry
The sentiments and the respect are mutual, my friend.
You had me at "the organ grinder's monkey", and the rest of the poem is cool too. My mind has been expanded on a scenario I'd never before given much thought. Thank you, Maven
Hi Doug...He's a cute little bugger, isn't he..?...But appearances can be deceiving...There is a quiet rage within, exposed outwardly when he aggressively snatches your proffered coin...no thank you, no dillydallying, he moves quickly to the next coin, ripping it out of the little girls fingers...the darting eyes, furtive and clever in their glance, seeking more coins, more offerings that reap the expected reward from the Organ Grinder man...I wonder what he dreams about..?
Thank you for stopping by and leaving your welcomed comments...Larry
I wish a had a good working organ or monkey. Thank you Sir!
That is funny, Mickey...didn't anybody ever warn you about bicycle seats..?
Thanks for stopping by...Larry
Yep maven! Just had some work done! Some seats are not your friends! God bless!
Mickey...That even hurts just thinking about it...Larry
You really are a great talent. I hope your poetry gets the notice it so well deserves!
Good morning, Carol...Thank you for the appreciated comments...Nice to see your smiling face again...Larry
So many fine words and works are lost in the currency of Hub Pages but deserve to be revisited such as the instant poem. You've given me an idea for a forum topic of recycled poetry more than one year old. HubPages should feature older Hubs just as they announce new releases each day. Hmmm, maybe I can put that in their suggestion box. Your fine poem stands the test of time.
Gerry...What a great idea for a forum topic...all of your poetry is worthy of a reread ( which I do all the time )...I'm flattered this little poem gave you the inspiration...Go well my friend...Larry
dohn121 Level 3 Commenter 2 years ago
Hahaha! Ralph Deeds is right on the "money." But now Obama wants us to become "The United Socialists States of America?" right? Whenever I think about the organ grinder's monkey I can't help but to think of the Bugs Bunny skit. Great poem, maven. I liked your use of alliteration and the second to last stanza is my favorite.