Poetry Unbound Hanif Abdurraqib — When We Were 13, Jeff’s Father Left The Needle Down On A Journey Record Before Leaving The House One Morning And Never Coming Back
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Apr 26, 2021 Hanif Abdurraqib, a poet and cultural critic from Columbus, reflects on the intertwining of music and personal memory. He shares how Journey’s 'Don’t Stop Believin’' serves as a backdrop to his childhood experiences of grief and growth. The conversation reveals the transformative power of music during nostalgic moments and its ability to enhance emotional connections with family and friends. Abdurraqib emphasizes how melodies can heal, offering a fresh perspective on loss and the bonds that shape our lives.
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Jeff's Father's Departure
- When Jeff's father left, he poignantly left a Journey record playing, forever etching the song in their memories.
- Years later, Jeff’s mom throws her wedding ring out the car window while listening to the same song.
Intertwined Narratives
- The poem weaves together personal narrative, music reflection, and the characters' lives.
- Absent characters like Jeff's dad and the poet's mom add another layer.
Adult Reflections on Music and Behavior
- As an adult, the poet reflects on childhood observations, linking music to human behavior.
- Neil Schon's guitar brilliance is connected to the brilliance of human character.