Grace

Spent a good part of the afternoon on the water - learning my way around kayaking in Lake Union. By the time it started raining, I had splashed enough water into the kayak with the movement of the oars, the lake water warm on my hands, I really didn't mind. We all hauled butt back to the Aqua Verde Paddle Club though, for margaritas and some dinner.

I was beat by the time I got back home & have been idling this evening. I caught a documentary about Jeff Buckley tonight. I had never heard of him until J played Everybody here wants you (or was it So real?) and I was floored by the music, the sound of his voice, the lyrics.

Everybody here wants you
Twenty-nine pearls in your kiss
A singing smile
Coffee smell and lilac skin
Your flame in me

I’m only here for this moment ...

The story I knew of him was that his father, Tim Buckley, had passed early in his life - after creating striking music that complemented his beautiful voice. Jeff's life reflected his father's talent and, tragically, his early end. I just assumed that Jeff's life ended because of drama and drugs.

The documentary shows something wholey different. Jeff was raised with an entirely different name - his mother having married after Tim Buckley moved on. Jeff was into guitar and was adept, having been sent to LA to attend a guitar school in his teenage years. He did not sing until he met his father's wife and then listened to all of the music his father put out.

Subsequent of that experience and a few others, Jeff made his way to NYC and participated in Fluxus events - and performance art.

I write all of this because it's impressive when ability and talent go hand in hand in one person. The documentary concluded with the shocking, senseless loss. He wanted to float in the Mississippi where it is too dangerous for folks to swim. Had nothing to do with drama.

It's worth looking into his music if you haven't heard it - there was a bit in the documentary where Jimmy Page goes on and on about Grace. Though Sketches for my sweetheart the drunk is as good a place to start.

We're taking time this weekend, J & I to regroup from a busy week or two or ...