This article explores two poems written in tribute to the influential Beat poet and surrealist, Ted Joans, and indirectly, to the legendary jazz saxophonist Charlie Parker. These poems, penned by neo-Beat poet Catherine Lee, offer glimpses into the vibrant world of jazz, poetry, and personal connection. They serve as a testament to the enduring power of artistic inspiration and the profound impact mentors can have on their protégés.
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Mais Oui Debrief: A Surrealist Snippet
“Mais Oui Debrief” is a short, evocative poem capturing a surreal moment shared with Ted Joans. The poem’s brevity mirrors the fleeting nature of memory, yet its impact lingers. The seemingly nonsensical image of terrorists demanding underwear on a plane and parasailing away naked speaks to Joans’ surrealist leanings, his penchant for the absurd, and his ability to find humor in the unexpected. This brief piece, dedicated “for ted,” is a poignant reminder of shared experiences and the unique lens through which Joans viewed the world.
Mais Oui Debrief ……………..*(for ted)*
Was it something she said? about the famous Charlie Parker drawers
He — himself a drawer — illustrator, declaimer of conclusions —
commenced to rapping about terrorists on LA flight demanding underwear
then parasailing away leaving bare-assed passengers behind(s) to deplane debriefedBebop Tourists in Bird’s Yard: A Pilgrimage to Parker’s Grave
“Bebop Tourists in Bird’s Yard” recounts a pilgrimage to Charlie Parker’s grave, a journey undertaken by a group of jazz enthusiasts, including Lee. This poem paints a vivid picture of their quest, filled with humorous misdirections and a palpable sense of reverence for the iconic saxophonist. The cold, the train whistle’s mournful cry, and the poet’s own attempt at a “bass note” on the car horn all contribute to the atmosphere of solemn respect mixed with playful camaraderie. The poem culminates in a touching tribute, with Greta, a fellow saxophonist, lying on Parker’s grave and Lee discovering a pair of Parker’s saxophone-case drawers. These seemingly irreverent actions are imbued with deep affection and admiration for the departed musician.
Bebop Tourists In Bird’s Yard …………..*(Women’s Jazz Festival, Kansas City MO, March 27, 1983)*
Saxophonists Greta and Bill got directions from the Musicians’ Mutual Foundation
(the historically black musicians’ union) how to find his grave. Charles Parker Jr.
(August 29, 1920 – March 12, 1955 — christened “Yardbird,” abbreviated “Bird”
as in “Bird Lives!” chalked all over New York City by his bebopper buddies
the day he died). Go to Lincoln Cemetery, off Truman; look for the wall,
right, at the top of the hill.
So Marsha, the pianist, recruited your poet to talk Clark Kent into chauffeuring
and Jan the banker came along for the ride. After driving through Elmwood
Cemetery by mistake and Washington Cemetery (could they have been confused?)
and stopping for directions at a monument works we did finally find it.
Fresh flowers already there: Love, Sheila Jordan.
Greta brought her ax out after a solemn moment and commenced to blow
a bebop head but damn it was cold. We took some pictures, all of us,
and yes Greta did lie down on top of him, saying “He got stepped on
a lot but he survived.” And yes your poet did pose with her hand
inside the famous drawers Bill found: dark blue with golden frigates,
size 44, wrapping the mouthpiece stuffed in the bell of a
saxophone Parker supposedly borrowed for a gig once upon a time.
A train whistle mourned from the valley below. Your poet honked the horn
for the first time flaccidly trying to blow a bass note. It was wicked
cold and lonely up top of that hill, so we know he didn’t mind the visit
by a bunch of looney tourists in bebop country.
The Legacy of Mentorship and Musical Inspiration
These poems, written in tribute to Ted Joans, reveal a deep connection between mentor and protégé. They also showcase the interwoven nature of jazz and poetry, demonstrating how music can inspire verse and how words can capture the essence of a musical experience. Lee’s poems offer a heartfelt homage to both Joans and Parker, celebrating their respective contributions to the artistic landscape and the enduring power of their influence. These tributes serve as a reminder of the importance of recognizing those who have shaped our creative journeys and the profound impact they have on our artistic expression.