Playing Guitar In the Rain

I’m too old to live out these songs I sing.
There has been too much pumped into these veins.
But if you remember how I was back in time… 
Won’t you toss me a nickel or a dime?

I used to travel all around the world.
and I bought my condoms by the case full.
I stored all my cocaine in quart-sized mason jars…
in my yachts, jets, and fancy armored cars.

Man, those were sure some good old glory days.
Before I smoked and drank my dreams away.
When everything I touched turned into solid gold…
Back before the horse took away my soul.

You know that once the devil seals the deal.
There’s no way you can beg, borrow, or steal.
Another second of the fame that you ain’t owed…
No matter how bright the lightning you rode.

Chorus:
When I was on top, man I was the best,
I was so damned far above all the rest.
I’d give my life to have that spotlight once again…
Not outside on this sidewalk begging change.
Standing here playing guitar in the rain.

Your tracks may have faded away with time. 
But all those old wounds that you left behind. 
Left me with so much more to remember you with…
I can’t say that I thank you for the gift.

I wonder is there nothing left in me.
but the memories of what used to be.
and those sad dreams about how my life could have been…
Knowing I can never go there again.

Now I’m playing these old forgotten songs.
begging change from strangers that come along.
Hoping to get enough to buy a fifth of gin…
I lost my wife, kids, and even my friends.

So heed the words of this broken-down man.
Hold on tight to any dreams that you can.
Because once they're gone, they won’t be back again…
And you’ll find yourself outside, playing guitar in the rain.

(Repeat Chorus)
Copyright © | Year Posted 2023

Poem

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Jones Avatar
September 23, 2023 at 9:28 AM
Jerry! Oh my gosh this is beautiful. It is melodic and meaningful. It should be a top country song! I wish I could hear the music. A fav for me!
Brotherton Avatar
September 24, 2023 at 7:41 PM
Thank you, Karen.
Vaso Avatar
September 20, 2023 at 12:23 AM
Enjoyed this, would love to hear it put to music!
Brotherton Avatar
September 20, 2023 at 9:16 AM
Thank you, Arthur. The tune is in my head. But sad to say, the words come easier than the music.
Rose  Avatar
September 19, 2023 at 6:30 PM
Sometimes playing guitar in the rain can be fun only if we decide that is what we want lol, nicely penned Jerry, I agree dreams don't always last forever though
Brotherton Avatar
September 20, 2023 at 9:08 AM
So true, as long as it is not an electric guitar. Sorry for my attempt at a joke. Seriously, thank you for reading and for such a lovely comment. Have a blessed day my friend.
Situation Avatar
September 19, 2023 at 6:08 PM
This should bring you the POTW place. It was done with art in mind. And the truth patterens so many forgotten lives. A+ I'd say.
Brotherton Avatar
September 20, 2023 at 9:28 AM
I appreciate your kind words TS. The message is a simple one. Drugs and alcohol abuse only knows destruction. There will be no happy ending.
Rolland Avatar
September 19, 2023 at 2:41 PM
so melancholic poetry, you made me think to a song of George Harrison, i can't remember which one, this is well penned and sensitive, thanks poet
Brotherton Avatar
September 20, 2023 at 9:31 AM
Perhaps, 'While my guitar gently weeps'. It is such an honor to even be mentioned in the same paragraph as George Harrison. Thank you for your kind words, Yann. Have a blessed day my friend.
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