The Keeper of the Songs

A Caddo heart stopped beating, On October nineteen ninety-seven. The Social Dancing head singer, Has transitioned into Heaven. With a great ear for music, The Turkey Dance rang aloud. And the beating of the drum's, Rhythm moved the crowd. With a well of traditional stories, He’d begin and others sang along. The seasonal dances forever yearn; The keeper of the songs. ______________________________ This is a tribute to Wimpy Edmonds. The last member of the Caddo tribe, who new all the traditional songs. The lead singer and head drummer, for Native American music at Pow-Wows. www.texasbeyondhistory.net/tejas/voices/today.html
Copyright © | Year Posted 2008

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Edmonds Avatar
December 12, 2008 at 11:54 PM
This poem is very special to me as was the man it was written for, so many times we dont know how rare of a gift we have before us till its gone. I say this not only for my dad wimpy but for the author of this wonderful dedication, Raul. My father didnt like to draw attention to himself but rather the work he was doing and whom he was doing it for, so even though he went on his journey its nice that he's remembered for the work he's done while he was with us. Thank you Raul and BOOMER SOONER!!!
Neal Avatar
December 6, 2008 at 3:49 PM
I went to a pow wow and heard the Turkey Dance. Nice work. DN
Reynolds Avatar
December 5, 2008 at 2:27 AM
Oh, that is heartbreaking, truly heartbreaking. I come from the central plains, and feel very connected to Native Americans, in life and spirit, so this touched me deeply. Lovelt tribute, love Kristin
Lopez Avatar
December 3, 2008 at 7:57 PM
to the native americans who preserve their culture, this is a reminder of the beauty of their history. I to live in a native american community and love the many differrent cultures and tribes.........very nice
Neal Avatar
December 2, 2008 at 12:11 PM
This is a sad and touching poem. You captured my attention totally with this poignant flow of words. Such a nice tribute to a Caddo heart. An elder is always a special person and will always be missed and spoke about forever. Great write Raul and nice dedication Love Elizabeth
Joe Avatar
December 2, 2008 at 12:49 AM
This has a real lyrical feel to it. The structure is skilfully put together and the rhyme scheme doesn't come over as forced. This gives a nice flow to this poem. The narrative is great as a commentary on tradition and says much about the transitory nature of it.
Strand Avatar
December 1, 2008 at 12:45 AM
Nice tribute Raul.Rgds Brian & thanks for your welcome comments
Ginn Avatar
November 30, 2008 at 7:33 PM
I was so sad when I read that he ws the last member of his tribe. Something very precious has been lost forever.
Richards Avatar
November 30, 2008 at 6:00 PM
This is simply lovely...such a beautiful tribute to someone who you must admire so much. Nicely done, Raul! ~ Carrie
Torres Avatar
November 30, 2008 at 5:39 PM
Raul what a special tribute. Nicely done GBU Michael
Neal Avatar
November 30, 2008 at 2:21 PM
Nice tribute you penned here, Wimpy must have been special. I love your tributes, you write them in a remarkable way. God Bless you and Wimpy
Winter Avatar
November 30, 2008 at 1:29 PM
You should make a notation or link as to what picture or art form this refers to, if possible. Sounds like something beautiful to see. Also, sorry for what seems like a great loss. Very special tribute. Love, Shar
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