The Last Organ Grinder
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Poetry/Haibun/The Last Organ Grinder
Copyright Protected, ID 10-1587-792-22
All Rights Reserved, 2023, Constance La France
Written, October 22, 2023
For the International Contest The Last Organ Grinder
Sponsor, Silent One, Judged 11/22/2023
Second Place
The street organ grinder was a musical novelty popular in the 19th century.
It consisted of a barrel organ strapped to the body, it was heavy, and had a
stick to stand it up, a crank wheel moved a cylinder inside to create music.
It was usually a repetitive song. The poor quickly saw it as a way to make
money, it was like begging, but they gave music. It was common to use
animals in the act, like cats, dogs, parrots and cute capuchin monkeys.
The public responded well with dancing and singing along, children loved it.
Nowadays there are still organ grinders around but they do not use animals
but stuffed toys instead. A lot of cities outlawed them as it was against the
law to beg on the street, and the repeating music could be quite annoying.
The police would receive many complaints. Grinders would move from block
to block playing their music and accepting money. There are seldom seen on
the streets but sometimes at fairs and places like that. In 2023, we still have
barrel organ grinders but I fear that they will be the last as it is fading away.
come hear the music
dance a little jig with friends -
leave a few coins please
Copyright © Constance La France | Year Posted 2023
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