September 11, 2011
Can't stand the rain...
I have had an ear worm all week: the Ann Peebles version of “I Can’t Stand the Rain,” which was recorded in 1973, a year before I saw her at La Cave, the underground folk (and later, rock) club off University Circle. So long ago.
I can't stand the rain 'gainst my window
Bringing back sweet memories
Blame my music meme on the effects of Lee and Katia, as it’s been raining here since last Sunday. Maybe there was one day without precip. Tuesday? My birthday? One day melts into another. I shouldn’t complain, at least I’m not in Vermont, or in a town along the Susquehanna.
I can't stand the rain 'gainst my window
'Cause he's not here with me
The term ear worm is the literal translation of the German word ohrwurm, which rhymes with "door worm," but the "w" is pronounced like a "v". I read that the Portuguese call an ear worm chiclete de ouvido, or ear chewing gum. Other terms include "humsickness", "repetunitis", "headsong", "obsessive musical thought", "music virus", and "tune wedgy,” which I find particularly evocative.
do you remember
How sweet it used to be
When we were together
Everything was so grand, yes it was
Now that we've parted
There's one sound that I just can't stand...
I was going to hang the flag outside this morning, but it showered and thunderstorms are predicted later. Flying Old Glory when it’s wet is bad flag etiquette. The National Flag Code states: “The flag should not be displayed on days when the weather is inclement, except when an all weather flag is displayed.” My mom bought our flag back in the 1950s, when I was a Girl Scout. It’s cotton, not nylon or polyester which are the materials recommended for long-term outdoor use, and it looks like it’s 50 years old, a little faded, a little more beige than white. I really should purchase a new flag.
NPR reported that this morning the sun was shining in New York City. A good day to fly the American flag.
|
