The Mind Moves
I turned the page
Before finishing the last line
Voiding a sequence to come
Words overused
Under dreamed
Charles Luden • 1-1-11 • at Black Sheep
A Sacrificial Text
He translated it
Burned it
Then pissed into the fire
Charles Luden • 1-1-11 • at Black Sheep
When you say you want to be a better person, do you mean:
Medically (or biologically)
Physically
Spiritually
Economically
Mentally
Honestly
Musically
Artistically
Politically
or just to be a better driver?
Charles Luden • 1-3-11 • at Michelle’s
The Last New Year’s Eve at the Pomp Room
Did you come for the burning,
or only to smell the highly amped guitars:
a crackle, some quavers,
sweat under the stage lights?
Torment yourself no longer.
Breathe deep and shake that ass free form,
to hell with the beat and booze.
And at 2 AM zoom your motor
for those that want to take you,
for those more lonesome than the hobo.
Charles Luden • 12-11-98 & 1-13-99 at Champps & E. 10th Hardee’s
Note: This took place Dec 31, 1998. I studied the place for years prior to this night: the music, the people, the rum and Cokes. This was written in two sessions, distilling the Pomp Room’s last night.
I’m in orbit
You know what I mean
Like gone man
The music sends me there
Where is she?
I’m walking alone
Perpetual what?
There yeah now
Wow!
The 4th note
Drone
Charles Luden, 10-18-08 at Latitude 44 • inspired by The Blues Bashers
Note: One night after a poetry reading at the Horse Barn some of us went to Grille 26. I opened my notebook and read this poem to the group. Another poet at the table (M.J.) said, “What does that have to do with X-mas?” I guess my Christmases are unique. – C.L.
A creature was running ahead of me downtown on Phillips.
I don’t know if it was an animal dog or a dog dog.
It was on a leash held by a man in a black overcoat.
Hope they make it to shelter before the spring rains.
Charles Luden
12-17-10
on Phillips Ave
l3wis