Ideas Galore
The ideas were flowing like water during Take Over Tent's second showing of the season at the National Cultural Center last Saturday night. In my opinion, the ideas for calypsos could be put into one of three categories, brilliant, okay and downright bizarre. That was very much the same trend for all the tents I have been to so far, but it took TOT to give me some ideas of my own.
The idea of a King's Circus' by Super D was brilliant. It immediately brought to mind a phrase that is a favourite of one of my brother's in law, "Saint Lisi sa on Coney Island". It always produces a sardonic laugh when he says that because it usually follows a recounting of some unbelievable antics of the government or law enforcement.
'We Fail Them Already' by Herb Black was one of the alright ideas presented on the night. As far as I could tell one could work with the idea if one had to. It would not necessarily stimulate your most creative juices but it could be 'nice'. 'I Will Multiply' was just bizarre. I am sorry, but Lady Spice trying to justify her big belly by claiming that she was making right the ills of society that resulted in young ghetto children dying was weird. 'As fast as ghetto children die, Lady Spice will multiply'. What does she have, a schedule.
But then came the best idea of all. I will open a writers' clinic for calypsonians. It will be free, until you win of course and then and only then will I look to collect my pound of flesh. Here is how it works. Bring in your ideas. If you must, bring in a first draft of your calypso, although I would prefer if you didn't. I will use your brilliant idea and craft the lyrics for you at the clinic. I won't worry to much about the simple rhymes as that sometimes makes the song sound childish....
It must be our concern, concern
To ensure that they learn, they learn.....
I won't worry about syntax or semantics but concentrate on satirical and humorous tones. I will put in a special effort to ensure that I make the most effective use of puns, plays on words and allusions. The bad ideas I would refer to a specialist. I know my limits, shouldn't everyone?
