Sitting crossed-legged in the entry way of a closed bank on Jasper Avenue, Edmonton’s premier boulevard, the scruffy busker strummed his guitar, smiling hopefully at a passing businessman.
“…And the Colorado rocky mountain high, I’ve seen it rainin’ fire in the sky…”
The businessman apparently had not, continuing on his way without a glance at the busker. The music ended abruptly, the busker bellowing “What is wrong with the goddam fucking people in this town? You’re all assholes!” Then the busker started singing again.
“You can talk to God and listen to the casual reply, rocky mountain high, hi, hi, lo, lo…”
A young woman passed. “You bitch! You’re a fucking bitch!” he blurted, then picking up where he had left off once again.
“Now his life is full of wonder but his heart still knows some fear…”
My seventh campaign pledge: The Smiling Kodiak administration will provide mental health services to any busker that expects tips for singing John Denver tunes.
Continue reading 09. Prairie Singers