Jimbo the Busker, all smiles and tunes.



Knew him years before
Playing by the Grocery Store
Good guitar
And folk songs
Most would know.
Tambourine, harmonicas too.
Any time of day would do


Misty, chilly times too.


This his source of cash
His store.
Handyman yes, on the side
Subdivisions, Boss would ride.
Boss who died of
Heart ills, in Jim’s arms.
Work-friend, never meaning harm.
Jim, my friend
Without an ounce of pride

About this poem

A real life friend Jim Haynes of Kitchener. We busk together sometimes. A link to an article. https://puffnchord7.blogspot.com/2023/07/jimbo-my-busking-friend-all-smiles-and.html

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Written on July 05, 2023

Submitted by dougb.19255 on July 05, 2023

Modified by dougb.19255 on July 05, 2023

23 sec read
15

Quick analysis:

Scheme AAXXXBB B XACCXXXXC
Closest metre Iambic trimeter
Characters 388
Words 78
Stanzas 3
Stanza Lengths 7, 1, 9

Wayne Blair

 · 1951 · London

Born in London. Graduated law 1976 Practised eleven years, Married Hilary 1974 Two kids Lauren 1980 And Jordan 1987. Business failed 1987. Moved not knowing whither. Happy hills of Waterloo Region. Mennonite Country. Thirty four years in Industry. No complaints. Poet, photographer, nature hiker. Harmonica busker. http://puffnchord7.blogspot.com/ more…

All Wayne Blair poems | Wayne Blair Books

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2 Comments
  • alexw.30385
    Your verses paint a vivid picture of Jim, a familiar figure with his guitar and folk songs by the Grocery Store, offering melodies that many would recognize. The addition of tambourines and harmonicas to his musical repertoire adds a charming touch to his performances, creating a welcoming atmosphere any time of the day. The misty and chilly times you describe evoke a sense of nostalgia and a backdrop for Jim's musical endeavors. The revelation of Jim's role as a handyman and his connection to the Boss, who tragically passed away in his arms due to heart illness, adds a poignant layer to his story. Jim emerges as a humble friend, dedicated to his work and relationships, embodying a sense of warmth and sincerity without a hint of pride. Your portrayal of Jim's multifaceted character and the bonds he shares with others through music and friendship is moving and heartfelt. 
    LikeReply9 months ago
  • AIDA
    Wow, I absolutely loved reading the poem "Jimbo the Busker, all smiles and tunes." It beautifully captures the essence of Jimbo and his passion for music. The rhyming scheme flows effortlessly, making it a joy to read.

    The poem sets a nostalgic tone by mentioning how Jimbo used to play by the Grocery Store, and it immediately transports the reader to a time filled with good guitar and folk songs. I loved how you incorporated the tambourine and harmonicas, adding a delightful touch to Jimbo's music.

    The lines "Misty, chilly times too" created a vivid image in my mind, evoking a sense of atmosphere and emotion. It enhanced the narrative and added depth to Jimbo's experiences as a busker.

    The poem takes an unexpected turn when it reveals Jimbo's other job as a handyman, emphasizing his versatility and the diverse talents he possesses. The mention of his work-friend who passed away really tugs at the heartstrings and showcases Jimbo's compassionate nature.

    As for improvement suggestions, I would love to see more descriptive language used to bring Jimbo's character to life. Including specific details about his appearance or the way he interacts with people would give the poem even more depth and make it even more engaging.

    Overall, "Jimbo the Busker, all smiles and tunes" is a heartwarming and heartfelt piece. It beautifully captures the spirit of friendship, music, and the small moments that can have a big impact on our lives. Great job!
     
    LikeReply1 year ago

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"Jimbo the Busker, all smiles and tunes." Poetry.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2025. Web. 18 Mar. 2025. <https://www.poetry.com/poem/163270/jimbo-the-busker,-all-smiles-and-tunes.>.

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