Still Rolling After All These Years



Still Rolling After All These Years


Dear Friends:

I'm feeling
All Right Now;
I'm Stone Cold Sober,
though for A Long Time Gone
in a Purple Haze.

Yesterday, For Once In My Life,
I was thinking Everclear;
Wond'ring Aloud
(how you feel today), and considering,
could I really take any more
Time In A Bottle?

Even - One More Time?

Perhaps after Next Time, I'm
Flying High like Lucy in the Sky,
I will Finally Realize how I should best
Take To The Sky.

I'll chose a Jefferson Airplane
before I consider boarding a
Led Zeppelin ever again,
or Maybe Not Tonight.

Maybe you can
Never Again, Get Back,
until you Take The Highway
and get On The Right Track.

Puff, The Magic Dragon says Hello, Goodbye,
which reminds me ironically that,
ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE.

PS...
I Was Only Kidding
Until, The Last Line.

Let the Jailhouse Rock,
but drink responsibly
-
I Love You :‪)‪
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Written on January 20, 2025

Submitted by mark.e.s on January 20, 2025

Modified by mark.e.s on January 27, 2025

56 sec read
164

Quick analysis:

Scheme AB CXDXX XDXCXX E EAXA FGFX XHGH AXX BCX XX XD
Closest metre Iambic trimeter
Characters 861
Words 184
Stanzas 10
Stanza Lengths 2, 5, 6, 1, 4, 4, 4, 3, 3, 5

Discuss the poem Still Rolling After All These Years with the community...

6 Comments
  • gary_dean
    I live in Michigan, where weed is legal by popular vote and I was never bothered by the references, anyway. I like the song titles arranged as narrative, it's clever and well done. I have a daughter working to overcome substance issues and loss of drivers license and parts of this poem resonated for that, but that was probably not your main objective.. It is a good read and a clever write. I would recommend. 
    LikeReply 112 days ago
    • mark.e.s
      I know what that's all about, I've had friends and relatives that had serious problems, not just me. My objectives weren't purely selfish when I wrote that, I've had a lot of help along the way from people who didn't turn their backs on me when I've needed it most. 
      LikeReply 112 days ago
    • mark.e.s
      Thank you.
      LikeReply12 days ago
    • mark.e.s
      I meant it as a message for everyone, even those who've never suffered from this kind of self-abuse, and many times it was they, that helped me along above all. Some of my acquaintances that were also involved didn't want to partake when I suggested we all leave that scene for good. I know people can change though so I guess my heart was going out to everyone at the time I came up with that, also having a need to get it out and forgive myself in the process. I'm only human after all is what I have to confess to myself, along with my own bad habits. 
      LikeReply12 days ago
    • gary_dean
      It's a good poem and like I said, it resonates with those who know the struggle.
      LikeReply 112 days ago
    • gary_dean
      I didn't think it was selfish at all. The only reference missing was the White Rabbit by Grace Slick. It's a solid work.
      LikeReply 112 days ago
    • mark.e.s
      It's implied! I think that song is amazingly written, and to hear it played is incredible (just in the way Grace sings that, alone), just as all of the songs by any of the artists I included references to in my poem. That poem could have never taken shape if it hadn't been for them, as so much of it is composed of their names & titles! I meant it as much as an ode to them and their music, although a note of sadness throughout the poem due to the topic of abuse. There are also examples in there of writers & compositions, to keep things in balance, that are meant as an uplifting break from the somewhat darker references in the poem. Thanks for your compliments. 
      LikeReply 112 days ago
    • mark.e.s
      Gary, thanks for the vote!
      LikeReply 112 days ago
  • AIDA
    What a vibrant and engaging poem! Your use of musical references creates an upbeat and nostalgic atmosphere that resonates deeply with readers who appreciate classic tunes. The way you weave together various songs and artists not only adds an enjoyable rhythm to your piece but also showcases your creativity and ability to connect personal experiences with well-known cultural references. Your playful tone, paired with the underlying message about sobriety and reflection, strikes a perfect balance between light-heartedness and introspection.

    What I Loved:
    1. Clever References:
    The myriad of song references—from "Purple Haze" to "Lucy in the Sky"—brings a unique charm and keeps the reader engaged. They create a sense of familiarity and nostalgia that many can relate to.
    2. Positive Vibes:
    You maintain an upbeat tone throughout, which makes the poem not only enjoyable to read but also uplifting. Lines like “I'm feeling All Right Now” convey a powerful sense of positivity.
    3. Engaging Structure:
    The structure, with its conversational style and playful punctuation, adds a personal touch that feels both intimate and inviting.

    Suggestions for Improvement:
    1. Clarity in Themes:
    While the musical references are delightful, consider weaving in a clearer throughline or theme that ties all the references together. This could enhance the emotional depth and create a more cohesive narrative.
    2. Pacing:
    Some stanzas feel a bit packed with ideas. Try to space out the references a little more or expand on certain lines to give readers a moment to absorb your thoughts. A little slow build-up can heighten the impact of your message.
    3. Exploration of Emotions:
    While the poem is joyful, you might consider diving a bit deeper into the emotions tied to sobriety and reflection. Sharing a personal anecdote or moment of vulnerability can create an even stronger connection with your audience.
    4. Final Line Impact:
    The last line is intriguing and playful, but perhaps you could sharpen its impact a little more. Think about how you want the reader to feel as they finish reading—do you want them to smile, reflect, or even laugh? Fine-tuning this moment could elevate your powerful closing.

    Overall, "Still Rolling After All These Years" is a delightful and imaginative piece that celebrates life and music. With a few adjustments, it has the potential to resonate even more deeply with your audience. Keep writing—your voice is a joy to read!
     
    LikeReply 116 days ago
  • Inactiveuser
    Wonderful and humorous, very well written
    LikeReply 128 days ago
  • ladyygracious
    Nice
    LikeReply 129 days ago
  • philmaund
    Hahaha! Very clever!
    LikeReply 129 days ago
  • karlcfolkes
    This poem is packed full with a flurry of cultural, political and particularly historical musical references familiar to many of us. Thanks for the memories.
    LikeReply 129 days ago

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"Still Rolling After All These Years" Poetry.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2025. Web. 19 Feb. 2025. <https://www.poetry.com/poem/210451/still-rolling-after-all-these-years>.

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