No More Blues

Summary

The website content presents a reflective poem titled "No More Blues," inspired by the first bossa nova album by João Gilberto, exploring themes of longing and melancholy, and discussing the untranslatable Portuguese concept of "saudade."

Abstract

"No More Blues" is a poignant poem that captures the essence of yearning and the pain of fading love. It draws inspiration from the iconic bossa nova track "Chega De Saudade" by João Gilberto, which translates to "No More Blues" or "Enough Longing." The poem reflects on the emotional turmoil of lost love, characterized by memories of happier times now being "redacted," and the cold indifference replacing what was once a warm connection. The piece is accompanied by a contemplative image and acknowledges the influence of João Gilberto's style, which parallels that of Chet Baker. The concept of "saudade," a term that encapsulates a deep emotional state of nostalgic longing, is central to the poem and is further explored in an associated essay titled "Mixed Emotions: A Dictionary of Anxiety and Longing." Additionally, the poem is part of a larger writing challenge that includes a series of entries on bossa nova and personal memoirs.

Opinions

The author expresses a profound connection to the musical style of bossa nova, particularly the work of João Gilberto, suggesting it as a source of inspiration.
There is an admiration for the depth of emotion conveyed in the song "Chega De Saudade," which is mirrored in the poem's own exploration of complex feelings.
The poem suggests a reverence for the untranslatable nature of "saudade," recognizing its expression not just in music but in various aspects of culture.
The essay "Mixed Emotions" is presented as a means to further unravel the elusive concept of "saudade," indicating the author's dedication to understanding and articulating such intricate emotions.
The inclusion of the July Writing Challenge and Terry Barr's memoirs suggests a collaborative spirit and an appreciation for shared creative endeavors centered around music and emotion.

A poem

Long enough this longing my heart window is closing as you redact the memories of golden afternoons

Impossible to live with injured strings of your unravelled regard light years away love notes sung dropped in puddles haphazardly

Your hard eyes, tearless and silence indifferent in airless acceleration coldly adrift

Burning are the memories of golden afternoons

Inspired by Chega De Saudade (“Enough Longing” or “No More Blues”) by João Gilberto (written by De Moraes & Jobim). The title track from the 1959 album is considered the first bossa nova album. João Gilberto sings with rousing and beautiful melancholy here and his singing style draws parallele to Chet Baker who was a possible inspiration.

Bossa nova is only one aspect of culture which expresses the complex concept of saudade , a Portuguese-Galician word that is untranslatable. I unravel the meaning in of this elusive concept along with others in this essay:

Written for the July Summer Music Challenge where I wrote a poem or story about bossa nova for 31 days. See below for all entries including Terry Barr’s 8 brilliant memoirs about summer and music:

No More Blues

A poem

Mixed Emotions

A Dictionary of Anxiety and Longing

July Writing Challenge

We need some Bossa Nova