Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Living Backstreet

In 1933 my father was an entrepeneur of sorts and in his own way famous for being able to survive the depression by becoming Moon Mullins, Master of Ceremonies, band leader, writer of music and promoter of Marathons/Walkathons throughout the eastern and mid-western states. Just the year before, he married my mother and wrote a beautiful song entitled "Backstreet". There was a movie "Backstreet" about a woman who was the mistress of a wealthy doctor; she bore him a child and he and his society wife adopted the baby. The wife never knowing who was the real father. The mistress gave up the child in order to give it a chance in life and also so that she might remain a part of that life and while in immense sorrow, she remained the doctor's mistress until she died, alone and bereft upon her daughter's 21st birthday. In the song, she cries, "I'll be waiting backstreet for you...."

The song was ultimately recorded by Billie Holiday and has remained a force in my life ever since. Why? Because it speaks of love, a kind of unconditional love, an unrequited love, a love that lasts forever and I am a sucker for that kind of love.

Anyway, that explains the title of this Blog, in case you were wondering.

I am not sure how I will use this opportunity but hopefully it will be used in a good way; promoting kindness, peace and unity.

3 comments:

Sorry Gnat said...

Hey Ho Backstreet; love the title, Living Backstreet. Look forward to when you post pictures of your art work girl!

Welcome to the blog world, where the facts get written, the perceptions stated and women move on!!!!

Sorry Gnat said...

Hey girl; Happy birthday; the dull drum in my head just went thud; you go girl; great way to celebrate the increase of wisdom: starting a blog!
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Anonymous said...

Hi Ruie!! OK, I'm hooked, I want the full story of "At the Plaza". Of course, I was hooked before the blog...also, love the poetry of Thompkins, must get Two Poets. Oops, like your total blog, will have to make regular visits. Gotta run now, Fereshteh just reminded me I'm making dinner.. Persian dish, the one with the eggplant. Let us know when your're within shooting range of Corona, CA.. Love, Norman Bethel