Accompanist


I practiced diligently
increased my confidence
enough to attempt rhythm guitar
for some more than competent players
I changed chords smoothly
even at the correct moment
changed dynamics
complimented the drummer’s polyrhythms
spurred the soloists
to a higher level of excitement

then the bandleader yelled “Guitar Solo”
I looked around the stage
to see if another guitar slinger
had snuck on, was prepared to take lead
the spotlight pointed at me
who ordered a spotlight
I don’t remember seeing it point
at any of the more deserving

I boosted my volume
and set off
a variation on the melody
a musical journey
in measure three I led myself into a wrong chord
hit a glaring mistake at full volume
disguised it with a repeat in measure four
began to play faster
no one can recognize a wrong note
if you don’t give it enough duration
for anyone to hear it
finished with a dazzling high note held
until the bandleader cinched it off and smiled
a round of applause ensued
somebody out there liked my playing
if only somebody in here could