Because I play some guitar and like to write, I dabble in a bit of songwriting. Now it would be logical to presume that I don’t have the ability to write anything of any quality. But maybe I could get away with being crudely considered an aspiring poet. And poets write about things that stir their emotions. As such I have written a song relating to the Voice to Parliament debate. I am a passionate supporter of the Voice. This song is in fact called ‘No Voices’ because it is me trying to reason out the thinking of some on the No side. There are obviously two sides to any debate and some reasonable and valid explanations people have for believing we should vote No. Unfortunately, there are also some unreasonable fears, misunderstandings, conspiracy theories, and of course it can’t be denied – racism, that drives some to believe what they do. This song is me trying to articulate some of the unreasonable perspectives.
In the bridge and outro is a quiet voice asking for reason.
Now if you also presume I’m unlikely to have any ability as a poet, then read no further.
No Voices
Verse From the start we’ve said, and they’re our words. Some were granted stays, a place and bed. You tore it down, your fires made. And to this day my head won’t bend. Verse We came to watch you play, with hoots and cheers. We created many stars, what do you say? So ply your trade to show and play your role, The one that we designed and made.
Chorus You can say it with your dancing feet, with your nimble charms, your painted sheets. You can say it in your scarce old tongues. But your voice can’t presume to speak. Your song’s for dreaming it’s not to walk like me.
Verse Yeah, for me nothing changes, it’s safe as crowns! And this power’s always mine, tooth and nail. But when you extend your hand and say it’s fine Then I scratch my head and look behind.
Chorus So, you can say it with your dancing feet, your nimble charms, your painted sheets. You can say it in your scarce old tongues. But your voice can’t presume to speak. We’d be turning in the earth. Keep on dreaming you can walk like me.
Bridge Sister in your world out there I’m asking you to please be fair, Have I ever been a burden in your life? Please not another century, There is no veiled conspiracy. Brother, it’s but a gesture that I seek. Chorus Well, say it with your dancing feet, your nimble charms your painted sheets. Say it in your scarce old tongues But your voice can’t presume to speak. Why should I roll in my sleep? If I don’t know I’ll shout you down. Where’s the ground for you to walk like me? Outro You fear little things you’ll never see. Brother, why are your words still choking me?
