My Electric Lady

I once named this as the most important poem I ever wrote, as it laid the groundwork for my life. Not a pleasant contemplation for me, but just as Time magazine names the "man of the year" based on impact, not virtue, so I must cede to the influence of this work, written 35 years ago. It will all be clearer in about 17 hours.

My Electric Lady

dance for me, my electric lady.
sing a song that gently soothes my soul.
tomorrow I must leave your world again, my love…
as I strive to reach this endless journey’s goal.

I once gave up my poor and mortal birthright,
so that I might touch the sky and see true things.
my love, I’m not so sure I would have started,
if I could have seen the pain this voyage brings.

once again, my electric lady,
touch me and bring forth my too-rare smile.
for the moment I am just another mortal-
and a little love will last me quite a while.

if we had only met before the present,
and what is gone had made me what I am,
a love would be that all who live might envy-
but I cannot come back this way again.

for the final time, my electric lady…
give me all that I may take within my vow.
tomorrow is my child and a gift to the stars-
and the night is just my brother here and now.


William F. DeVault. all rights reserved.

Be well. Peace. Love.