Orlando

I was thinking about the terrible events in the Pulse nightclub in Orlando recently, and imagined all the love that existed inside that building, all the people celebrating each other's existence with a night out in each other's company at the time of the attack, and it seemed to me that no act of violence can erase that love. Love survives everything.

I wrote these words below to accompany the "Interlochen" theme from the great American composer Howard Hanson's 2nd symphony to express this sentiment. The theme itself can be heard on this recording, starting at 4 minutes 25 seconds in.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FkxBAaME-ag

Please read the words while listening to the tune they are set to.

Orlando

Last night on earth? I'd spend it with you.
When I'm down your smile sees me through.
Nothing to fear when I hold you near
and you're holding me too.

I waited for love's debut,
years yearning, looking for you.
Now that you're here let's disappear.
Let's say adieu.