The New Write Out Loud Poem of the Week is ‘Unpopular Music’ by Robert C Gaulke, who describes himself on his Write Out Loud profile as a high school teacher and songwriter living in the Bronx, New York. In his answers to Write Out Loud’s questions, Robert says he curates a twice-monthly songwriter showcase. His favourite poet/poem? There are “too many to mention”.  He believes he started writing poetry at the age of eight.

 

 

What got you into writing poetry?

Hmm. I don't think I had a choice in the matter.

 

How long have you been writing poetry?

My mother recently told me I began at the age of eight.

 

Do you go to any open mic nights?

We had the makings of a healthy scene here, then the bar kicked us out for a dj. I currently curate a twice-monthly songwriter showcase.

 

Your favourite poet/poem?

Too many to mention. I read a lot of 20th century Indian poetry in English; it helped me get through the death of my father. My mother died last week, so perhaps I'll find something new to read.

 

You're cast away on a desert island ... what's your luxury?

My girlfriend's definitely a luxury.

 

 

 

UNPOPULAR MSUIC

by Robert C Gaulke

 

I want to tell you 

tell you a secret

you have to promise

not to hear it 

 

I’m in front of you 

with my emotions

under my clothes

I’m naked

 

I’m gonna play

unpopular music

I don’t want you

to sing along

 

I’m gonna play 

unpopular music 

don’t dance to it

you’ll break an arm

 

these young people

everywhere 

I love them 

in my own way 

 

I see them hurting

with questions

I know what they feel

but can’t explain 

 

how they need 

unpopular music 

to fill in lines 

without names 

 

how they sing

unpopular music 

it’s something 

they can’t explain 

 

just knowing 

needing to be knowing

something in the universe 

feels the same