Much has been written about melancholia. Most of it bathed in darkness, overwhelming sadness and misery. This is true with some people - in some cases. I am not one of those people. When the time is right, I enjoy being melancholic. In my opinion there is a fine line between being melancholy and sentimental. They are both okay.
Being sentimental is a stirring up of emotions from one’s youth or generally a long time ago. Something that evokes one or more of our senses. These memories or emotions can be both happy and sad. Victor Hugo, author of Les Misérables wrote, “Melancholy is the happiness of being sad.”
The first time I remember experiencing something like this was when I saw the movie Old Yeller as a little boy (and every time after). The ending, you who remember it, was initially very sad but then turned to happy when it ended. It is something I call, and maybe you do too, happy / sad. And what brings back emotion to light better than music? And so … I offer up a bunch of some of my favourite tunes and I can only hope than many of them are yours as well.
As a final note: I characterize the difference between an alcoholic and a melancholic as in the first one drinks to forget and the other drinks to remember. If you enjoy a glass of your favourite adult beverage, have a sip and take a trip with me on a sentimental journey with a little garnish of melancholy. If it leaves you a little misty eyed or at the very least, with a smile on your face, I’ve done my job. Cheers!
And remember "Melancholy characterizes those with a superb sense of the sublime."
Here it is. Episode #2 of my tribute to the memorable music from the early 1950's to the mid 1960's. This one is somewhat summer themed. I'll start with the Theme from a Summer Place by Percy Faith and then ... well, why waste time with me telling about the music that is sure to conjure up warm and happy memories of days long ago. Listen up and listen in to some of my personal mid-century memories.
Sit back, relax and listen to some of the most outstanding music from the early 1950's to the mid 1960's. With the help of producer and podcaster Greg Gardner, we have chosen some of best songs and instrumentals from that magic time of memory-making music. A true cacophony of crooners, country and even a little classic comedy here and there. Somewhere in here you are sure to hear a nugget of old gold that might even make you a little misty-eyed if it catches you in a melancholy moment. This is the first in what I plan to provide for you - a real sentimental journey. All Aboard.