Portrait of a Young Musician

You return to the house in the dark. For a second or ten, I wonder who this is, unlocking the door, hovering in the black kitchen, returning so late. Hours ago, little brother, you stood one-legged, tall, (taller than me now,) leaning on your other leg, folded underneath you on the kitchen table. Your guitar lay prominently in your arms, your eyes wandered as you played around, thoughtfully. And if for one instant, your concentration fell away by my clapping and cheering, I glimpsed the you I knew.

And you sang

Autumn day
(published with your permission, and it’s unfortunate I cannot reproduce the melody)

A soft breeze blows leaves my way
I feel like I am being the king of this autumn day
But as a matter of fact
I am just a fellow citizen

Nothing in here could strike me down
I am like a leaf that’s flying all around
But as a matter of fact
I am just on my way home

(Chorus:)
It’s a pity that these days are so cold
It’s unfortunate that these days are so short
Now the leaves are made of gold
But don’t let it make you go inside
Just waiting for a night

Coz the golden leaves are flying out of your greedy hands
So I tie my shawl a bit a tighter around my neck
I turn so that the wind is in my back
And take my detour home

Where a cup of chocolate calls on me
Bye bye leaves of mystery
I hope to see you another day

(Chorus)

A soft breeze blows leaves my way
I feel like I am being the king of this autumn day
But as a matter of fact
I am just a fellow citizen