Monthly Archives: May 2012

Fight or Journey?

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The other day, I posted my thoughts on Amendment One. A day has passed, and I have already edited that post as my contemplation has progressed. I think the most important change was the changing of the word “Fight” to “Journey.” With the passing of Amendment One, many (including myself) have been sounding the rallying cry that this is not over. But what is this exactly? I would contend that if it’s a fight we want, it had better be over right now. This word is insufficient at best, for I have no intention of punching anyone who voted for Amendment One. But I hope the journey is just beginning. A journey we can take together.

And yes! I have another song for this! And this song is for ALL of us.

STILL contemplating,
Nathan Hathaway Adams

“This Is Not Over Yet”

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[After I wrote this post, I wrote a follow up post here.]

Yesterday, North Carolina passed Amendment One. I am deeply saddened by this. Do I see this Amendment as prejudiced? Yes. Do I see everyone who voted for it as a bigot? No. I hope that everyone can find a way to have helpful and respectful dialog in their own little worlds over the coming months. But perhaps most important of all, is this journey over? No. Do I have a song that is perfect for this particular moment? DUH.

*Small word choice edits made for clarity after skimming Justin Lee’s Blog. 

Contemplating,
Nathan Hathaway Adams

May the Fourth Be With You! (Cut Songs from STAR WARS)

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May the Fourth be with you! To celebrate, let me present to you two songs that were cut from the current versions of the STAR WARS films, both of which I rather like!

The first is “Lapti Nek,” the original Jabba’s palace song. This was actually written by Joseph Williams, John Williams son. I’ve heard this was changed because they wanted something less dated (and “Jedi Rocks” CERTAINLY fixes that), but I really prefer this song.

The second is Yub Nub, the Ewok Celebration Song from the original ending of “Return of the Jedi.” This was replaced in the special editions by shots of the entire Star Wars universe celebrating the downfall of the Emperor. Because as all of us in the modern west know, the moment you eliminate a nefarious leader, their ENTIRE nefarious network falls instantly. (And even if it did, why would Tatooine care? I thought they were controlled by the Hutts?)

The force will be with you . . .

always,
Nathan Hathaway Adams

SIWIW: Under the Willow Tree

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“SIWIW” stands for “Songs I Wish I Wrote” and I hope make it a regular feature on my blog. I was first introduced to idea when the Library of Congress asked Stephen Sondheim to make such a list, which was subtitled “At Least In Part” (the same applies here).

This song is an aria from Samuel Barber’s opera “Vanessa,” here sung in a choral arrangement by the BYU singers. One of my dear friends performed this on his Senior Recital, and as he practiced it, I grew to love it.

Make sure you watch the video as well as listen, the singers make some gorgeously delightful facial expressions.

Crying,
Nathan Hathaway Adams