Jan 07 2009
Them Poems by Mason Williams
Photo courtesy of www.library.wisc.edu
I received a copy of Them Poems by Mason Williams as a Christmas gift from very dear friends. Anyone who knows me knows that a chapbook of poetry is my all time favorite gift.
I remembered Mason Williams classic hit “Classical Gas” which won him numerous awards including three Grammy’s. I always loved that song. I did not however know much about him other than that tune. As it turns out he is also an accomplished writer and poet with numerous books under his belt including Them Poems. Originally from Abilene, Texas he now resides in Oregon and when not writing or composing you can find him fly-fishing. He was also the comedy writer for the Smothers’ Brother’s comedy show.
Them Poems is a witty, hip and creatively composed book of traditional style poetry with a hint of sarcasm, true humor and intricately detailed well thought out verse in creative succession. The poems will hit you like a ton of bricks and keep you in stitches afterward. His talent is unmatched in this genre. I’ve read many a poet who although can write humor do not employ the inner funny bone needed to pull off this type of poetry. He does it with sass and a drop of class.
The following poem which is included in the book was inspired by some children playing with sand on a beach.
Them Sand Pickers
How about Them Sand Pickers
Ain’t they grand?
Sittin on their haunches,
Pickin’ in the sand.
Pickin’ in the wet sand,
Pickin’ in the dry.
Pickin’ it fiercely,
Look at it fly.
Look at Them Sand Pickers,
Ain’t they slick?
Some use they fingers,
Some use a stick.
Them seashore Sand Pickers,
Ain’t they fine?
Sittin’ in the sand,
Pickin’ up time.
How to be a Sand Picker?
Don’t need a ticket.
Find a bunch of sand,
Skootch down and pick it!
From: Them Poems ISBN 1-893311-11-2
For more information visit the Mason Williams Website.
Humor in poetry, good humor that is, is hard to come by. That poem was adorable though!
And you’ve been nominated for my Lemonade Award!
I love the poem and want to read up more on this Author. It’s lovely to get a fift you really iisn’t it?
Justin - I fell in love with the poetry. I had never read it prior to receiving the book.
justjessi - It is hard to come by good humor poetry so this was a treat. Thanks so much for the award as well.
Yan - It is wonderful to receive gifts you love. Thanks my friend.