Poetry Place Collected Poems

On Playing the Piano at Age 68

On Playing the Piano at age 68

When I was a young man
I wanted to be a composer
And went to the Oberlin Conservatory
For one semester,
But failed in my musical endeavors.

But I still loved playing the piano
And had a piano for many years
In my late 50s and 60s
Did not play,

But I bought a piano
A few years ago
And have been playing daily
Now for almost two years.

All part of my daily
Mental health care.

Now I am getting better
Playing the blues
Bach, and classical music
Played over 600 pieces
So far.

I will never be
Professional
But that is okay.

Playing the piano
Is a great pastime
For anyone.

Particularly for those
Getting older in life.

All part of my daily
Mental health care.

Playing the piano
Studying languages every day
Writing poetry and short stories
All are important

To keep
The dreaded Alzheimer’s
And dementia at bay.

ASSIGNMENT: Write 10 to 15 lines of poetry about one of your favorite pastimes.


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