A collection of delightful and varied poetry, inspired by Mozart, both in his life and in his music.

by Juliana Brandon

I am one of many,
locked between his melodies,
squished in the precision
of his counterpoint;
we must listen,
and listen
to be free.
A boyish kind of death
taints his harmonies,
smirking and prancing,
daring us
to leave anything
so celestial behind.
But we try!
We sculpt music,
build music,
paint music,
cook music!
We splatter ourselves
with music,
so when we roll over
there's an imprint
in his dust.

by Cheryl W Duval

(A six-year-old's point of view)

I've played the klavier since I was three,
The violin since I was five.
I played for mama, Papa, sister Nann'rl;
Maybe half the folk alive!
When I turned six, they said
"It's time for Woferl to go
and show the world what he can do,"
And I've had far to go!

I'm called allkinds of silly things,
"Wonderchild" and "Little Wizard" --
As if I'm not a boy at all,
But some kindof singing lizard.
One man believed I was a dwarf
Whowore a magic ring!
How can they be so stupid
As to think up such a thing?

Some things are nice,of course --
Don't have to go to schools;
Don't have to face a teacher
With a lot of boring rules.
I've been to places other kids
Can only dream about,
And play with princes,dukes and kings
And other folks with clout.
They give me presents,trinkets,
chocolates, lots of nifty stuff,
(Though sometimes I think Papa
Feels it isn't quite enough).

It wouldn't be so bad, I guess,
If could change some things--
Like standing 'round for hours
And left waiting in the wings
Of royal parlors, chamber halls,
And having to act "just right"
In wigs that itch and shoes that pinch
And pants that fit too tight.
I love my music, but I'd say
This ain't what it's all about!
So, someday I'll take my music sheets
And tell 'em all, "Get out!"

"Notes of a Mozart Obsessive" is the exclusive property of Juliana Brandon, and is not to be reprinted without her written permission.
"Wunderkind" was originally published in "Faded Roses Issue 3", and is the exclusive property of Cheryl W. Duval, and is not to be reprinted without her written permission.