A THEME SONG
After much reflection and anguish, I am suggesting a theme song for our legislature, the Iowa legislature in its current manifestation. The idea of a theme song with which our legislators can identify should have been accomplished several years ago, but either a lack of imagination or inertia has caused the delay in finding such a symbol for such a distinguished group of individuals engaged in the public business.
As I said, after much reflection and anguish, I am introducing a suggested theme song: Jerry Jeff Walker's "Pissin' in the Wind". To me, it captures the essence of our current legislature and I am putting this idea forward for further comment. One should always be willing to debate any suggestion of a theme song, even those to whom it is not directed should be able to comment on the appropriateness of a particular tune to reflect such an august body of Iowans.
Now for those not familiar with either Jerry Jeff Walker or Pissin' in the Wind, one can find most of his songs on You Tube which I direct anyone interested to for edification. Jeffy Jeff popularized London Homesick Blues and produced Red Neck Mother which made an immediate impact on the vocabulary of America. Having a song by Jerry Jeff as a symbol of our legislative body would do credit to both our legislators and Jeffy Jeff.
A symbol is a shortcut - - a shortcut to the nub of an idea, a method of understanding by osmosis; it doesn't require thought which as we all know is in short supply. And as a shortcut, it can be very usefully utilized by almost anyone. "Hey, the 'Pissin' in the Wind'" guys are at it again! What more does one need to understand the activities of the group so symbolized? None, it says it all in one phrase.
I realize that there may be dissenting voices and I'm more than willing to discuss the issue if discussion is suggested by anyone dissenting. But, I would suggest in advance that they have any arguments against "Pissin' in the Wind" as a theme song for our Iowa legislature thought out before the discussion commences. Simply saying you don't like the idea isn't going to get it. What we will need are specifics, such as how the song "Pissin' in the Wind" does not precisely fit; or, what alternative might you suggest, if any.
I am fairly confident that I have found the perfect symbol for our legislature. The suggestions for new laws and the enactment of them reinforce the idea daily. I can just see them now standing on the statehouse steps facing the gale.
Richard E H Phelps II
Mingo
