Shannon’s Perspective:
“In the pool halls, the hustlers and the losers
Used to watch 'em through the glass”
I have always enjoyed Bob Seger, but I had no idea that Larry would change the lyrics when he sang it. So tonight, when we danced and I could hear him singing his revised lyrics in my ear, I just chuckled at him. Going forward though I will never be able to sing this song the same.
I have to imagine that anyone who hears this song for the first time today is hitting their politically incorrect speed dial. And I'm not saying the way the subject matter is presented isn't uncomfortable. But what I will say is that I have barely walked in my own shoes through life, so I'm not close-minded to how different experiences in life are presented. And this was released in 1976, so there's that.
When we danced to this song tonight, Shannon learned for the first time how I really "hear" this song (which is fantastic that we are still learning things about each other...even after 30+ years).
In my mind, I always substitute the words "Flat Prep" for Main Street. That was the area I worked in and watched Shannon go to break or leave for the evening (before I even knew her name). Again, her friend totally busted me.
And just think, if you hear this song once, or any song for that matter, and throw it away for whatever reason, you may just miss an opportunity to bring back some great personal memories.
"Sometimes even now
When I'm feelin' lonely and beat
I drift back in time and I find my feet
Down on Main Street in Flat Prep"
Ghost of a Chance 