I love this tune from James Moody. It’s bright, bouncy and surprising. This is just three minutes of fun. I don’t know anything about the history of the song or the place called Overbrook (although I think Wilt Chamberlain went to an Overbrook High) or even James Moody himself.  The music has always caused me to envision this track as a celebration of an amazing night out. Moody takes the last train because you’d want to linger as much as possible on a night like this one!

 

The title though brought to mind something entirely different though, likely caused by the demise of Central State Hospital near the West Indianapolis neighborhood my grandparents lived in for decades. I began contemplating what it might mean to be on the last train from a place called Overbrook that had a purpose similar to that of Central State; caring for people battling mentally illness.  

 

This poem is the result.

 

                                                                    

The Last Train from Overbrook

 

 

The last train from Overbrook is leaving today

I suppose it’s about time

But this has come to feel like home to me

 

My tiny windows give me just enough light

To see the stream across the bridge;

This really is a gorgeous view

I know that Dr. Baylor was right, now

Rest and some down time made the difference

Thankfully everything is fine

 

This winter will be wonderful

I already can sense it, now that I’m well

The snowy days will be peaceful

With laughing kids reminding me of my own childhood

Not like last year’s taunting jeers

 

And Christmas, wow,

I can’t wait for Christmas

Even though I won’t buy any presents

It will still be thrilling

Maybe I’ll go out some night

Just looking at the store windows and houses

Decked out so lavishly

 

My apartment will be nice

With so many little things that I like

Some books, my pipe

Maybe a couple pictures too

Not the sad kind that make me feel lonely

But happy laughing photos

Filling frames and space

Some with people I used to know

 

The last train from Overbrook is leaving today

I know it’s just about time

To trade a home for home

 

 

 

© Gayle Force Press 2014

 

 

• Music
• Poetry