Natalie Merchant’s singing career spans nearly three decades. Whether you remember her from the 10,000 Maniacs or from her solo work, you will likely enjoy Merchant’s new album, Leave Your Sleep, a fascinating and diverse collection of poems set to music in true Merchant’s unique creative style.
The album is an examination of life, centering on the themes of motherhood and childhood. Enjoy her presentation, filmed at TED2010:
Merchant played at a small concert I had the good fortune to attend while at the University of Michigan. Her emotionally nuanced music and voice inspired self-reflection in a way that poetry does. If you have another moment, NPR recorded a wonderful piece on her on Morning Edition several days ago. You can find it here: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=125857459.
As a father, I ca’t help but marvel at the wonders of childhood and motherhood. The innocence, the love, the tenderness, the warmth and inspiration. It is a precious sight to behold!
Mothers are among the fiercest creatures on earth when their cub is threatened, the toughest on earth when the safety of their cub is in question and the gentlest on earth when their cub is in need of a hug. Motherhood is an enormous responsibility and a sacred privilege.
Children, on the other hand, are (as they say in the Midwest) a “hoot.” A parent’s greatest hope is to have children that live to their fullest potential. For some that may mean that they excel in every aspect – in education, in achievement, in humor and in love. For others it might mean that they make the best use of their capacities. Children can be the funniest thing on earth, the sweetest thing on earth and the most charming thing on the planet. Childhood can and should be a time of exploration, discovery and growth – physical, mental and spiritual.
Each one of us has a mother to thank for giving us the opportunity of life. No matter what your mother provided or didn’t following your birth, you can be thankful for at least that fact. You have the privilege of adding value to the world around you.
People never cease to amaze me. The more you get to know people the more you begin to see their unique capacity for the expression of creative expression. Hidden talents abound. You can, if you so choose, give stage to the creative genius in those around you.
Whether you are a mother or a child, or were one or both, I encourage you to see the world as a mother sees a newborn child: with love, tenderness and hope for the future. Thank you, Natalie Merchant, for your inspiring new album!
Gregory Hake 
Children are indeed beautiful and I recall seeing my first nephew born 23 years ago yesterday. What a miracle birth is and what a joy it has been to see him grow up and mature into a strong young man. I had the opportunity to care for him, on occasion, as we’d play ‘airplane’ as I’d spin his toddler body over my head as would giggle always wanting more. He is now studying to become a commercial pilot and as I see him and the youth of today faced with the future, I also see its hope and promise it holds in each sweet individual expression .
Thank you!
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I heard this years ago. I don’t know who said it but I’m certain she was a mother because I know this is true.
“Making the decision to have a child is momentous. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body.”
It causes vulnerability, it cultivates compassion and if you haven’t developed empathy I guarantee you will.
Exquisite music, soulfully sang and genuinely appreciated. Love your blog, thank you.
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I loved Natalie’s music. The intensity and life she brought to each poem is a gift to the poet and their enthusiasts as well.
Thanks for highlighting her beautiful contribution to the arts.
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Good morning gregg – and thank you. My boys even at their most extreme are the greatest gift that I could have ever wished for. It simply stops me in my tracks at times. I never understood that the capacity to love could be so boundless – and that everyday I learn something new that I get to appreciate. (Quite often AFTER I put them to bed – and actually have time to breathe and reflect!) What an amazing thing it is to be a mother. But – you’re right – don’t cross Momma bear (Just ask my insurance company) I once jokingly stated that “I would live under a bridge if it meant that my children were happy” Interestingly, I feel like we very nearly are right now – but I can’t explain in words how truly happy and content we are. (My oldest actually asked me if we had to rebuild the house … he wants to live in this 600 square foot apt forever! oh my. But it truly gives me pause – and makes me remember what is truly important to them. (Not what I think should be important)
Just this morning Connor (my seven yr old) addressed his entire school at assembly to voice out loud what his gifts are and what he brings to the world. They call it “Serving with a heart like Jesus” (1 child from each class gets chosen every Friday) As I videotaped him enthusiastically and energetically stand at the podium with the microphone I got to hear first hand what he values the most. Being a good friend – a loving brother and son – bring a great reader – and being able to do everything in life “Enthusiastically and energetically” (Oh boy – he does – but he knows it and appreciates it.) What a gift.
I’m very much looking forward to the new Natalie Merchant CD. Thanks for making me aware of it. Happy day.
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It’s funny what children appreciate, isn’t it? Thanks for your comment and have a great one!
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