Due to education, training and work I missed out on so very much of great music, but had Boys Club with my sons in Las Vegas 12 years ago and heard The Dutchman in a cameo by Bob Shane with the KT George, Bill and Rick. Bob was playing a OM or HD negative Martin. This was another turning point in my life and new friendships forged.
Michael Smith captures the feelings and sadness of reality that befalls some of us as participants on both sides of dementia. Dear Margaret as a loving caregiver, enduring the repetitive, reminders and reassurance, and the Dutchman as the subject.
I was able to check off one of my bucket list items last August as I took take out to Bob and Bobbie Shane and had Indian Food with them. Bob's expressive aphasia from his strokes was less so that day, and his laugh was old time. The words of The Dutchman rings often in my ears.
God Bless Michael on his final trial and may his discomfort be minimal, and know we all are with him as we face the next phase of our existence.
Best to all,
Dee Allred
Steve Goodman's version had more lilt to it, and as it was the first version I ever heard, it colored my singing of it for a long time. Bob's reading was, of course, terrific. Liam Clancy's was much slower and more melancholy, but equally effective.
Added note: I had the pleasure of singing this song with Josh White, Jr., in Mike and Mikey's suite several years ago.
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