Picture of Michael Henry Martin examining sheet music

May 2022: Picnic and Song Writing

Picture of Michael Henry Martin of Abilene examining sheet music
Michael Henry Martin of Abilene examines sheet music. Picture by Ruth York

Cisco Writers Club held its annual picnic  Thursday, May 5, 2022, at the Assembly of Yahweh Fellowship Hall, ten miles south of Cisco. Everyone was invited. There was no charge. 

Songwriting was the evening’s topic, with a variety of local songwriters including Ruth Stewart, Chuck and Melissa Henry and Ruth York of Cisco, and Walter Williams of Eastland sharing  methods, inspiration and samples of their work. Dr. Duane Hale of Cisco and J.V. Lewis of Eastland added a cappella performances of traditional songs — Dr. Hales’ in Navajo! 

Songwriting is one of many special forms of writing. It obviously depends on music, not just as a delivery vehicle, but as an integral part of the piece. It’s poetic in nature, meaning it demands compact, vivid imagery and emotional impact. 

Members and guests enjoyed a light supper followed by the stories, the inspiration and the craftsmanship of songwriting. The format was very informal and ‘unplugged.’ CWC members provided salads, sandwiches, sides and desserts to sustain ourselves and our musician friends.