Last Saturday was a fantastic day. England lost at rugby, and I had a row with a close friend. It was still a fantastic day for me.
On my way to meet my mate to watch the horrible rugby game, I spotted someone very familiar to me. Not just recognisable, but somebody I knew immediately. Someone I have always known, almost like a relative. That connection in a crowd was instant. I could almost have believed he knew it too. As I had already caught his eye when he was just in front of me I said 'Ray' ? He grinned a bit and nodded - right then I felt the positive paroxysm of life explode in me. Completely unexpected, but suddenly there I was - standing face to face with Ray Highsmith. One of my very few hero's. One of the few people who I identify with and who articulate my thoughts, feelings, and anxiety so completely. I then said 'Are you Ray Davies?' - and he said smiled and said 'yes'. It was so unexpected but I was bursting with things to say - and couldn't manage any of them. He stopped to shake my hand but he was not interested in staying for a conversation. He kept looking around because he clearly did not want any attention. Not in the least. Nobody on the street had a clue. They must have thought he is either an old friend of mine or someone famous they just didn't know. Too many things went racing through my head and I came across looking like a duffer. Not the impression I would have liked to have made at all. I feel bad about that. He was kind enough to shake my hand, asked my name, where I was from etc. I didn't want to intrude and told him 'sorry, don't mean to interrupt or intrude at all', and he just smiled and said 'take care' and waved, - as he walked away. Truly a genuinely nice guy. Although I did not make the best impression I could clearly see he was uncomfortable and I completely backed away and let him get on his way. I thought that was decent of me anyway, regardless.
When I decided to write this post it occurred to me 'Destroyer' describes exactly what I was trying to say in the previous post. Words and music, it is a near perfect reflection. I identify with Ray a lot. I identify with his manic depressive despair, his perseverance and steadfastness. His love and hopes for those of us lucky enough to perceive them. I struggle with many of the same things he does. A lot of his work is a true reflection of me too. Not always identical, but almost always in part. In large part.
Take good care too Ray. My only hope is to try this again. Since we're old friends now, why not post a comment. We're in easy reach of each other after all.
