A Few Good Mementos

For the past academic year, I have been a part of VoiceStream, a co-ed college a cappella group. My experiences there are inextricably linked to my acclimatisation to American social dynamics and hygiene habits, so I come away with mixed emotions. As with any intense relationship, it is the fight to maintain or generate real or imaginary pleasure that ultimately destroys it. So it has been for me, with women and musical groups. The dogged determination, inimitable talent and genuine friendships will stay with me after the music has faded, but rosy nostalgia will be marred by the memory of infrequent but regular clashes with the equally strong ego of the musical director.

Our final concert was this Sunday. To attuned viewers, our mutual respect for each other was silently and strongly communicated as we held the songs between us. A wonderful show left the audience standing in place, watching as parting and returning members embraced on stage, our larger-than-life silhouettes cast behind on the screen seeming to acknowledge the gravity of the moment.