I WILL NOT DANCE, Episode 02 – Rhythms and Sounds

Written and Narrated by William E. Spear
Produced by The Three Fifty-seven
14 May 2024

(Cold open)

The Three Fifty-seven offers a commemoration to those individuals who died while serving the country.

My name is William Spear and this series is titled I WILL NOT DANCE. Over four episodes, an Unnamed Service Personnel will tell of leaving family and dying in battle.

The events are set in the Second World War, and the Narrator is from New Jersey, U.S.A. However, the story could be told of any conflict and the warrior could be from any country.

Previously, the Unnamed Service Personnel celebrated a family wedding and shared glimpses of heritage back in County Cavan in Ireland.

And received a draft notice to join the military.

This time, the Narrator reacts to the notice and the prospect of leaving family. Listen to Episode Two titled RHYTHMS AND SOUNDS.

(Theme for I WILL NOT DANCE comes up and goes under)

The wedding celebration had barely stopped ringing
In our ears and our aching heads when my notice came.
Report to the nearest recruiting office! At Once!
Uncle Sam wants you!

But Uncle Sam’s haste did not stop me from embracing
Family and Friends ’round the city. From the youngest
To most senior, our neighborhoods sparkled with laughter
And glit’tring eyes.

Songs, too, were sung. G.I. JIVE. SUNRISE SERENADE. MY
BROKEN HEART. THE RATION BLUES. Which, by the way, neither
Slowed nor stopped vibrant, rich tapestries of aromas.
Senses were thrilled.

Savored, too, was Jersey City’s gray landscapes. Steaming
Breaths in air floated and sidewalks crunch’d from chilled temp’tures.
Solo excursions captured the abundance of home.
Oh, the riches.

But soon, the pattern of days and nights dwindled. Barely
A few remained. Celebrations roared of unspoken
Worries. Music? Fell quiet. Food? Lacked flavor. Weather?
A north wind blew.

The time had come . . . I was now Uncle Sam’s.

(Theme for I WILL NOT DANCE comes up and goes under)

That was Episode Two titled RHYTHMS AND SOUNDS. It was written and narrated by William Spear.

Music was through the courtesy of Serge Pavkin.

The series I WILL NOT DANCE was produced by The Three Fifty-seven.

Thank you for listening.

WESJr