Fantasy Island

Hearing loss and not being able to share the enjoyment of music.

I’ve mentioned that not being able to share with Sue has lessened my enjoyment of music. Well, it hasn’t improved and I have a dilemma on my doorstep.

If I wanted to impress with the sophistication of my musical taste, I’d say my ultimate audience experience would be to have seen Maria Callas perform ‘Un Bel Di’ from Butterfly. Sue adored it and Ms Callas’ voice chokes me up. Honestly though, Springsteen, The E Streeters (alas no Clarence) and ‘Born to Run’ stirs my blood and raises my spirits like nothing else.

Would I go to Springsteen live having put it off for so many years? Tough question as he’s appearing at the Isle of Wight Festival and from the lounge window I can see the rain clouds scudding across the Island. The ticket price is way more than I’d feel comfortable paying in the present financial situation, so I’m saying no to those who ask if I’m going.

But the major factor is still that I would feel horrible telling Sue, or any hearing impaired person, of the wonderful time I had listening to a live concert; how the experience was (as I’m sure it would be) better than I’d imagined. This is my hang up, I promise I’m not seeking sympathy or understanding and not being a martyr.

Sue would be happy for me to go, but sharing is important for me and not being able to share the enjoyment would detract too much. Sue still recalls ecstatically grabbing Martin Kemp’s shoelaces at a Spandau Ballet gig (never understood that), so she knows how great live music is. But I think I’ll open the window and hope for a strong South Wind.