Keeping cool at the coffeehouse

   "Larson, is that you?"

   I looked up from my notes as I was preparing to speak to the Lilburn Middle School Writers Club.

   "I saw Susan Larson on the program, but last time I saw you, you dressed like a hippie."

   Well, Gail Ringenwald," I said, "twelve years ago, you didn't exactly look like Mary Middleclass yourself."

   "Well, yeah,' she said, looking down at her lapels, "but I'll tell you what. In two weeks we're having a coffeehouse here. The lights will be low, the kids will read their poetry and we can dress like hippies together."

   Before going to the coffeehouse, I went through my 60's garb, but thought, no, I have a new image to uphold. So I threw on a black turtleneck. I was more of a beatnik than a hippie anyway.

   As I found my way through the dimly lit cafeteria, there was the aroma of coffee. There was gourmet pastry. And there was Ringenwald wearing a black turtleneck and beret.

   Before I could make a flippant remark she said, "I realized whatever I put on this morning I'd have to wear all day. Besides, I was more of a beatnik than a hippie anyway.

   OK, enough about us. Let me tell you about the kids.

   The evening was actually a blend of a coffeehouse and talent show with poetry, song and dance. And teachers led the audience in finger snapping in lieu of applause.

   During intermission, School Board representative Louise Radloff took the stage. She commended the performers for their talent and leadership skills and noted the importance of the arts in education. Fingers snapped. Of their poetry, which was insightful and optimistic she said, "It tells me you have a better understanding than adults give you credit for." Fingers snapped.

   The highlight of the evening came in the next act. Remember when I wrote about missing my chance to write about Diana DiGarmo when she was 14? Well, another 14-year-old awed me this time. 

   As a young lady in a silk flowered dress started to read a poem, Ringenwald nudged me.

   "Caitlyn Martin. Too bad she's not singing. She wowed everyone with "Summertime" at our Black History Festival."

   When the finger snapping stop, Caitlyn stayed onstage and surprised us by singing "All the Way" a cappella. She didn't miss a note. She didn't miss a beat. When she finished, we all forgot to snap. Instead, we clapped. And cheered. And I got to hear her-and write about her- before she makes the big time. 
Teacher Joy Fors concluded by affirming Radloff's remarks about the students' leadership skills.

   I looked back on the evening. The decorations were groovy. The poetry was far out. But everyone's clothing was off the rack in 2004. Everyone but two women in beatnik costumes, that is. 

   Next year I'm following the kids' lead. Instead of trying to be cool, I'm going to just chill. 

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