One Word

At my second Pennsic, I had wandered into a tent filled with song and story and light, and sat in a corner to observe. After a while, I saw that anyone wanting to perform could come up and get on the mental list of the host, but when I asked, he informed me it was a long queue, and that several names (of those who had already had several rounds) were ahead of me. I returned to my seat, and watched as big names mysteriously got on the list ahead of me, while their fanclubs name dropped like it was going out of style.

So, I was quite unimpressed. I went out to wander and passed a camp with a small fire, also singing and laughing. I hailed camp and requested to sit and listen, and immediately, they asked my name, offered me food and drink, and asked if I sang. Such an immediate turn around hit me hard, and birthed a loyalty that I still adore today.

In any case, I had one flavor of cider with me that night, but promised to swing by in the morning with the other one for them to sample. In the daylight, my new friends asked more of my background, and when I explained I had started in Dagorhir, not SCA, the oldest in the group said, "Oh, well aren't you glad you've come over to the good side?" Which is what inspired the feeling behind this song.

“Ho there, wanderer! Come sit at our fire,

And rest your weary feet a while.

Tell us of the lands and wonders you’ve seen—

Your bearing carries all your miles.” 

And with pride, she said, “I’m from Pahmoten,”

But their confusion let it slip away,

So she took a moment to search inside herself

For all she meant to convey.

For when she says Pahmoten, she can hear laughter ring,

Shining through the rain and dark is the joy it brings.

It lightens her heart even from afar,

For one word reminds of everything we are.

With words, she painted the mountains, hills, and dales,

In her eyes burned temple braziers.

They could hear the city’s thrum and the rushing river wild,

And the times she wishes she were braver. 

And she opened their eyes to a world of timeless friends,

As loyal as any family,

The calm they brought her and sureness in her step:

The very best of company.

For when we say Pahmoten, think of sunsets in June,

Warm food and tales under a silvery moon,

And when we crawl in bed, there’s a smile on our face.

It may be one word, but it’s never just a place.

So if you find yourself on Pahmoten’s shores,

Come and share a toast with us:

To health and strength and fellowship,

In the sun that shines from above.

For when I say Pahmoten, I can never see the end.

We cherish time together and never is it spent.

Remember the smiles we made, but most of all,

Remember how one word can be your heart’s call.