OK, here's one I don't think I've heard anyone mention: "Night Swimming," by R.E.M., from _Automatic for the People_. Interestingly, one of my first reactions to this song back in the mid-90's was, "Hmmm . . . that would be an interesting one to play at my memorial service!" (although I hasten to reassure you all that I wasn't thinking then, nor am I now, that said service will be taking place anytime soon!).
It's been a while since I heard it. My recollection is that a line or two, or maybe an entire verse, wouldn't really fit. Still, I think it struck me in the way it did because: 1) I'm an unrepetent night owl; 2) I love to swim; 3) the music has a stately quality about it, and 4) the song seems to be about a gentle encounter with life with no barriers and no holds barred on the part of the singer (swimmer!). Now, if I were to get serious about this planning business, I'd probably have some jazz and classical. Maybe some country, for the sheer fun of it. Perhaps even some Joni. But the last, for me, would almost be like taking touristy photographs in my old neighborhood in Madrid when I lived there for nine months. I never thought to do it because those streets were so very much a part of me that having an external record of them seemed superfluous. I've regretted that rash decision since! Mary P.
