Hymnody and parody
Last night I spoke to a “Theology on Tap” group in Brooklyn on the topic of “Religion and Politics.” You dotCommonweal readers will not be surprised to hear that I did my best to convince those in attendance to subscribe to our fine magazine — and to visit us online (hello there, Brooklynites!).
Among those who were kind enough to come and listen to me was a man named Patrick, who identified himself as the proprietor of a blog called “Making Light.” He told me that, having seen my name in a notice about the talk, he’d Googled me and found a humor piece I wrote for McSweeney’s some years ago: a list of “Rejected Titles for Hymns.” (You will find that it is irreverent and immature and probably very much beneath your dignity. If that’s OK with you, go on and click.)
If you find that amusing, I recommend heading over to “Making Light,” where Patrick has challenged his commenters to compose hymn texts to go with my titles. They have risen to the challenge, and have proven themselves a dauntingly talented group (not to mention intimately acquainted with the ins and outs of worship music). The hymns they’ve composed have exceeded all my expectations, and have found far more humor potential in my suggestions than I have any right to take credit for. Their compositions are generally affectionate, occasionally biting, and thoroughly hilarious. A few have even managed to turn my silly joking into something approaching insight. My applause and admiration to all.
I’ll accept further submissions here, if you’re feeling inspired. (I am not accepting disapproving remarks about my irreverence and/or lack of wit. Please phrase your disdain in the form of a silent prayer for my soul. Thank you.)
Mollie – I love it. While studying in the seminary, we had parties at least every quarter and a standing act was – “Top Ten Liturgical Hits”……like these folks, had classmates and friends who could compose on the spot and some of their stuff was side-splitting; yes, irreverent; unholy; but funny!
Some of the efforts on the Making Light blog are really, really good.
Another variation is to rewrite real songs, e.g. “One Bed, Two Bodies”
Theology on Tap? Mollie, that is news. I thought speakers had to be approved by the diocese or other leaning right groups. I know the young people are not necessarily of any persuasion as most are out for a social evening seeking new friends and the like. Yet every speaker I have seen was pretty orthodox. Just goes to show one never knows….
Mollie, thanks! I have been sharing this liberally. C’weal speakers used to come to East Lansing’s St. John Student Parish. I missed them this year.
Bill, are you implying that the diocese would object to little old me? I assure you I was on my most orthodox behavior.