musical prosody

[Paul Mackin]

On Sat, 26 Jun 1999, Mark Wright AIA wrote:

> Howdy:
> 
> My limited knowledge of "American Standard" songs has always been an
> obstacle to full appreciation of Pynchon's 'nitwit little tunes'.  I
> would appreciate it very much if someone who recognizes the metrical
> sources for these things could post titles, artists, etc., as we go
> through the text, that I (and I'm sure others) may follow u.p.up.


I may be showing my lack of attention but it never seemed to me the
'nitwit little tunes' ARE based on standards (at least not American
standards of the 20s, 30s and 40s) except very occasionally. When they
are, the original jumps immediately out at virtually anyone of my
generation, for example Bye Bye Blackbird on p.61. There probably are
identifiable metrical sources for many others but these are more
difficult.

I will try to be on the lookout from now on. I rather think however that
the standards of GR will all have been pointed out in the Companion.
Perhaps I can have a look. 

			P.