I grew up in a town of 7000 population, near where the Appalachian Trail goes through. That town only grew by 1000 people 50 years later. Its 60 miles northwest of New York City. That fact is the only reason I’m not a hill billy or full frontal bumpkin.

The grave in the picture is on the side of a small hill in the Newton Cemetery. My friends and I walked past it every day on our way to the Halsted Street School, our middle school. At this grave, three young children entered a cave opening and were never found – so they entombed it. At least that is the story ….. But I do believe its true.

I have some other pure “American Gothic” stories – about a Scout Master stabbed 20 times by two boys he abused – I lived next to that Scout Masters Step Mother. I can also tell you a story about my Wrestling Coach, and how I was lucky to feel danger and avoid him like the plague. I escaped.

I’ve stumbled on the coolest Americana / Goth YouTube channel. It’s called “Dead Country Radio Show”. After listening to one show I started thinking of my own gothic stories.

Graveyard Stew - Inspired by Jack Kerouac

Graveyard stew
Nothing but bones
Sinew,
No meat,
Makes your stomach groan

Where can a man
Get a square meal?
Something filling,
Something real

Hungry for knowledge,
Thirsty for truth,
America now insane
A hellish graveyard stew

I do feel that after the previous four years and that nothing has happened to the traitors that America has become its own Gothic story and meatless, sinewy graveyard stew.

No more melting pot …..