Reunion
In memory of David Crosby
Eloise had followed Crosby Stills and Nash since before they were Crosby Stills and Nash. She had loved the music each had made with their earlier bands and was even more enthralled with the songs they wrote and harmonies they created with their music together. It was one of the few joys in an otherwise difficult life.
She had been pushed into a loveless marriage by her parents who only saw financial stability in Ron. They hadn’t acknowledged his cruelty or infidelities. And Eloise, ever the dutiful daughter, had put up with both, dreaming of a world in which the lyrics of “Our House” might be true for her.
So when the band broke up for a final and permanent time in 2016, Eloise was heartbroken. She had gone through her own breakup the year before, finally freeing herself from Ron. She understood the bitterness between the band members. But part of her always hoped they’d reunite for one last gig. She promised herself she would be there, whatever it took.
Then, the impossible happened. At least, it had been impossible in Eloise’s mind. David Crosby died. She marked the date: January 18, 2023. Crosby Stills and Nash were truly and irrevocably done. She didn’t count Neil Young, though she liked him as well. He hadn’t been one of her original three.
Determined that she would have her concert in Crosby’s honor, she lit candles around her living room, turned out the lights, and kept vigil, playing every one of the band’s albums in order until dawn lit up the sky, revealing her cats—both of them—sitting side by side in her front yard as if to say, “Now everything is easy cause of you.”
Going to the front door to let Davey and Gray in, she knelt to pet them, saying, “Yes, boys. Your namesakes did make life easier for me. And with the two of you, each day is easier than the last.” Happy that she had finally enjoyed one last “concert” from the band that had seen her through so much, Eloise snuffed out the candles and went to bed.
Like Eloise, I’m a long-time fan of both Crosby Stills and Nash and CSNY (the band including Neil Young). I’ve always loved “Our House,” though that’s true of many of their songs.
I created some images the day David Crosby’s death was announced. I’ve had a story percolating, and it’s taken form. I hope you enjoyed “Reunion.”
Here’s a link to “Our House” on YouTube.
💞 Love the story, I'll play some of their music now! Thanks 👍
Good story, I always loved “Our House” as well. Is Neil too political for you? Is that why you don’t like him as much? We used to listen to him on Sundays when I was in the service...we were too stoned to care about his political leanings. I liked CSNY for many other songs too! I’m always reminded of the fact when Dave plays his stations because he listens to older music than me.