Short Stories.

I have a soft spot for songs that tell a complete story in around three minutes: A Boy Named Sue, Harper Valley PTA, Leader of the Pack, In The Ghetto and Stan are particularly good examples. However, with The Gambler, Coward of the County and of course, Lucille, Kenny Rogers is probably king of the short story song. It takes enormous skill to convey a great deal of information in a small number of words and my favourite super-short story goes like this: “Careful, honey, it’s loaded”, he said, re-entering the bedroom. Her back rested against the headboard. “This for your wife?” “No, too risky. I’m hiring a professional” “How about me?” He just smirked, “Who’d be daft enough to hire a female hit man?” She smiled and pointed the gun at him, “Your wife”.