Sunday, January 15, 2006

The Hokey Cokey (or Pokey)

One of the defining televisual moments of last year for me was seeing Bill Bailey doing the Hokey Cokey in German, in the musical/interpretive style of the art band Kraftwerk (with assistance). I had thought it was the most profound interpretation of this song possible, until the following was referenced on "Word of Mouth" on Radio 4 tonight.

It is from the Washington Post Style Invitational contest that asked readers to submit "instructions" for something, written in the style of a famous person. The winning entry was The Hokey Pokey (as written by William Shakespeare).
O proud left foot, that ventures quick within
Then soon upon a backward journey lithe.
Anon, once more the gesture, then begin:
Command sinistral pedestal to writhe.
Commence thou then the fervid Hokey-Poke,
A mad gyration, hips in wanton swirl.
To spin! A wilde release from Heavens yoke.
Blessed dervish! Surely canst go, girl.
The Hoke, the poke -- banish now thy doubt
Verily, I say, 'tis what it's all about.
-- by "William Shakespeare"
This was apparently discovered by Jeff Brechlin, Maryland, and submitted by Katherine St. John.