THE TALL MONK
In 1974 I was working for Nat West Bank in
Doncaster and had to pass through what was then known as the Arndale Centre on my way from and to the
bus station . A large , modern shopping mall, the centre was host to all kinds
of colourful people ,some of them buskers , some aspiring to higher concerns.
The Tall Monk definitely fell into the latter
category. His shaved head and orange robe identified him, I believed, to be a
member of the Hare Krishna Temple.
His voice was less heavenly.
As I was rushing homeward , he strode purposely
towards me and in a broad Brummie accent asked“ D'yow want a record ?”…
I didn't really want a record but thanked him
anyway and tried to sidestep him.
With a skill that made me think he may have been
a door to door salesman in a previous incarnation, he seemed to swerve around
me and was again in front.
“ It was produced boy George Harrison …” he went
on.
I was still determined to get home without a
record , but I'd made a big mistake.
I paused long enough for him to continue with “
He plays on it as well … but he didn't want a credit… all for good causes and
ITS FREE…”
I still didn’t really want the record , but as
it was free , I thought if I took it he would let me get on my way … which he
did.
I was only about five paces away from him when
he shouted “ Mowst people give a donation” … I was lost by this stage , I
had the record in my hand and it was all for good causes… I fumbled for my
wallet and offered him a couple of crinkly green notes , which he grabbed
eagerly.
Ten paces further on , he shouted again “ Mowst
people donate five pounds” …
I didn't look back. Eventually I played the
record , which was an amiable collection of Indian music and chants. Pleasant
enough. George Harrison wasn't credited , of course , but if you listened
carefully there's a bit of sitar playing on track 5 that could be George.
Yes , it definitely could be George.That made me
feel better.
