Oh I invented the sixties
and most of the seventies too.
I don’t remember you being there,
only my account is true.
I managed to start the student unrest,
put an end to the Vietnam war.
I invented free love and the Beatles!
You’d think that’s enough – but there’s more!
I booked up and paid for the Royal Albert Hall,
and invited the writers to come,
In fact I built the building,
and I ignited the sun.
Oh I invented the sixties
and most of the seventies too.
Please let me have a reading –
I’ll publish you if you do.
It was me invented jazz poetry,
in fact jazz and rock’n’roll too!
If I hadn’t recited my poems
it would still be 1962.
I started Pink Floyd and the Soft Machine,
founded each and every small press.
I knew Mick Jagger, Ginsberg and Miles,
I introduced Herman to Hesse.
Oh I invented the sixties
and most of the seventies too.
Please publish my Collected Poems,
you’ll make millions if you do.
I am a famous writer,
a famous artist too.
In fact when I get paid for it
there’s nothing I can’t do.
I am god and like all gods
you mustn’t take my name in vain.
You must owe me a favour,
to me you own your fame.
Oh I invented the sixties
and most of the seventies too.
I’m busy creating the future –
making a buck or two.
Jah Crooklok
Illustration Nick Victor