I have been a bit frozen, not really able to write anything
about the passing of my favorite writer/artist/techno-mage. Everyone else has
been able to express such deep-felt sorrow. The week after Ric’s death, I went
and mourned with strangers on a dance floor and with friends as I played
records. [So many songs played Friday the 20th, yet so many songs
were not played. Ric’s songwriting was so prolific, I barely played any of his
solo albums.] I read so many articles, including one that asked, “Am I mourning
Ric Ocasek? Or my lost youth?” [The answer, of course, is both!]
The Cars (and Ric’s) music had been a cohesive force in my
life. [For example, “It’s All Mixed Up” perfectly described all 10-year-old me witnessed
going on with my parents.] Ric’s lyrics helped me make sense of the world, and
myself. His writing helped me find my own voice; his music helped me express
different facets of my personality. When I was a young mom with no social life,
“meeting” people online became a wonderful way to make friends, share ideas,
and learn new things. Maybe in some way, I had let go a bit after seeing The
Cars at First Avenue May 2011. Seeing my favorite band at my favorite venue was
surreal, beautiful and healing.
On and off these last 2 weeks, I’ve been in a dull funk. It
felt like a door permanently shut behind me when I heard the news. I’ve had
little nudges like this before, but this is all I could think: It’s time to
move forward (or get out of the way). It’s time to express my art, share my
soul with others. No more hiding in the shadows. What an overwhelming feeling.
Yet, we all need to step forward, and do what we’re meant
to do. To live our best life, to be kind, to be true to our souls, to encourage
and help others in their creativity and self-expression. What else could be a
better tribute to Ric Ocasek?
Thank you Ric: for sharing your songs, and your talent, as
well as providing an example of how to live a life as an artist. I’m sending so
much love, peace, and healing to his family, friends, and to the people in his
life. Us fans, we have the music, and the inspiration; nothing can take that
away.
Rest In Peace, RO.
With much love and respect,
Leora Tozer (aka Deb M)