To the editor: I used to be saddened by the information of Neil Sedaka’s loss of life, however much more so by the tributes and obituaries during which his best music (in my view) was not talked about (“Neil Sedaka, songwriter and hitmaker over multiple generations, dies at 86,” Feb. 27). “The Immigrant,” launched in 1974, opens with these lyrics:
Harbors opened their arms to the younger looking foreigner
Come to dwell within the gentle of the beacon of liberty.
Wow, have occasions modified. Now we’re the beacon of corruption, greed and hate.
I believe we’d do nicely to recollect Sedaka’s refrain too:
There was a time when strangers have been welcome right here.
Music would play, they inform me the times have been candy and clear.
It was a sweeter tune and there was a lot room that individuals may come from all over the place.
The tune was as inspiring as his phrases. RIP Neil Sedaka and the American dream.
Liz White, Los Angeles
