As Furniture
The sounds of the piano are contained within the cabinet, streamlined and contoured to maximize the tones of the strings. But not everyone enjoys a piano for the potential of its song. Some bring the piano into their homes because a piano, whether upright or grand or classical, can also serve as a furnishing alongside lamps, sofas and works of art.
The piano is, in many ways, utilitarian. It stands alone, and yet it can be complemented by natural wood and a tall vase of freshly picked flowers. The piano is a thing of beauty in its own right, and piano makers have wisely spent time burnishing the wood and polishing the finish to a high gloss so that they can be sold on the streets to people who are building homes and lounges and entertainment centers. Regardless of whether a person ever sits at the bench to work the peddles, the piano offers angles and the imposing heft of its frame.
Like most furniture, the piano defies movement once it is dropped into place. The piano "sits" on its haunches. It looms. There is no missing it in the room. And once flushed against the wall or situated in the middle of the great room, it demands respect. Children are not allowed to play on it or pound it. Guests admire it. Momma dusts it with pledge.
Years later, relatives gather around the piano to cast lots for its removal. A crew is hired. Young guns. And the piano is replaced with something lighter, such as a love seat. The old folks wonder: what were we thinking when we bought it?
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