[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 147 (2001), Part 12] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page 16863] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]IN MEMORY OF MR. JOE DARION ______ HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH of ohio in the house of representatives Tuesday, September 11, 2001 Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of a man who inspired the American people with beautiful song, Mr. Joe Darion, lyricist of ``Man of La Mancha.'' Born in New York City in 1911, Mr. Darion worked throughout his life in every genre of music from popular songs to opera. Mr. Darion attended City College before serving his nation in World War II. In the early 1950's he had three Top-10 hits; the Patti Page ballad ``Changing Partners'', the Teresa Brewer novelty ``Ricochet'', and Red Buttons' comedy hit ``The Ho Ho Song''. Mr. Joe Darion is most known for his beautiful lyrics of ``The Impossible Dream,'' which quickly became one of the most beloved pop anthems of our time. ``Man of La Mancha'' opened in New York in 1956 and ran for an incredible 2,328 performances. In recognition of his heart-warming lyrics, Mr. Darion was rewarded a Tony Award for best score. ``The Impossible Dream'' has affected thousands of people, young and old. His lyrics have inspired and touched countless Americans. His words dive deep into the human soul and character. His words, ``To dream the impossible dream, To fight the unbeatable foe, to bear with unbearable sorrow, To run where the brave dare not go. To right the unrightable wrong, To love pure and chaste from afar, To try when your arms are too weary, To reach the unreachable star. This is my quest, To follow that star---- No matter how hopeless, no matter how far. To fight for the right Without question or pause, To be willing to march into hell For a heavenly cause. And I know if I'll only be true To this glorious quest That my heart will be peaceful and calm When I'm laid to my rest. And the world will be better for this, That one man scorned and covered with scars still strove with his last ounce of courage. To reach the unreachable stars.'' Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring the memory of a man who touched millions of Americans with his inspiring lyrics and, enabled countless people everywhere to ``Dream the Impossible Dream'', Mr. Joe Darion. ____________________