The passing of Art Cashin, a prominent figure in the world of finance and a beloved character on the floors of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), marks a poignant moment in the annual tradition of reflecting on the year through poetry. For decades, Cashin’s New Year’s poems served as a creative lens through which to view the events that shaped the financial markets and the world at large. With his sons, Arthur and Peter Cashin, stepping into his shoes, they faced the daunting task of honoring their father’s legacy. Their tribute is not just about a cherished family custom; it’s a heartfelt reminder of the personal and collective experiences that define each passing year.
In their homage, titled “Some Other Cashins’ Comments,” the Cashin brothers seamlessly weave together personal memories and significant global events from 2024. This duality captures a universal truth: the synergy between individual lives and the broader historical narrative. The poem reflects on geopolitical tensions, such as the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza and the unpredictability of events surrounding notable figures like Vladimir Putin. These reflections serve as a stark reminder of how closely tied personal experiences are to the world at large. The brothers’ exploration delves into a deep sense of nostalgia, coupled with a somber acknowledgment of how these broader events resonate on a personal level.
The poem is rich with references to significant figures and cultural milestones of the year. From the Paris Olympics to changes in U.S. leadership, every line serves to ground the personal in the political. The mention of musicians, actors, and sports figures who have passed adds a layer of communal grief and remembrance. This narrative technique not only honors the departed but also invites readers to reflect on their connections to these figures and moments. The juxtaposition of loss with the celebration of life reveals the complexities of human experience—where joy and sorrow coexist in an intricate dance, just as they do in Cashin’s traditional work.
Beneath the surface of humor and lightheartedness that characterizes the poem, there lies a profound sense of loss and nostalgia. The acknowledgment of their father not only as a public figure but as a cherished family member emphasizes the personal dimensions of grief. The Cashin brothers invite readers into their world, where they share intimate memories, revealing how their father influenced their lives both as a parent and a professional. They recount fond anecdotes and lessons learned, giving voice to the universal experience of grief while reminding us of the irreplaceable void left by those we love.
As the tradition of the New Year’s poem transitions to a new generation, the Cashin brothers bravely step into the spotlight to lead the annual singing of “Wait ’till the Sun Shines, Nellie.” This act not only preserves their father’s legacy but also signifies the endurance of familial and communal bonds. They usher in a notion that despite loss, life continues, and traditions remain a powerful vessel for remembrance, connection, and hope. The act of closing out the year, ringing the bell at the NYSE, serves as a metaphor for embracing the passage of time: reflecting on the past while looking forward to the future.
The Cashin brothers’ poignant tribute encapsulates the essence of what it means to remember; it reveals a tapestry of lives intertwined through shared experiences. Their reflections extend beyond mere nostalgia, offering a clarion call to cherish those who remain and honor the memories of those who have passed. As they extend their wishes for the New Year—inviting everyone to celebrate the abundance of life—this reinforces the message that amidst uncertainty, love and remembrance provide a lasting legacy. In essence, as Art Cashin’s spirit lives on through his sons and the traditions he cherished, we are reminded of the power of words, poetry, and the bonds that unite us all.