The world of financial markets and beyond has recently lost a pivotal figure, Art Cashin, whose presence resonated profoundly within the walls of the New York Stock Exchange. As the director of floor operations for UBS, Cashin was not merely a broker; he was a historian, a storyteller, and, above all, a poet. His annual New Year’s poems, a cherished tradition that spanned decades, offered not just a recap of the year’s happenings but a personal touch that entwined finance with life’s grander narrative. With his passing earlier this month, his sons, Arthur III and Peter, have taken it upon themselves to honor their father through a poignant homage that captures the spirit and essence of Art Cashin’s legacy.
In their tribute, the Cashin brothers encapsulated the complexities of 2024—a year punctuated by both global events and personal loss. The opening lines reflect a palpable sense of grief and uncertainty, asking whether the tradition of poetic reflection could continue in their father’s memory. They resolve to carry the torch, albeit with a light-hearted caveat: there would be no reliance on artificial intelligence to craft their tribute. The authenticity of thought and memory stands central to their intentions, symbolizing the core values their father stood for.
As the poem navigates through the highlights of 2024, it paints a vivid picture of a tumultuous world. From the Paris Olympics that faced mishaps, including a ship incident that took out a historical symbol, to the unresolved geopolitical tensions simmering in Ukraine and Gaza, the poem doesn’t shy away from addressing difficult realities. Each stanza echoes not just the happenings but the emotional weight behind them, reflecting a profound understanding of how world events touch everyone on a personal level.
Particularly moving are the references to iconic figures who have left this world, evoking nostalgia and collective memory. The loss of Jim Simons and Bernie Marcus in the financial realm, alongside the creative voices of Hollywood like James Earl Jones, resonate deeply with readers. Art Cashin’s ability to connect these dots speaks to his understanding of the human experience—the intertwining of loss within community narratives. Each name, each loss, serves as a reminder of the fragility of life, and how our legacies are often built upon the ripples left by those who came before us.
The tribute also cleverly intertwines wit and humor, offering a glimpse into the playful character of their father. Through lighthearted anecdotes about cultural moments, like the suggestive scenes from the world of music and sports, the Cashin brothers showcase the multifaceted nature of their father’s personality. In this way, the poem becomes more than a reflection; it serves as a celebration of life, encapsulating the joy amid sorrows and struggles.
As the New Year approaches, the brothers offer sage advice: cherish those still with us and honor the memories of those who have left. This feel of human connection is underscored by rituals celebrating diversity, encapsulated in their warm wishes for a New Year filled with “abbondanza”—abundance in every form. It’s a universal call that transcends cultural boundaries, inviting everyone to partake in the human experience of love, loss, celebration, and hope.
In their conclusion, Arthur III and Peter remind us not only of the myriad influences of their father but also of how he would expect humor to grace their tribute. This call to authenticity shines through, confirming that while Art Cashin may no longer be physically present, his spirit continues to inform the dialogue at the New York Stock Exchange and within the hearts of those who cherished him.
As the sons prepare to carry forward their father’s cherished New Year’s Eve tradition, they do so with a sense of responsibility and pride. They will sing “Wait ’till the Sun Shines, Nellie” not just as a tribute to their father, but as a reminder of the warmth and connectivity that defined his life. As we look toward the future, let us carry forward the essence of Art Cashin’s legacy—an unwavering commitment to meaningful connections, the pursuit of knowledge, and a recognition that the world becomes richer through the stories we tell, the memories we hold, and the love we share.