Original Framed Display of Poem ‚“The Elvis Charisma” by Janelle McComb Originally Gifted to Elvis Presley at Graceland

Janelle McComb lived in Tupelo, Mississippi, where Elvis was born, and was a life-long friend of the Presley family, having known Elvis since he was a mere child. So close was Janelle McComb to the Presleys that she became the longtime director of the Elvis Presley Memorial Foundation and wrote the poems that appear on Elvis’ epitaph and the Eternal Flame. She often wrote poetry for Elvis to give as gifts to his family and poetry for Elvis himself. The offered framed tribute poem entitled “The Elvis Charisma” was given to Elvis by the McCombs on Christmas in 1971, and it remained at Graceland until it was later returned to the McComb family sometime after Elvis passed away.

The printed card adhered to the back of the framed poem reads “Mrs. James Roy McComb” with the handwritten note that reads “Merry Christmas 1971.” Janelle inscribed and signed on the back paper of the display: “Written by Janelle McComb.” The poem accurately describes the spell that Elvis had on fans of all ages and ends with the accolade, “As long as there is Elvis there will be unequaled melody, and as long as there is Elvis he will be ‘The King’ And I might add - he wears the crown very well indeed!” The display measures 29 by 26 inches and is accompanied by a letter of authenticity from Graceland Authenticated (quoted here).