[CW] CW problem

[wa0goz@arrl.net]

I posted this on other reflectors, so getting that, please forgive me
for posting
it here.
===================
I'm trying to learn to head copy CW.  I can copy with pencil at about 15
wpm now.  My problem with head copy is that I don't hear the words, I
hear the "melody".  That is, if I hear  dit dah  dah dit  dah dit dit,
I don't hear A-N-D, or AND, I hear dit dah  dah dit  dah dit dit.  I can
go along with a whole tape and "sing" right along with the sounds.  I
really have to concentrate to hear the letters, but since I'm apparently
doing some translation process, by the time the third letter gets to me,
I've forgotten the first one or two.  This has been driving me crazy for
a year or so.  I know that until I can start hearing words, I'll never
be able to head copy fast.

I've corresponded with a number of hams, including Bill Pierpoint (who
wrote a great book on CW), about this problem, and the only solution
anyone has is for me to stop trying so hard and relax and just let it
come.  If I do that, I can really get into the "music" of the tones.

Anyone have any experience with this type of problem or any suggestions
as to how to overcome it?  All help is appreciated.

73/72

Henry   WA0GOZ