I look at the writing of others and compare it to my own. My ex husband was an English Graduate who wrote for a living. One of my friends here in Cape Town is a published author and highly regarded travel journalist – a Rhodes Scholar, no less. I have two friends in LA who are professional writers and my daughter is about to debut her first play.
Their prose is never purple, punctuated only with correct grammar and never with cliche. I read the long list of errors that amateur writers make. I wince and delete all my adjectives. I look online for clever words. I try to remember if the full stop goes after or before the parenthesis. Why did I think I could do this? And then I realise it is not the style in which you write nor the words you use, but the subject matter which is important. I am not here to win the Booker – only to touch your heart in some small way. And if I have achieved that, awakening a recognition within you, then I will have served my purpose and the courage to publish my words will have been worthwhile.
A stack of old log books – with diary entries and notes – is crammed between the shelves of the bookcase in the back room. They chart my journey to Africa – the ups and the downs, the reflections on my life, the insights and epiphanies along the way. The stories remain locked in their dusty covers, fading with time, eager to be read, hopeful that one day I’ll resurrect them.
2 Comments
Zoue · 16th June 2015 at 9:37 am
When you came to Earth from a planet so far away, everything up to now has been a preparation and bridge for your divine work. Many shine, but no one shines as bright as you with such deep compassion, intellect and wisdom. The knowledge will manifest in words and forms codes and patterns that will enlighten all of us, especially those that are here to get us through our darkest hour. I am so honoured to know you and cannot wait to obtain a copy of your book. Love and more love Zoue
Bridget Finklaire · 16th June 2015 at 4:51 pm
Awww…. Zoue. Thank you. You’re an Angel. Love you my dear friend and Soul SiStar. xx