Despite my husband and No. 2 Son insisting on skiing up to a place where they could take a photo of such a sign, we have all returned safe and sound from our ski trip. Every year for as long as I can remember, we’ve taken the kids skiing in February, and every year it coincides with my youngest son’s birthday. This year he turned 18 and needless to say I’ve been awash in nostalgia. I’m in danger of turning this blog, which is supposedly about the “writing life,” into a drawn-out portrayal of the soon-to-be “empty nest.” Ah, me.
I did manage to stretch out on a couch in the hotel bar and read the penultimate chapter of the new novel. I’ve now read everything that I’ve written (which is everything but the final chapter), and I feel rarin’ to go on draft two. There’s plenty to be done. I especially
Tania was one of 4 writers speaking and reading from their stories which were included in a new anthology called “The Sea of Azov.” Tania and the others read short portions from their stories and then discussed the art and pleasure of the short story. Just being there got me energized to face the looming ream of revisions. And it was especially wonderful knowing one of the talented writers sitting up there on that podium. Again, I realized that there is this global community of writers out there and by being a part of it we all nourish each other.
The Mountain Climber
My lips are burning
red and sore, they beg
the soothing balm of
greasy, stinging salve.
But, I don’t mind.
This is what mountains do.
Now, like every year, I pull on
layers of insulated cotton,
wide-woven Gortex,
knee-length tightly-knit socks.
One last scratch to the itching ankle welts and
I’m ready.
Not for battling the elements;
everyday life challenges me enough.
But instead to come and stand
on top of this snow-covered mountain,
look beyond into the depths of remote Italy,
and despite feeling minute within
the expanse of white-blue silence,
I believe I am also
brave
strong
capable
bold
briefly momentarily
in charge.
Sue, it was just wonderful that you came today! I really appreciate it, it meant a lot to me, to see you and Elizabeth there in the 2nd row. It was fun, wasn’t it? I had a lot more to say about short stories, but alas, they wouldn’t give me another hour to rant!
So glad skiing was fun, and there were no mishaps. What a beautiful poem, I love those last five lines. Stunning.
Re: your next draft, here’s an idea which Sarah H blogged about: she paid Lulu to print up her novel-in-progress as a book, just one copy, so that she could see it in book format. Just for her, not to show anyone else. Isn’t that a clever idea?
Beautiful poem and I’m glad you’re all fired up and almost back to full health.
All the best with the second draft!
I SO should have been there …
Tania’s gig, I mean, though I wouldn’t mind a skiing trip either …
Tania: What a clever idea about Lulu! I might just give it a go. And you really were great today. I wish they had given you hours to talk on, too, though. I’d love to hear all your thoughts and ideas about short stories (or anything else). Hope you’re feeling ok. xoxox
Lane: Thanks, and I’m so glad you like the poem. It’s an oldie, so I hesitated putting it up, but i guess it’s ok….
Debi: To be honest, i went hoping/thinking you might be there and I kept looking around for someone who might be you. But alas. At least I know I didn’t miss you. A get-together sometime soon? xo
There is a place in Scotland that I go to any time I feel overwhelmed….it’s got beautiful blue/purple mountains, the ruins of a few buildings peeping out the greenery and a sparkling blue lake. I love it there and always come away feeling exactly like the last few lines of your poem. Thank you for sharing your poem…it’s brought back thoughts of a wonderful place 🙂
C x
There is an award for you over at mine 🙂
C x
Oh, and your pic is in the post
C– Thanks, thanks and thanks!
Very glad you’re back safely, Sue. What a life you lead, Singapore one week, skiing the next! 😉
The mountain photographs are striking – and the cover of The Sea of Azov beautiful.
Michelle: I admit, it has been a crazy month. But I’m settling down now, and trying to throw myself into the last revisions of novel 2 — as soon as I can clear the house of the post-refurbishing rubble…
So glad you’re recovered, oh jet setting one!
I loved your poem.
And all the very best with your second draft. I know the feeling, I’m heading into the same space, only mine’s a huge rewrite… eeek!
There is, by the way, a little something for you over at my place – in recognition of what you do and share!