Sully

During an archaeology class, when I was taking regardless-of-the-weather, weekly, all-day-Saturday walks over rough terrain, I began to see not just what was around me but to understand its meaning and place in the Universe. As I began to take writing more seriously, I began to see more and more things that could lead to and fit into articles and stories. The rewards flowing from such experiences radiated not only into the realms of history and writing but into expanded views of life itself.

Your latest piece not only beautifully describes how such awarenesses can influence one’s writing, but ones entire life experience. And of course you did it in your unique style that makes a reader retain not only the ideas but often the very words describing them. Such were your highly visual and tactile phrases including “lariats of reeds” that snared you “as tightly as Chinese finger traps,” a “quid pro quo” of a chance meeting, and passing “stations of the cross,”

Throughout your piece, you urge readers to sharpen and extend their views and to “think outside the box,” not only regarding things they might see, touch and hear, but with experiences and their subsequent effects.

As usual, you illustrated your sentiments effectively by inviting readers to join you in but “a walk in the woods.”

You demonstrate your concern that writers might miss the importance of bringing out poignancy and meaning as doubts are being resolved. In addition, apart from the fine advice, you managed to house it all in an interesting account of an eventful day in your life (and mind).

Have no concerns about Flamingo Frank existing somewhere, my friend. He exists within all of us who knew him, and you have once again deftly demonstrated that he certainly exists within you.

I hope you have sent or will send a copy of your piece to Frank’s family.

Amalgam

Sully

Sully