Quote of the Week:
“You must write every single day of your life… You must lurk in libraries and climb the stacks like ladders to sniff books like perfumes and wear books like hats upon your crazy heads… may you be in love every day for the next 20,000 days. And out of that love, remake a world.”
― Ray Bradbury
Actually, I lurk in bookstores.
Did you get a visual, though? Could you almost feel the time-weathered pages? Were your nostrils tickled with that familiar scent found mainly in books? Did you sigh with undisguised pleasure? And did the librarian chase you out of the building after catching you hanging by the pads of your fingers from the topmost shelf? No? So that was just me?
Yet, what a fine charge the above quote is for someone like me, who is finding, at last, the courage of a dragon-slayer to face the fire-breathing fears known as Doubt and the Notion of Not Being Good Enough, so that I can start fulfilling my dream of becoming a published fiction writer. Those monsters have blocked my way for years, and, sad to say, I gave them that power. The wonderful thing is that, while dragons are terrifying and ferocious, they’re not invincible. With that reminder came the realisation, one day last year, that I should and could chop off their nasty heads if I’m to start this journey. Yes, me. The one who doesn’t even have the nerve to behead a chicken.
So, for the next 364 days, I’ll write my heart out, focus on completing the first draft of my first book by, or before, the end of this year, and learn the courage of a dragon-slayer. I know that they’re many of you brave ones out there. I’ve seen your books, maybe even read one or two of them. You give me hope. For me, your books are signs that you overcame, that you never gave up, that you slew some dragons, that you lurked. Okay, I know that lurking doesn’t have anything to do with slaying dragons, but I refuse to believe that not one of you had that visual of being thrown out by an irate librarian!
You know that saying about the pen being mightier than the sword? Some dragons are about to find out.
Happy 2012, everyone! Walk good.
P.S.
A Few Fun Facts
Dragons don’t feature in Jamaican folklore, but the word is a part of our culture in some attractive ways.
Dragon Stout: This is a popular Red Stripe brand and top stout of the tropics. As a pubescent child, I used to go with my father on some of his many social rounds, and noticed that this drink was a favourite among the men while they played dominoes. At home, Daddy would mix it with condensed milk and some other ingredients that I don’t remember now, so that I could have it. Lip-smacking good! Spitfire, the new Dragon Stout, came on the market in 2010.
Photo credit: jamaica-gleaner.com
Dragon Point Villa: This villa will be on my must-visit list, especially since Portland is one of my favourite spots.
Dragon Bay, Port Antonio: The bar on the beach at the Dragon Bay resort featured in scenes from the movie “Cocktail”, starring Tom Cruise.
Love this piece Nadine! Like you, I would rather lose myself in a bookstore – clothing stores bore me. Stout and condensed milk – nice stuff
Thank you, Jean. You’re a woman after my own heart.
Very poetic and it reaches deep into the subconcious and mythological meanings. Keep traveling those sacred paths and treading down those serpents!
Very gracious of you, Freeman, and much appreciated. I intend to do just that!
I enjoy the doggy part. Knew you would incorporate them…..go, go, go
Nads, welcome back! I missed you, too.
Now, I again have an inspiring blog to which I can go for laughs, for advice and for a friend.
All the best on this inspiring journey and for 2012 and beyond.
Thank you, Zelda. I appreci-love the compliment and good wishes.
I FOUND YOU!!!!
Yes, you did.
Nadine, if the writing in this post is anything to go by, your writing dreams will be within your grasp – so beautifully written, and so moving. I love the quote at the beginning – libraries, bookshops – loved them as a child, teen and adult. Have a particular fondness for second hand bookshops, though not so many of those around now. Good luck with the writing – the only way to write, IS to write! Go slay those dragons… they’re big babies really!
Abi, you’re such a gracious soul. Thank you so much. Will be visiting some second hand bookshops, because I need to read even more than I write. Thanks for the good wishes. I WILL write, and slay those big babies.
WELCOME BACK
We all missed you.
Sometimes, when one person is missing, the whole world seems depopulated
Aww, I missed you too, and your delightful quotes. Happy 2012 to you and yours! Thanks for the warm welcome.