Martin wondered how he would break the news that he'd had a change of heart.
Towards the end of last year I made a pledge to myself (after all, who else is listening?) to disengage from unnecessary distractions and get on with some ‘proper’ writing. It felt good, and my new found determination was bolstered somewhat after watching a documentary about Ian Rankin. During the programme he allowed us a glimpse into his method of working, an insight from which I drew much confidence. All set then, despite my history of being a
And, surprise surprise, what did I do? I got distracted, signed up for a 14 week course, and got rather excited about returning to study. I even announced it on this blog a few short days ago. And, supportive souls that you are, you offered kind comments and good wishes. Meanwhile I was starting to develop the worrying symptoms of a man in ‘two minds’.
I’m refraining from getting too analytical about all of this, so to cut the story short, the writing is back at the top of the list and the courses will have to wait. Interestingly, Christine closed her comment on yesterday’s post with wishing me a Happy Epiphany. This little episode has, indeed, been a revelation...of sorts.
Well I for one am pleased about the writing. Ever since I retired I find it harder than ever to find time for everything and the list keeps getting longer. However, as we have discussed elsewhere Martin, I'm determined that I will write a little each week (I won't say each day yet, that might be pushing it a bit!). I want to study too, but mine will be simply through wading through the mounds of books I've acquired on poetry etc. and listening to podcasts. I'm looking forward to your anthology of poems for children :)
ReplyDeleteThanks, Marilyn. A collection of poems for children is among those works in progress.
DeleteAw, life's just too short isn't it? It takes a brave soul to admit you made a wrong decision, but rather that than stress over things that are meant to be fun.
ReplyDeleteYou're right, jennyfreckles, life is too short. Suddenly, the whole study idea was presenting itself as some kind of elaborate task avoidance thing. Not good.
DeleteBlogging takes up far too much time, I find. If I spent half as much time on writing as I do on blogging I’d have the memoir written, edited, re-written, re-edited and ready for the publisher by now.
ReplyDeleteI even went on a blogging diet; didn’t work either.
Best of luck with whatever you finally decide to do.
I agree, Friko, blogging does take up a lot of time. One reason why I stepped away from Poetry24 towards the end of 2012.
Delete'The Blogging Diet' has a certain ring to it.
Probably a wise decision, Martin. A grim single-mindness is useful in the writing game. (Now if I can just find mine again...)
ReplyDeleteIt feels right. Time will tell.
DeleteThat's funny that you had an epiphany on the very day. Sometimes we have to take a step before we can really know if it's right or not. I'm glad - if you had to choose between - that you've opted for writing.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Christine.
DeleteI tend to subscribe to the school of thought which says - just write. It doesn't matter what, it doesn't matter where, it doesn't matter to what end. My hope is that words are infectious, and therefore if I churn out enough of them, a few might be worth while.
ReplyDeleteYou share the same sentiments as the late John Arlott, Alan. I wrote to him back in the 70s for his views on writing. The answer came back, short and sweet. "Writers write. I'm afraid I can't be more helpful." In retrospect, it was a pretty dumb question. I'm ever fearful of joining the ranks of those who write about a desire to write, rather than getting on with it. Your words are a great help.
DeleteYou sound just like me - changing your mind is always an option - enjoy whatever you choose to do Martin.
ReplyDelete