“The most important lesson in the writing trade is that any manuscript is improved if you cut away the fat.”
Do you see anything to Write Home About?
Do you see anything unseen?
Write about what you don’t know
Ken Kesey said: “One of the dumbest things you were ever taught was to write what you know. Because what you know is usually dull. Remember when you first wanted to be a writer? Eight or 10 years old, reading about thin-lipped heroes flying over mysterious viny jungles toward untold wonders? That’s what you wanted to write about, about what … Read More
The Water-Lily by Australian poet Henry Lawson (19th century Australia)
A lonely young wife In her dreaming discerns A lily-decked pool With a border of ferns, And a beautiful child, With butterfly wings, Trips down to the edge of the water and sings “Come, mamma! come! Step out on the leaves of the water-lily!” And the lonely young wife, Her heart beating wild, Cries, “Wait till I come, Till I … Read More
What is your Truth?
Indeed, what is your truth? Can you weave it into the fabric of your stories, into your themes and into the spirits of your characters? Can you change with your characters? Do they teach you something on their journeys? You are the sculptor of destiny, your characters’ and yours. Ma is older than old. She is losing her magical powers. … Read More
Happy New Day
For the aborigines, each day was a new day filled with opportunities to connect with the ancestors and enjoy running through the plains. Each day was the beginning of a new year, a new decade, a new century, another opportunity to tell old legends around blazing campfires. I wish you all the joy of connection with each other and with … Read More
Colors and ? What are these?
What are these called and what are they made from?
Recently, I had to give a eulogy for a dear friend. I chose to include this poem in the service. It is one of the most touching poems to remind us that we are part of all nature wherever we are. Ma’s ancestors are forever in the winds. What are your thoughts on this concept? Do not stand … Read More
Ma teaches the finding of her spirit animal. What’s Yours?
Seeking a protector, Ma stays overnight in the wilderness, alone, freed from normal distractions sending out prayers and lamentations to the animals and birds for protection until one answers. The prayers acknowledge the need for help and strength, insight and wisdom. Ma knows that the power animal can reveal itself to her in a dream or in this undreaming world. … Read More
An Aboriginal View of Death
Death is considered inevitable only in old people and perhaps in newborns. Untimely death of a younger person is considered a result of “evil magic” by that person’s enemy. If a death causes a disruption in the fabric of a society or clan, (and it does) it is considered an act of sorcery. Because the whole tribe goes into mourning … Read More