Praying (for rain) Mantis – Photo by Jan Bowman – 2012 |
This week I have thought about how the writer must learn to look closely at the world. I was reading some work by a budding, unpublished writer and noticed the attention to detail that brings the fictional world to life. To look closely at everything is one of several essential elements in effective writing. I don’t think this means the writer must describe every detail. That can become tedious, but I do think being aware of the real world allows a writer to move beyond the tangible into the ephemeral, in much the same way that a painter looks and then selects.
I took a walk in my little garden yesterday and I was struck at how quickly change can occur. Weeds were everywhere. And I noticed an interesting praying mantis. It’s a bit early for them, but we’ve had an early spring here in Maryland. So look closely and see if you can see the praying mantis in these two photographs. And I wonder – would people be as likely to see it if I had not pointed it out. Once we know what to look for – it’s somehow easier to see a thing we might have missed.
Look Closely – Photo by Jan Bowman – 2012 |
I am happy to say that modern medicine is amazing when you think that two weeks ago I was laid low by a bout with pneumonia and I have almost fully recovered from my illness. SO I will be away at a writers workshop next week, and have given myself permission to skip a blog entry next week if things are too busy.
I found this poem that I like about a praying mantis. Looking closely at the world adds to daily pleasures.
So glad you are completely back to good health!!!
Love this observation, pictures and poem. I did see the praying mantis, what fun!
Enjoy the workshop.
Hi and I am happy you liked this entry. These entries are fun to write. I am back home and although I am tired physically, I am all set to revise my newest story and bring it to a new level of possibility. AND I intend to post a new entry next week. Thank you for reading my blog and responding with your own insights. That’s what writers do. They share their thoughts. Best Regards, Jan