A Poetry Reading

It's all very well having a launch - and while I really don't mind talking to and interacting with people, in fact I really enjoy it, the very thought of presenting one's 'own work' is another story altogether.

Daunting is the word I use. But, the launch is set - for 1 December 2010. At Love Books [if you would like to join us please respond 'tout suite' as we need numbers for catering].

What wonderful support I've had from friends far and near. My overseas pals have sent such wonderful encouraging notes. Many of my 'here' friends are joining me for the launch. I have decided to have a small 'event' with candles, flowers, good 'finger food' [not fingers] and of course good wine - oh, not forgetting real lemonade for those who don't imbibe. Perhaps there will even be a surprise or two.

A great friend of mine - who is also a calligrapher and writer [much more famous than I] will sit with me as I read a few chosen poems. This I have been told is expected, the poetry reading that is. We will hopefully discuss them and the creative process as well.

So I leave now, to choose the poems and make sure I know what I'm trying to do. I add a photograph of myself on the dunes at De Hoop - the freedom of the air and sea is what I wish for you.

Sketch Your Year in Poetry

I have in my hand the proof copy of my first poetry book. I've had books published before. Calligraphy books which have done well for me. But somehow, these were 'easier' as I am extremely familiar with the subject.

Poetry, on the other hand is subjective and personal. Once the first poem you have written is handed over to the first reader, the words are no longer your own. It's as if you are sending your first child to school. You give up responsibility to someone else to interpret and nurture. It's downright nerve wracking waiting for the 'first report'.

I am overwhelmed by the support of my family and their incredible talents. Elizabeth has worked with me throughout with the layout and design of the book, John did the cover and inside illustrations, Dave was the 'word merger' whenever I stumbled about for the correct nuance. Of course David was the master 'fine-tooth-comber'. Thank you!!!

Now the book is done and fine detailed corrections are made. Then on Monday the 'sign off' occurs and then the book is on its own.

The launch is in the first week of December. Hope you will be there!

Of Books and Publishers

Well at last my book is at the printers. People always talk about a book being like giving birth. Well giving birth may well be what I've done over the last few years - more like having a baby elephant really.

The to-ing and fro-ing, from publisher to book designer, to book cover designer [both of those happened to be my children - Elizabeth and John respectively]. Oh and don't forget the editors [yes, more than one]. In fact once you hand your book over to 'the other side' [hear spooky music] it is no longer yours and you as author had better realise that very quickly!

I suppose it's a Good Thing, because the poems are no longer your own once they have been 'sent out there'. They become the readers very own. AND that is one thing that authors should realise very quickly. Once the book is out of your hands it is not longer your own and so I suppose that makes any criticisms that much easier to accept.

The launch of the book will be in the first week of December so please keep your eyes open for 'Sketch Your Year in Poetry' soon after that.