Hello friends. Well, the world has seen carnage and hate and stupidity this week. I must admit I have a difficult time finding solace. The literary world is mourning the loss of Denis Johnson. In announcing his death the Michener Center for Writers reported that Denis Johnson kept on his desk this quote by Walt Whitman as a personal manifesto. “This is what you shall do; Love the earth and sun and the animals, despise riches, give alms to every one that asks, stand … [Read more...]
Sláinte
Happy Saint Patrick’s Day! I’ve spent the weekend celebrating. First on Friday I re-connected with a cousin. Since then my mind has been on the past, the uncles and aunts, grandparents, and parents now deceased. All weekend long the pull to look back has been strong, and I have indulged myself, remembering the funny stories and not so funny ones too. One of my uncles was particularly proud of our Irish heritage and he would drill me to remember my ancestry. “What are … [Read more...]