I’m writing my second book.
Those are thrilling and daunting words to type. I’ve done this before, but this time everything is new.
Sometimes, writing a book feels like tuning in to the whispers of the universe, and hearing murmured stories on the wind. Messages appear in unlooked-for places, in unexpected ways: a line in the newspaper, the title of a poem, a map, a snatch of song. A complex spiderweb of connections gradually reveals itself, and threads of meaning begin to shine. Half-remembered moments come sharply into focus, whilst previously unheard of people and places assume a sudden significance.
On Valentine’s Day, I worked in a cafe for the morning. I am re-drafting a chapter and the clatter of mugs and hum of chat is soothing. Stepping out into the sunlight, I saw the proprietor of the vintage shop opposite lining up her merchandise on the pavement. The day was cold and she wore a brown fur coat, like the ones that hung in her shop doorway. On a formica table stood a box filled with old postcards, two for a pound. I bent over the box and rummaged absent-mindedly through technicolour scenes of holiday destinations, old buildings, and cloudy shots of steam railways. Straightening up, ready to walk away, a thought bubbled into my mind: ‘there’s something here for your book’. I dipped in one more time: ‘Valentine’s Post Card’ read the back of the card beneath my fingers. ‘1d stamp if with only sender’s name and address and 5 words conventional greeting’. It was blank and I flipped it over.
In my hand, I held a black and white photograph of the exact place I visited last month on a research trip — a location one hundred and fifty miles away — the subject of the chapter I am writing.
The universe whispers to me. I stop to listen.
Thank you for reading, and for your support.
Laura x
PS: I’m thinking of making this an occasional series, to let you in on my book writing experience. Let me know your thoughts in the comments.
PPS: Update— thanks to your lovely positive responses, it’s now a series! Read the other posts here.
Oh, yes. Please do!
I am delighted of your idea🤩