I’ve been a professional writer for 40 years, and an editor for almost as long. I value clarity, brevity and simplicity in the written word (and the spoken word, but that’s another story). I happen to agree with the words of former US President Thomas Jefferson, who once said: “The most valuable of talents is that of never using two words when one will do.” But I was horrified last week … [Read more...] about TL;DR? If this is too long for you to read, stop now…
BLOG
Why words matter more than ever
I watched with grim fascination as the storming of the US Capitol took place yesterday – an act that was demonstrably incited by the sitting president. In the early videos shown on news channels, some of those who forced their way into the building seemed to behave like tourists, taking selfies and videos for the folks back home; others were full of rage and self-righteousness. It put me in … [Read more...] about Why words matter more than ever
Let’s write a powerful story for 2021
I’ve just finished watching Game of Thrones. Yes, I know I’m a bit late to the party, but I reckon it’s never too late to watch a timeless epic. My only reference points for the eight-season series were the fan outbursts on social media - especially about that final season - so I knew from the start who won the game, but I didn’t know how they did it. I had major issues with the amount of … [Read more...] about Let’s write a powerful story for 2021
Who are you missing this Christmas?
This will be our first Christmas without Mum. I know many other families will be missing loved ones from the festive table this year - whether through death, illness or simply not being able to get together due to Covid restrictions. But I think there's something extra-poignant about an absent mother. No matter how she might have been feeling, Mum always made sure we had a lovely … [Read more...] about Who are you missing this Christmas?
Behold, the Christmas Star is here
In times of turmoil, loss and uncertainty, I’m always comforted by the view outside my window. Nature gets on with it, the seasons unfold as they should, and the sun rises every morning. And, moving beyond the sun, the planets play their part in the solar system with satisfying precision. I have always marvelled at the mechanics of this system, which allows the positions of planets and their … [Read more...] about Behold, the Christmas Star is here
Perhaps we should see grief as our constant companion
I've just discovered that tomorrow (8th December) is the final day of National Grief Awareness Week, the existence of which I wasn't aware of until today. The irony being that I am, and have long been, constantly aware of grief. The campaign is being run by The Good Grief Trust, which aims to normalise grief, get people to talk about it, and offer support from day one to anyone suffering a … [Read more...] about Perhaps we should see grief as our constant companion