From the book "Travel Writing" by Don George

"Writing of any kind is a way of making a clearing so as to make sense and shape out of the world, and to take all the rubble of one's experiences and emotions and observations and piece them together into a kind of stained glass whole. It is a way of removing oneself from the world, and sometimes from the self, so as to see both more clearly."

He is referring to travel writing but the principle is the same for all of us who put pen to papter. He adds,
" Writing of every kind is a way to wake oneself up and keep as alive as when one has just fallen in love."

Do you remember that moment when you fell in love with your partner? When the world seemed brighter, the stars nearer and your inner glow was blinding? That's what writing should and can do for us.

When asked how he got his first book published he said he made up a three page proposal and not knowing any better sent it out to 'Nonfiction editor, Random House' and 9 other unsuspecting nobodies in the biggest publishing houses he could think of. Just as when we were young, naive and in love that blind faith paid off.

Seven never replied, but he got letters from three asking for a sample chapter. Then they asked for another sample chapter. They sent him a small advance and he set to work while holding down a full time job to get the book done.Many months with minimal sleep it was finished.Sometimes "fools rush in where angels fear to tread" and the universe actually bless's that fool.

Could Don's attitude about getting published be something we all could adopt? Just get that query letter sent out to as many publishers as possible(keep a list) and you too could be surprised by a positive response.

Sept.23,24/05 in the serene setting of Kent's Beach Resort (www.kentsbeach.com) south of Powell River, I will partnered up with professional muscian Helena Sandler (www.saternamusic.com) for "Seaside Writing and Musical Retreat."

Both writers and musicians are invited to gather together for a weekend retreat like none they've ever been to before. Registration fee is all inclusive and includes both myself and Helena's onsite coaching, all food, shared accomodation, free journalling workshop and more. Email me for details and brochure.

Oct.15 the Powell Festival of Writers is hosting a one day writer's workshop called "The Publishers and The Scribes." West coast author Howard White and publisher of Harbour Publishing will be giving tips on publishing and writing. You'll also hear from Karen Southern, local historian and author and her experiences as a writers.Full info and registration will be up on the festival site( www.prmicro.com/festivalofwriters) by next week so watch for it or email me @ dreambg1@shaw.ca

Till next time, take time to Retreat 2 Write and find that fresh view that all great writers thrive on.