The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious. It is the source of all true art and science.
Hello all!
This long weekend has opened my eyes to a lot of things, with much free time to tap into different worlds locked in books, what I see outside my window, the landscape in films, the ripple of a sigh, the faded sound of laughter from a long-lost companion- all unearthed the stirrings of my heart.
As of late, I have been really enchanted by certain time periods- of which in particular, Regency and Victorian England.
"Watch your step. Keep your wits about you; you will need them. This city I am bringing you to is vast and intricate, and you have not been here before. You may imagine, from other stories you've read, that you know it well, but those stories flattered you, welcoming you as a friend, treating you as if you belonged. The truth is that you are an alien from another time and place altogether."
As soon as I finished reading those very words, it has been impossible to put down "The Crimson Petal and the White" since. One thing I have often done while reading a book, is arrange a soundtrack of sorts to accompany the background of the story, and it further heightens the world I've entered. For this particular read, Florence + The Machine's "Heavy In Your Arms" and "Blinding" have been the perfect companion. I recommend giving a listen to them both... I find that they have a certain allure and an underlying sinking momentum similar to sensual embraces- perfect for the dark and often imperfect Victorian setting the book sets in place.
Even better, BBC has accomplished a series based on the book featuring Romola Garai, Chris O'Dowd and Gillian Anderson. It is brilliant in capturing the atmosphere of the book, and the actors have played their parts perfectly. Always loved whatever Romola does, I definitely place her as one of my favorite actresses. As I read the book, Romola he is what I pictured Sugar to be, however I pictured William as a rougher, older looking Chris Evans (although Chris O'Dowd was brilliant) - it is my version of characters after all!
This summer is dedicated to as much travel as I can muster. Through fine company, we have come up with many ways to explore places that are well-known, and some that are not. Each has a story to tell, and I will do my best to capture it as much as I can. First destination up- Niagara Falls! As popular as it may seem, I intend to wander through the historic districts, staying at the the hotel that Marilyn Monroe has once stayed while filming a movie. I made sure my friend brought her good shutters- for there will be many pictures to take.
(Photo: Architecture Digest)
Some reflections that has been going through my mind this week:
What does it mean to be incandescently happy? Often when I walk through the streets of this city, I look for signs. Signs which will lead the way and will reveal to me what it means to have one's heart filled with the purpose of existence. Yes, I've walked by couples who clearly portray their love for one another, an individual who offers an act of kindness to another, groups of people heading in hundreds of directions, a mental destination awaiting them. For that, the glow emanates from the liveliness of these individuals, a thousand whispers of joy, loss, listlessness, satisfied desires and unwanted tragedy issues woven in a swirl before it evaporates into the air.
I've always believed that everything happens for a reason. The tribulations one has fallen into and and rises above from in the past will wrap its advantageous strength around your shoulders.
The people that come and go in the doorsteps of one's life- those that are true will always hold steadfast as the stars against the night sky, no matter how severe or beautiful the atmosphere you find yourself surrounded by.
The approaching months hold so much promise, I fear it may be too perfect and some form of wreckage will soon reveal its deformed face. So I tread through careful waters, holding the candle of Hope which I've let it burn bright all these years, even when I thought it could not hold on much longer.
We are all that we can be, so let us breathe.
Joie de vivre,
Joanne
Absolutely love this post and this blog! It's now on my top 5!
ReplyDeleteIt never fails to amaze me how she can spin ordinary days into fantastical adventures. One of the excellent undiscovered writers I have ever known!
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