Historic places are fascinating, particularly historic homes. Seeing how people lived and thrived over a hundred years ago while successfully changing the course of history without wi-fi and air conditioning is riveting. Historical voyeurism. But just like you and me, these folks worried about their country, the well-being of their children, their personal circumstances. They existed, survived, hoped to make a difference, prayed for rain and mourned the deceased. Walking along the beautiful Potomac exploring the grounds of Mount Vernon is akin to a religious experience. Strolling in George Washington’s footsteps, seeing his view from the lawn, his stuff, things he touched and held dear, his graveside tomb – how could every American citizen not feel a bit more united?
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| Mt. Vernon |
We have toured old homes in New Orleans with incredible architecture and rich histories. Jefferson Davis’ home in Biloxi is a true southern treasure, nearly destroyed by Katrina. I dare say everyone already knows how I feel about amazing Graceland…And Johnny Cash’s home, across the ditch from our cotton field, is currently being restored bringing a welcomed flurry of activity to Northeast Arkansas.
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| The Man in Black’s House |
One of my favorite things about Key West, ranking right up there with deep fried conch fritters, is Ernest Hemingway’s house where he wrote poems and stories in the early morning hours and explored Old Town in the afternoons. Antiques from his travels fill the home, and exotic hunting trophies line the walls. Inspiration is palpable, wrapped in warm breezes off the island’s turquoise waters. His desk is there. I had a sudden urge to casually limbo underneath the velvet rope and lightly touch it, but I resisted.
Turns out there is commonality between Hemingway and me. His passion was writing, and I enjoy reading what he wrote. We both like(d) wine. And surprisingly, his second wife was originally from Northeast Arkansas, just like John’s second wife (me). They met and married in Paris, France, but she was an Arkansas girl from Piggott. Hemingway spent long periods of time there visiting her family and writing. Next week I will be attending a creative writer’s retreat in the Hemingway-Pfeiffer House studying and writing in this holy place. Somebody pinch me.
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| Hemingway-Pfeiffer House, Piggott, Ar |
Hemingway wrote part of A Farewell to Arms while in Arkansas. For whatever reason, creative juices seem to flow in this unremarkable corner of the state – maybe it’s the pull of the mighty Mississippi which heavily influenced Mark Twain or the impoverished working man who impacted Johnny Cash’s bare-bones music. Or maybe sheer boredom stirs the soul. The quickly approaching writer’s retreat is a bit intimidating, pushing me completely beyond my comfort zone of blogging in familiar silence. How do I react if after ten minutes I’m advised, “Really? A writer? Bless your heart you should just return to your banking job…” What if I’m not good enough? What if I’m not good?
Grace Grits and Gardening
Farm. Food. Garden. Life.
The only person asking “What if I’m not good enough?” is every writer from the first guy who put stylus to clay tablets in ancient Babylonia to every blogger who has ever taken a chance and posted their thoughts for the world to read. And that passes through all those published authors on your book shelf. You’re in excellent company. 🙂
I know you’re going to enjoy the retreat. You’ll meet other writers and can talk about writing without having to get That Look. You know the one. And also without having to hear, “Oh, I have an idea for a best-selling novel that I know would sell millions of copies, but I just don’t have time to write it down” from every yahoo who can’t distinguish between ‘your’ and ‘you’re’ or properly identify a verb.
Enjoy!
Hahaha! Thanks for my morning belly laugh. Yes I already know the look. T.
Have fun at your retreat. Sounds like an interesting time!
I’m excited! But dreading the long drive.
Now is when you need a charmed portkey. Good and safe travels. Of course, YOU ARE GOOD ENOUGH! Enjoyed the read and loved the response from KAA. Have fun. Talya’s Mother
I saw a child’s lone bright purple flip flop this morning one block over on the sidewalk. My first thought was, “Maybe this is a portkey that will transport me to Piggott!” I started to grab it but I was walking the dogs and they are not invited on this little road trip to the Hemingway House. We want it to survive another 100 years.
Never doubt your talent, Talya! Today’s blog is so cool-made my heart flutter! Pinch, pinch! Safe travels!
Thank you Colene! What a nice compliment:)) T.
Are you staying the night in Piggott? I’ve read about the Rosedale Farm Bed & Breakfast. I called the lady that owns the charming Bungalow & it was booked the time we passed through (on our way home from a long trip, years ago.)
Hemingway’s A Farewell to Arms” is a favorite of mine. Your a great writer & I enjoy reading all your stories. Enjoy your trip to Hemingway-Pfeiffer House.
Yes I’m staying a week in Piggott at a bed and breakfast that was originally the downtown bank. I’m excited about that too! Thanks Angi!
I’m so proud of you!!! Good for you, cuz!!! And everyone is right! Never doubt your creative talent – E.V.E.R. I’ve told you more than once and I mean it – you are refreshingly original, down-to-earth, witty, thoughtful, and a true southern gem! Oh yeah, and brilliant – but don’t go gettin the big head! HaHa. I know you won’t – just one more reason I love you! Enjoy
yourself – soak up all you can and I know the others will feel blessed to learn from YOU too! Talya’s cousin, CindyLu
Wow thanks! Love ya!
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