I read my latest book, Seeking the Light, from front to back today. I admit I’m quite proud of the work. Some of the pieces feel as if they were written by another, more capable, poet. I did discover a number of typos, overuse of the word ‘perhaps’ and some formatting glitches, but on the whole it’s my best work yet.
I’ve not been productive writing lately, so it was exciting as I read along to feel the itch. My own writing acting like a catalyst, sparking a glimpse of inspiration (or at least intention). I’ve missed writing. I’ve missed the revelations and discovery that comes from the process. I’ve missed the peacefulness of time passing by unnoticed as the words form into thoughts. Writing is as much an act of healing as it is of expression. It’s very therapeutic.
I think part of my challenge is rising expectations. I’ve grown in my writing and I now judge myself too strictly. It hinders the free flow that is an essential part of my writing process. I need to learn how to write with a softer heart toward myself. Allow myself the space to create (for better or worse). I can always decide not to publish the piece (or work on it further before I do).
My earliest published works were raw. My words clumsy. My illustrations simplistic. But they were the best expressions of my thoughts at the time. I can already see improvement areas for my latest book. But, why be judgmental now? Why shy away? Yes, strive to be better, but I hope I can choose to appreciate the journey I’ve been, and continue to be, on.
To embrace this sentiment, here is a silly little play on my apparent infatuation with ‘perhaps’.
I literally had at least five instances of ‘perhaps’ in the first 8 or so pieces in the book. Sheesh 🙄.
Perhaps
Perhaps this, perhaps that;
Perhaps I’ll buy a new hat,
Or perhaps pet a black cat.
Perhaps its me, perhaps its you;
Perhaps I’ve not a clue
Why I say perhaps so often.
Perhaps, my vocabulary is so rotten,
Full of synonyms forgotten,
That I can’t get by
Or give an alternative a try?
Perhaps yes, perhaps no,
Or perhaps we’ll never, ever see
Me write with more certainty!
Be well,
Monty
Monty’s Blahg 
excellent! And as your editor Im embarrassed to have missed typos. Sheesh is right!
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No worries. We’ll get them next time!
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I had the word “actually” that I had a penchant for and overused! Perhaps is a less offensive one actually!! hehehe! I’m glad you are itching to write again!
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Haha. I don’t know I’d actually is worse…perhaps?
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Congratulations on the publication of your book, Monty! I enjoyed “Perhaps”–perhaps it will be the case that others won’t notice the repetition as much as you do?
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