Sunday, July 26, 2009

Read This!

My title refers (sort of) to this book I'm obsessed with: Born to Run. But it also refers to this blog post.
Sometimes I think I'm talking into a void. Also, I think, "why blog?" It seems self-indulgent and narcissistic.
But then my friend posts this: "I prefer blogs that read like a journal where every petty detail of their lives are revealed." But his blog is intellectual and insightful, a mash-up of a personal essay and poetic theory. His blog is not petty.
But his post made me feel like it's okay to just blog whatever, I don't need a theme or an insight I can just say, here's what happened today people.
So, we're nearly done with the patio project, and I will post pictures, eventually. We put some sand on the part that is finished and (thank god!) it hides our imperfections. I wish I could cover myself with sand.
I decided that my experimental, obsessive novel needs to be a mystery with a chronological plot. Back to the drawing board. But I already have an idea for the second novel in this series with my thirty-something female main character. If I can't be literary, at least I can sell out. Maybe. I'll let you know how that goes.
I'm obsessed with the running book and now feel like what I need to do is run more. Right. I'll let you know how that goes. But the book is awesome, and even if you don't like running, it actually has a great plot and the information in it is super fascinating. It's inspiring.

5 comments:

susansinclair said...

I love a well plotted mystery with interesting characters, so I don't think that's selling out at all. In fact, as an intellectual type who reads so much for work, I find it hard to read experimental stuff for enjoyment. But that's me.

I love the thing about the sand--I think your 30-something female character has to do observe this at some point. Do you keep a file of such tidbits?

Mysteries I've started reading: Rhys Bowen's Molly Brown series. NYC historical stuff, plucky heroine, what's not to love?

Lisa B. said...

I am excited to hear this:

>>it's okay to just blog whatever, I don't need a theme or an insight I can just say, here's what happened today people.

YES.

I am excited also about your mystery with a chronological plot idea. Let me be of service to you in whatever what possible. A good mystery is really a service to man- and woman-kind.

AJ said...

I love your blog! As I live in a completely different state, and sometimes I think a different world, I love knowing what's going on with you--whether it's day to day musing on patios, or intellectual discussions! Makes me feel a part of your world, if only for a few minutes a day. And I love mysteries as well--excellent choice!

Nik said...

I've heard amazing things about this book. I shall read it. And then I'll read your murder mystery so I can pretend it feels like summer--some time during the year.

Rae said...

I love, love, love your blog, and always look forward to your updates. Exciting news about novel--that's not selling out at all.

(Alex just read Born to Run and was obsessed with it. He tried running barefoot on the beach at my parents' but it only lasted two days.)