Commonplace #6

Some things that caught my interest - January 2025

Exploring Life and Literature

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Dear Friends,

This publication’s focus over the past two months has been lifelong learning. I wasn’t always open to learning new things. Staying within the protective cocoon of what I already knew seemed safer. Nothing wrong with safe but it seldom leads us anywhere. These days my mind is a sponge, soaking up new knowledge and experiences. There is a lot to be worried about in the world today. There is also a lot to be grateful for. Be kind. Be curious. Be a good steward of our resources. Learn a new language. Take up an instrument. Teach yourself a new skill. Be a good human being.

“How we think ripples out to how we behave.” - Robin Wall Kimmerer

Praying Hands - Albrecht Durer, 1508 (Generally housed in the collection at the Albertina Museum, Vienna, Austria)

Here are some things that recently caught my interest:

• I love reading that challenges me, and this essay, Life Cannot Be Delegated, by

  L. M. Sacasas
  , is one I have returned to time and again over the past month. Michael captures the very essence of my internal struggle with technological advances.

• Emily Kaminsky
  has found her calling in advocating for artists through her intriguing publication, RainMakers & ChangeMakers. Check out the incredible talent of these underrepresented artists.

• George Bothamley
  shares art with his readers daily while sharing the story behind the art and artists. The artwork at the beginning of this article was recently highlighted in his essay, The Story of Albrecht and Albert Durer.

• Ruth Gaskovski
  continues to educate me on ways to break up with tech in her excellent essay, It’s not me, it’s you. Read this for a wake-up call.

• Author - Claire Swinarski
  published an essay on How to be a Good Literary Citizen.

• Peco
  ’s recent essay, The Phantom and Mr. Jobs: Is there a way to stop brain drain?, takes an in-depth look at how all-in-one devices have impacted our cognitive state.

• Dana Leigh Lyons
  explains why Everything in Moderation is Just Settling for Mediocrity.

• Earlier this month, I posted a quote on Notes. Unfortunately, it was done late at night and contained a misattribution and misspelling. Fortunately, other lovely readers corrected my errors, leading me to read

  Ann Kennedy Smith
  ’s fabulous article on Samuel Beckett titled—I am what her savage loving has made me.

• Latham Turner
  ’s thought-provoking essay "What will it take to revitalize education?" continues his series of exceptional articles exploring alternative ideas about education and how to fix a broken system.

• Adam Karaoguz
  , a fellow Navy veteran, writes how Reading is Now A Superpower.

• Sarah Fay
  shares her grief following the recent death of her mother in an excellent essay, You Told Me This Would Happen.

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Books:

• Cibola Burn by James S. A. Corey. The fourth book in The Expanse series is a thrilling exploration of frontier politics, human resilience, and survival challenges in uncharted territory. The novel masterfully balances accessible science with a gripping narrative, making it an ideal read for fans of character-driven science fiction. The story follows the conflicts that arise as humanity pushes into the alien landscapes of the Ring Worlds, blending tense political intrigue with the series' signature action and humor. Its compelling characters and high-stakes drama make it a standout in the series.

• Who by Fire by

  <Mary L. Tabor>
  . This is a poignant novel about love, loss, and forgiveness. Narrated by Robert, a widower reflecting on his late wife Lena's infidelity, the story explores his journey to understand their relationship and come to terms with his grief. Tabor's lyrical prose and symbolic depth create an emotionally rich narrative that examines the complexities of human connection, betrayal, and healing. Its poetic storytelling and nuanced portrayal of relationships make it a compelling exploration of the human condition. *Warning, there is graphic sex in this one.*

• Sea of Tranquility by Emily St. John Mandel. This book is a captivating blend of speculative science fiction and intimate human connection. I loved it and it is my favorite of her works. Mandel masterfully weaves a narrative that spans centuries, deftly exploring themes of time, existence, and the threads that connect us. The story unfolds with a delicate balance of wonder and intimacy, pulling the reader into a richly imagined world that never loses its grounding in the human experience. Her elegant and evocative prose makes this novel thought-provoking and profoundly moving. This book is a must-read for fans of science fiction that speaks to the heart as much as the mind.

• Someday Johnson Creek by

  Joshua Doležal
  . This poetry collection celebrates the natural world's beauty and complexity while simultaneously acknowledging its brutality. Dolezal’s approachable style invites readers into vivid landscapes and reflective moments, creating a sense of intimacy with nature. I connected with this collection and I believe anyone who has ever felt a deep alliance with the outdoors will feel the same. Its evocative imagery and heartfelt themes transported me, reminding me of the peace and wonder found in wild places. It brought back cherished memories of living in the Pacific Northwest and exploring its rugged, awe-inspiring beauty. Dolezal’s work is a gift for nature lovers and poetry enthusiasts alike.

• Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte. I read this in preparation for writing my review and article for March, the month I focus on Women in Literature. So I will save my thoughts for that. However, I did not enjoy it as much as her sister’s book, Jane Eyre.

• The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah. This book is a masterpiece of historical fiction that transports readers to Nazi-occupied France during World War II. The story is beautifully researched, and every detail immerses you in the time period. What truly stands out are the unforgettable characters—Vianne and Isabelle—whose bravery, sacrifices, and resilience are heart-wrenching and inspiring. Their journeys kept me fully invested, and the story’s emotional depth stayed with me long after I turned the final page. This book is an absolute must-read if you love historical fiction that combines rich history with a deeply human story.

• The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World by Robin Wall Kimmerer. This small volume is a transformative read challenging conventional views on natural resources, economics, and wealth. In her beautifully written and insightful words, Kimmerer weaves together Indigenous wisdom, ecological science, and deep humanity to inspire a shift in how we view our relationship with the natural world. Its message of reciprocity and abundance stuck with me, altering my perspective in ways I didn’t think possible. This is a must-read for anyone seeking a richer understanding of our interconnectedness with the earth and a path toward a more sustainable and meaningful way of living.

• March by Geraldine Brooks. This thought-provoking and imaginative retelling of Louisa May Alcott's Little Women explores the untold story of Mr. March. Brooks delves into the complexities of war, morality, and the human spirit, providing a fresh perspective on a beloved classic. While the pacing is more deliberate, it allows for an intimate insight into the characters' struggles and ideologies, making it a rewarding read for those who appreciate historical fiction with emotional depth. Though I didn't find it as engaging as some of Brooks' other works, March still stands out for its rich historical detail and ability to reframe familiar narratives meaningfully. Fans of Little Women and literary re-imaginings will likely enjoy the alternative lens this book provides.

• The Round House by Louise Erdrich. The Round House is a masterfully crafted novel. It combines gripping storytelling with themes of justice, identity, and the complexities of family and community. Set on an Indigenous reservation in North Dakota, the novel follows young Joe Coutts as he embarks on a harrowing quest to uncover the truth behind a violent crime that shattered his family. Erdrich’s writing is evocative, weaving together layers of suspense, emotional depth, and a deep sense of place. Through Joe’s coming-of-age journey, the novel explores the intricacies of legal and cultural challenges Indigenous communities face, offering a poignant reflection on the effects of trauma and the pursuit of justice. The Round House is an unforgettable read, with characters that linger long after the final page.

• The Short Stories by Ernest Hemingway. This collection showcases his signature minimalist style — terse sentences and sparse dialogue — which can be powerful and frustrating. Stories like The Killers and Hills Like White Elephants display his ability to create tension and depth with few words, offering a subtle emotional impact. But as the collection progresses, the repetitive themes start to feel one-dimensional and, at times, disengaging. Hemingway can sometimes leave the reader distant from the characters or the story’s emotional core. Some of these stories might fall flat for those who appreciate a more nuanced, emotionally rich narrative. Still, the collection features standout pieces like The Snows of Kilimanjaro that capture the brevity of life. Overall, Hemingway’s work here, and elsewhere, is hit or miss for me.

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Music:

• Paolo Fresu is an internationally acclaimed Italian jazz trumpeter, flugelhornist, and composer celebrated for his lyrical playing and innovative approach to music. Born in Sardinia in 1961, his career spans decades, blending traditional jazz with Mediterranean influences and modern improvisation. Known for his warm tone and deeply emotive style, he has collaborated with renowned musicians worldwide, creating music that transcends genres. His work, whether in intimate acoustic settings or experimental projects, reflects a profound sensitivity and passion for storytelling through sound. Fresu's artistry continues to captivate audiences, making him a luminary in contemporary jazz. Today, I share one of my favorite albums by this talented musician.

• Thanks to reader

  Chris L.
  for introducing me to the music of Sasha Berliner. Check out her latest single below.

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Poetry:

This month, I read Someday Johnson Creek by my friend

Joshua Doležal

. It is a compelling collection influenced by his time in the wild lands of the Mountain West. Reading poetry does not come easy for me. Yet I repeatedly returned to these pages, the words resonating with me. It is no secret that I long to dwell in the quiet places of this earth, and Joshua’s words called to me—calling me home.

Catchment
by Joshua Doležal

On a hot August day, when the world hangs
heavy with me, I like to walk from a river
along a cedar-shaded creek,
scaling the switchbacks
to a little alpine lake spilling over,
skirting the shore to the scree--
boulders slick and dark--climbing
high among the tumbling rocks
where the stream rushes beneath the stones.
I like to find the source, where I must listen
for dripping water, where
the whole catchment comes home
and I know where I am, how I got there,
and what follows from that resting place.

The author at work. Photo by my son, David.

Drying roses on my counter. Photo by the author.

Final Thoughts:

My son asked for a camera for Christmas. It was the one big gift he received. My parents also gave me a camera for my retirement, so we both had new devices we needed to learn how to use. We went on walks and took nature pictures. We shot photos of the moon. We took random pictures around the house. The drying roses above were sitting on our kitchen counter posing for me. It was a wonderful bonding time between father and son, learning new things and spending time together. You only get this one life and your time is finite. Choose wisely how you spend it.

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Until next time,