"If a true artist were born in a pigpen and raised in a sty, he would still find
plenty of inspiration for his work. The only need is for the eye to see." --Willa Cather
Hubby and I participated in a 5K walk a couple of weekends ago, a walk billed as a non-competitive event called a "Volksmarch"--German for people's march--and sponsored by the local Germania Society. The walk "for exercise/health enthusiasts and nature lovers" took us through the Society's park and then out on local roads and back. Though the morning started out gray and raw, the sun soon broke out in full and provided for a gorgeous fall day, brisk and energizing, which was shared with quite a sizable crowd.
Ideas began to kick in. "What can I do with this character? What story would he tell?" It wouldn't be the first time a pig figured predominantly in literature. After all there's Wilbur in E.B. White's Charlotte's Web, the endearing Piglet in A.A. Milne's Winnie-the-Pooh, and Babe in Dick King-Smith's stories. Recent times bring us to Holly Hobbie's Toot and Puddles, Ian Falconer's Olivia, and Mercy Watson by Kate DiCamillo.
Yes, inspiration can be found anywhere--as long as we keep our eyes open and really see.
btw, it didn't hurt, either, that the Germania Society offered a smorgasboard of food in their Klubhaus following the walkers' return to the starting point. We sampled homemade schnitzel, sauerkraut, wursts, German potato salad, and apple strudel. Talk about inspiration. Imagine a trip to Germany...hmmm.
Any flashes of inspiration for you recently? Where did you "see" them?
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That little piggie is absolutely adorable, and I commend you for all the references to pigs in literature. There's also The Three Little Pigs, and one of my all-time favorite picture books, that I had to read at least twice each year for Lapsit and Storytime programs: The Pig in the Pond by Martin Waddell. (Such a fun story to ham up.) {Pun intended.}
ReplyDeleteCathy, I've got to get The Pig in the Pond! It sounds adorable and something I'll want to share with the grandkids. (Loved your pun btw :-)
DeleteA pig! What a funny surprise! Can't wait to have you guys here... and hopefully you'll have plenty of inspirational surprises!!!!! See you soon!
ReplyDeleteSuzan, the pig was a surprise, that's for sure. And I have no doubt, there will be many opportunities for inspiration in the days ahead when we see you. Can't wait! More on that later, here... :-)
DeleteWhat a fun event and darling surprise! There's something about a small pig that's just adorable. One of my critique partners is writing a freelance detective story for something with a pig sleuth.
ReplyDeleteI think that, while personal inspiration comes to me from landscapes and trees and the feeling that I should remain humble and keep perspective during my relatively few years on Earth, my writing inspiration often comes from overheard situations/conversations :)
Whoa, Jess, your friend's premise for a book sounds very interesting :-) And I find your thoughts on what inspires you personally to be uplifting and insightful. Thanks so much for sharing.
DeleteThat piggie is so adorable. I want to write a story (Picture Book) on him.
ReplyDeleteRachna--feel free to use the little guy as inspiration! I'd love to read the story you might come up with. Good luck :-)
DeleteAh, what a cute little fellow! Yes, I can see how he would be inspiring. I agree, inspiration is everywhere. My last jolt of it came while thinking about hockey. Go figure. :)
ReplyDeleteHockey? Hmmm, I wonder where that idea took you...? Thanks, Karen :-) Have a great weekend.
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