I live on a picturesque island surrounded by other picturesque islands. Sadly when I travel I usually go to the bigger islands--Vancouver Island, Salt Spring Island--or the mainland. Rarely do I travel to the smaller islands. I could. It's available. But I rarely avail myself of the opportunity.
Last weekend was different. Last Saturday I sailed to Galiano Island for the Galiano Literary Festival.
The ferry left at 11 o'clock in the morning. Once on the island, I followed the signs.
I passed the...
and made a mental note to return there on my way back to the ferry.
I walked through the gates to 134 Madrona Drive
passed the...
and into the...
When I arrived the days events were already underway. The keynote speaker, Kevin Chong, had already addressed the audience. The panel (Robert Bringhurst, Annabel Lyon, Mark Leiren-Young with moderator Brad Frenette) was already engaged in a captivating exchange.
I would, if I could, sail a million seas and climb a billion mountains to listen to authors talk about their work.
Here is what I heard on Saturday...
-screenwriters pay special heed to the audience. Depending on the reception of their work, they may immediately rewrite it.
-Some authors completely disregard the desires of their readers. For them, writing a book is a literary dialogue between their work and the books that inspired it.
-Other authors have had to learn who to listen to and who to ignore. For instance, they might disregard comments like, "I don't think your book is very good, just my two cents." However, they do consider the opinion of someone important to them, such as a friend's mother.
When asked why they submit their manuscripts for publication, some authors explained that they felt compelled to do so. Others mentioned that they considered their work unfinished until it was submitted. Additionally, some pointed out that submitting their work was essential for receiving payment.
Pluto's quote, 'Those who tell stories rule society' was discussed.
The question posed: If you ruled society, which group would you support?
The mentally disabled were championed to a room full of applause.
The need for writers to read widely was stressed.
Following this discussion, I had the pleasure of listening to...
Kevin Chong
(I actually spoke with Annabel Lyon.
I wanted to hung her but I resisted the impulse.
She was warm and engaging.
Do you remember when I shared her book Encore Edie?
Well, I asked her to sign my copy.
And she did...)
read from their work.
On the way to the ferry terminal, I paid a visit to the Galiano Bookstore
Then I sailed over the waters to Mayne Island, my island home.
