We are born with the urge to learn, to explore, and to wonder. What is around the corner, what is under the bed, what is next in our lives? And - if we are readers - what's next in the book?
Often I want more when I hear a snippet of conversation; but, I never hear the outcome unless I make up my own version. What other people may see and how they might interpret what they see is also a fascination. Yesterday, I received a payment from a writer I'm working with. She had given me a cheque and later decided she would make two payments at once, so she brought cash. I met her in my building's lobby. She gave me an envelope and I gave her the folded cheque. If anyone was watching us (there's a lobby camera) our actions would be open to various interpretations. We looked innocent but not all drug dealers look dangerous.
As for books, some are page turners but the ones I enjoy the most pull me forward because I want to know more about the characters and not just their actions, but their thoughts. When I read a certain type of mystery, I can skim through the gory parts looking for clues. When I read an Alice Munro story, I savour every word. When I read Anne Lamott, I cry then I laugh, sometimes over the course of three pages. It's her utter honesty that is so magnificent.
What's next in my life? Surgery in a few days. Afterward I'll be sticking close to home for a while. Maybe conversation will lead to a story.
What is around the corner for you?
