Heroes Not Zombies

There can be no really ambitious writing without an acceptance that other people will do what they like with your work, and change it almost beyond recognition.

Montaigne’s essays were edited and published in several different forms over the years, each publisher applying their own take on the text to present him and his writings in ways which were consistent with their own values and the particular fashions of the time. But he also had individuals, in particular Marie de Gournay, who championed him and published him as fully as possible.

The truth is all writing is read and each reader brings themselves to the text. The author really has no control over that.

I took a decision many years ago to use this blog format to publish some of my own photos and words. I’ve very little idea who will see the images, who will read the sentences, and whether or not they’ll be touched or moved by them. Over the years I’ve become familiar with some of you and I’ve received some really fabulous feedback. Thank you to all of you. I’m very grateful.

I do think that the moment I hit the “publish” button I let go and I hope that anyone who encounters the posts will be inspired, delighted or moved by some of them……but once they’re out there, they are really out of my control. And I’m totally fine with that.