Notes
#meetthewriter - Companions: Whose writing do you keep nearby and dip into often for inspiration?
I have work from a variety of writers and artists that hold a special place on my bookshelves (or by my couch or bed.) Right now, my most visited companions are Mary Oliver’s “Devotions” from which I try to read a poem a day, and ’s “The Way of The Fearless Writer.” I suspect book will soon be joining those ranks. I also frequently dip into nature reference and ID books, covering local birds, plants, insects, ethnobotany, and more, which are essential for learning and fact checking both for my personal enjoyment and writing.
Then there are my children’s books - picture books to novels - some of which are favourite old companions from childhood, while others gems (like “Gwinna”, and “Stranger In the Woods”) I picked up more recently as an adult. Both the art and writing draws me to these.
In the adult realm, Robert Bateman’s books also inspire my writing and photography. His paintings and words speak to me about colour, form, composition, and a deep respect for the natural world.
I also have a number of creative non-fiction books about horses and spirituality that have invited me into a deeper understanding and relationship, not just with horses but with all animals and myself. I’ve read “Horses and the Mystical Path” by the McCormicks multiple times, and also revisit Linda Kohanov’s and Mark Rashid’s books. Rashid’s books are less mystical than the others, but I love his heartfelt and straightforward style of storytelling.
From books on nature, horses, writing, and spirituality, I find nourishment, inspiration, and companionship.
