It's an unpleasant thing that finally brings me back to my blog. I started a few posts over the last few months - a short story about a "Twin Peaks" Grief Support Group, a geeky happy word-splosion about seeing "The Last Jedi," - but I always decided to use that time to work on my manuscripts. My determination to pull no punches around my attempts to publish has spurred me to put aside several distractions over the last several months.*
But alas, what finally pushed me to type a few words is the passing of an icon: Ursula K. Le Guin died earlier this week, at the age of 88. If you're reading this blog, odds are you've at least heard her name, if you weren't an all-out fan. A highly talented, highly celebrated sci-fi writer, Ursula was a role model for writers of all genders. More than that, she brilliantly demonstrated how to use fiction as a vehicle for expanding social awareness. She practiced what she preached--& damn could that woman preach when the timing was right.
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| Receiving a National Book Award, presented by Neil Gaiman...right before delivering a seriously awesome speech blasting the publishing industry. |
The first work of hers I read was in high school, her famous short story: "Those Who Walk Away from Omelas." It moved me. More than that, it shook me. The imagery she presented first delighted, then disturbed me. I have remembered it & re-read it over the years, & I am not exaggerating when I say it has influenced several key decisions in my life. Ursula K. Le Guin helped shape the woman I've become in a mere 2800 words. And I'm crying as I type this.
My deepest condolences to her family & friends. May readers everywhere be blessed with more writers of her caliber & quality. The world needs such inspiration more than ever before. I hope her heaven looks like the Oregon coast, & that it's plush with purring cats.
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| Rest In Peace |
*Your jaw would drop if you know how long it's been since I've watched "Naruto: Shippuden."