Frederick, this piece is one of the most extraordinary works of literary art I have ever read. As you began to describe your journey, I wasn’t sure where you were taking us, but I knew it would be worth it. I found myself hoping it would not end at each spot that I thought it would. And as it was concluded you slowed it down, just like the train itself, a metaphor for long journeys that you can’t sort out until they are over.
You have a gift that is otherworldly. It is autobiographical, yet flows from your brain to your pen with an ease and urgency that clearly comes from a direct connection to the most astute muse.
Steinbeck’s work always seems to me to be of a man trying to impress with his facility in the English language. He uses far too many words to seemingly impress the reader with his “brilliance”, thereby obscuring the power of whatever point he is trying to make. You paint such an incredibly powerful picture of your own personal struggles, with added layers that instruct us on how these soulful revelations matter to each of us, no matter what our background.
But the artistry of your weaving of words, phrases, images, and metaphors is unparalleled in my estimation. You are a writer that comes along so rarely, and with the tools to move mountains one word at a time. In your work you invite us to share an interaction not so different than the one you had with Richard. It is the power of such interactions that will move this ugly world toward places of peace and understanding.
And, btw, I feel the same way every time I am “confronted” with the ugly reminders you described. It is a heinous declaration, even to me who is not a person of color, that people “like me” are unwelcome as well, because they hate me too. My beliefs and attitudes threaten the fertile ground of hatred that they tend so faithfully. It is hard not to hate them too, but then hate weakens us and destroys resolve. I think that we have yet to coin a term that expresses this dilemma. But perhaps each time we open a door in someone’s mind, even by a crack, we begin to unravel the suffocating grip of all the evils we face.
Thank you. I could feel the movement of the train. I dont think I would have had the grace or generosity to sit with a stranger in that way. Learnt from your open heart ❤️
This piece. I'm sitting here with tears in my eyes. You have a gift. Words aren't coming to me other than...I feel gratitude for you. Thank you. For baring your soul even when the world doesn't want to see it.
Thank you. And please keep writing. Rest, heal and know we are here with you. An aging white woman who values greatly the windows you open up for me. Live. K
What a magnificent piece! It resonated on so many levels that it brought me to tears. Thank you for articulating your personal and our collective pain so lyrically. What a gift you are!
Frederick, this piece is one of the most extraordinary works of literary art I have ever read. As you began to describe your journey, I wasn’t sure where you were taking us, but I knew it would be worth it. I found myself hoping it would not end at each spot that I thought it would. And as it was concluded you slowed it down, just like the train itself, a metaphor for long journeys that you can’t sort out until they are over.
You have a gift that is otherworldly. It is autobiographical, yet flows from your brain to your pen with an ease and urgency that clearly comes from a direct connection to the most astute muse.
Steinbeck’s work always seems to me to be of a man trying to impress with his facility in the English language. He uses far too many words to seemingly impress the reader with his “brilliance”, thereby obscuring the power of whatever point he is trying to make. You paint such an incredibly powerful picture of your own personal struggles, with added layers that instruct us on how these soulful revelations matter to each of us, no matter what our background.
But the artistry of your weaving of words, phrases, images, and metaphors is unparalleled in my estimation. You are a writer that comes along so rarely, and with the tools to move mountains one word at a time. In your work you invite us to share an interaction not so different than the one you had with Richard. It is the power of such interactions that will move this ugly world toward places of peace and understanding.
And, btw, I feel the same way every time I am “confronted” with the ugly reminders you described. It is a heinous declaration, even to me who is not a person of color, that people “like me” are unwelcome as well, because they hate me too. My beliefs and attitudes threaten the fertile ground of hatred that they tend so faithfully. It is hard not to hate them too, but then hate weakens us and destroys resolve. I think that we have yet to coin a term that expresses this dilemma. But perhaps each time we open a door in someone’s mind, even by a crack, we begin to unravel the suffocating grip of all the evils we face.
Well spoken
Thank you for sharing this journey with us. And as Richard said, please keep writing. Your words matter. And I’m so thankful you share them with us.
This is so heartfelt and raw. Amazing piece. Thank you and I wish you rest and healing.
Thank you for sharing this with us on such a difficult day. Your voice is so appreciated, and I hope you are able to find comfort, healing, and peace.
Thank you. I could feel the movement of the train. I dont think I would have had the grace or generosity to sit with a stranger in that way. Learnt from your open heart ❤️
I was worried to read your post today, because it is a hard day, but thank you. Absolutely you must keep writing.
We all needed this today. Thank you.
Brother, this was a masterful retelling. *Applauds in Strangé*
Thank you. ❤️
This piece. I'm sitting here with tears in my eyes. You have a gift. Words aren't coming to me other than...I feel gratitude for you. Thank you. For baring your soul even when the world doesn't want to see it.
Thank you. And please keep writing. Rest, heal and know we are here with you. An aging white woman who values greatly the windows you open up for me. Live. K
This is beautiful. I love your writing.
What a magnificent piece! It resonated on so many levels that it brought me to tears. Thank you for articulating your personal and our collective pain so lyrically. What a gift you are!
this was beautiful and exactly what i needed to read today. thank you ❤️
This was incredible. Thank you.
I really enjoyed this. Thank you 💕