I’m glad to hear that the circle of friends you’ve made here have given you a clearer picture of what your writing is about — that’s such a gift. I know it is because I’ve felt a similar thing.
I’m also so glad to hear (even though I knew you were already) that you’re doing this for the right reasons. And I really appreciate that you have been so thorough and honest with yourself in figuring out what those reasons are.
As for proving the existence of 'god' - as you are probably aware by now I hate and despise 'god'. Humans have been largely conditioned to associate 'the transcendental' with 'god', and as such this has destroyed humanity's connection with the real spirit. I'm not even going to talk about the Goddess (or the planetary intelligence) here (although think 'Solaris' - that better explains the transcendental/paranormal/UFOs/crop circles and all that).
I think a better formulation would be that it's not proving the existence of 'god' - it's proving the existence of a soul, and the transcendental. Humanity, in my view, will only heal itself when it recovers this lived experience awareness of the transcendental, which it possessed for like 99% of its existence before monotheism (and latterly atheism/materialism - which is a natural progression from monotheism) came along and severed that deep connection (for purposes of social control of course).
Perhaps it's our job as writers (and, yes, musicians) to help humanity recover this. Good writing is like music. It has cadence. It is mood-writing. Like proper poetry.
There is a spiritual opinion that this planet is designated as a planet of music and healing. Souls incarnate here for that reason...
I hear you, and I respect your view, Evelyn, you know that. I think where I land is simpler. I don't feel a specific task or calling I'm meant to prove or carry out. I just try to do the best I can with what's in front of me. That's all.
As for God, I don't think talking about it here would lead us very far, but thank you for the deep comment.
I like that thing about music as well. I have wonderful music I've created in my head, just that I'm not a good enough technical musician to put all of it into a production that others can hear.
I'm also reminded of yet another one of my favourite Nietzsche quotes - 'Without music, life would be a mistake'.
Writing has much in common with music, the ear plays the most important part in both. As for writers proving the existence of God, well, I have to think long and hard about that, but I like to think I'm one of your tribe, Michael.
Just wanted to send a positive signal. I've just bought two of your short story collections on Kindle, after reading your article and checking out your website. Enjoying what I've read so far. I grew up reading Dick, Kafka, Lem, Aldiss, Pohl, etc., so your style very much appeals to me. We may not be slaves of the algorithm, but something truly does work through us in mysterious ways to fulfil its great work (as per Dick's 1977 speech at the Metz conference).
Thank you so much, that signal really means a lot to me, let me know what you think, I’d love it. You grew up reading Dick, Kafka, Lem, Aldiss, Pohl… that whole line of writers, it really feels like we’re on the same wavelength. I’m glad this is connecting with you. And I do like that idea that something still moves through us in mysterious ways while we’re writing. It feels true. Thanks for being here, really.
Michael, kudos on evolving as a writer! There’s a verse in the Bhagwad Gita I live by. It’s from Chapter 2, verse 47. You have the right to work only, but never to the fruits of your actions.Let not the fruits of action be your motive, nor let your attachment be to inaction. This verse always helps me get the best out of me as a writer. Yeah, eventually, once the book is out I have to worry about the audience, platforms, readers etc. But write to write. The readers will come. You may have a smaller audience, so be it.
This is such a beautiful comment, really. You said a lot here, and I’m really gonna treasure it. You’re such a precious presence, and so much of what you say really hits something in me. Thank you so much.
Well said, Michael!
Thanks, Caitriana! I’m glad you are here :)
I’m glad to hear that the circle of friends you’ve made here have given you a clearer picture of what your writing is about — that’s such a gift. I know it is because I’ve felt a similar thing.
I’m also so glad to hear (even though I knew you were already) that you’re doing this for the right reasons. And I really appreciate that you have been so thorough and honest with yourself in figuring out what those reasons are.
Your example is inspiring, brother.
So glad you’re here. :)
Thank you, brother. That means a lot to me. You’re an inspiration to me too, and you know that. Thanks for being here :)
nICE ONE!
As for proving the existence of 'god' - as you are probably aware by now I hate and despise 'god'. Humans have been largely conditioned to associate 'the transcendental' with 'god', and as such this has destroyed humanity's connection with the real spirit. I'm not even going to talk about the Goddess (or the planetary intelligence) here (although think 'Solaris' - that better explains the transcendental/paranormal/UFOs/crop circles and all that).
I think a better formulation would be that it's not proving the existence of 'god' - it's proving the existence of a soul, and the transcendental. Humanity, in my view, will only heal itself when it recovers this lived experience awareness of the transcendental, which it possessed for like 99% of its existence before monotheism (and latterly atheism/materialism - which is a natural progression from monotheism) came along and severed that deep connection (for purposes of social control of course).
Perhaps it's our job as writers (and, yes, musicians) to help humanity recover this. Good writing is like music. It has cadence. It is mood-writing. Like proper poetry.
There is a spiritual opinion that this planet is designated as a planet of music and healing. Souls incarnate here for that reason...
I hear you, and I respect your view, Evelyn, you know that. I think where I land is simpler. I don't feel a specific task or calling I'm meant to prove or carry out. I just try to do the best I can with what's in front of me. That's all.
As for God, I don't think talking about it here would lead us very far, but thank you for the deep comment.
I am 110% with you on this.
I like that thing about music as well. I have wonderful music I've created in my head, just that I'm not a good enough technical musician to put all of it into a production that others can hear.
I'm also reminded of yet another one of my favourite Nietzsche quotes - 'Without music, life would be a mistake'.
We can say that about good creative writing too.
Writing has much in common with music, the ear plays the most important part in both. As for writers proving the existence of God, well, I have to think long and hard about that, but I like to think I'm one of your tribe, Michael.
Thanks so much. I’m really happy you’re part of my “small circle”, Portia. Really happy.
😁
And then… you know I love your Le Carré style :D
My style is more "Dumb and Dumber", but I appreciate your flattering praise anyway. Grazie mille!
Di nulla, è un piacere! :)
Great post.
This was absolutely the right choice.
Your writing transcends literary genres, and your characters are the real driving force of your stories.
Thanks, brother! And I mean it.
Excellent post, Michael. I related very much to the point of the reader entering the world you created, completing the artistic cycle.
Yes, I think this connection gives meaning to everything. Thank you for being here with me, brother, it means a lot.
You are welcome, ha reading it felt like the most natural thing in the world.
Just wanted to send a positive signal. I've just bought two of your short story collections on Kindle, after reading your article and checking out your website. Enjoying what I've read so far. I grew up reading Dick, Kafka, Lem, Aldiss, Pohl, etc., so your style very much appeals to me. We may not be slaves of the algorithm, but something truly does work through us in mysterious ways to fulfil its great work (as per Dick's 1977 speech at the Metz conference).
Thank you so much, that signal really means a lot to me, let me know what you think, I’d love it. You grew up reading Dick, Kafka, Lem, Aldiss, Pohl… that whole line of writers, it really feels like we’re on the same wavelength. I’m glad this is connecting with you. And I do like that idea that something still moves through us in mysterious ways while we’re writing. It feels true. Thanks for being here, really.
It will be my pleasure to feed back. I'm partway through Fish Cannot Carry Guns. Loving it. :)
Glad to know, girl!
Michael, kudos on evolving as a writer! There’s a verse in the Bhagwad Gita I live by. It’s from Chapter 2, verse 47. You have the right to work only, but never to the fruits of your actions.Let not the fruits of action be your motive, nor let your attachment be to inaction. This verse always helps me get the best out of me as a writer. Yeah, eventually, once the book is out I have to worry about the audience, platforms, readers etc. But write to write. The readers will come. You may have a smaller audience, so be it.
This is such a beautiful comment, really. You said a lot here, and I’m really gonna treasure it. You’re such a precious presence, and so much of what you say really hits something in me. Thank you so much.