I love the photographs the warm glow of the lamp, the surprising details that leap out. And above all the sense of play. I think I gave up on studying French because it didn't feel like there was much room for me to play. And because my small efforts were shamed when they weren't quite good enough-- the professor who said my essay sounded like it was written in English and translated into French (It was. I couldn't write in French.) and who said my grammar made him cry. I laughed at the time because it was that or cry. But I didn't take another French class because I had been measured and found wanting.
Your willingness to step out playfully into a tres simple poem inspires me.
Oh, Melanie, that is so sad about that unwise (and unkind) professor. Without play, it is so hard to explore, to learn. I'm happy to share the warm glow of the lamp and maybe a new path lit with kindness and invitation to enjoy the beauty and artistry of French. :)
"What helps us navigate? What grants us freedom? To play, to be? Without fear?" Thank you for sharing this. For me, knowing there is a safe, supportive creative friend or community makes such a difference.
I love the photographs the warm glow of the lamp, the surprising details that leap out. And above all the sense of play. I think I gave up on studying French because it didn't feel like there was much room for me to play. And because my small efforts were shamed when they weren't quite good enough-- the professor who said my essay sounded like it was written in English and translated into French (It was. I couldn't write in French.) and who said my grammar made him cry. I laughed at the time because it was that or cry. But I didn't take another French class because I had been measured and found wanting.
Your willingness to step out playfully into a tres simple poem inspires me.
Oh, Melanie, that is so sad about that unwise (and unkind) professor. Without play, it is so hard to explore, to learn. I'm happy to share the warm glow of the lamp and maybe a new path lit with kindness and invitation to enjoy the beauty and artistry of French. :)
"What helps us navigate? What grants us freedom? To play, to be? Without fear?" Thank you for sharing this. For me, knowing there is a safe, supportive creative friend or community makes such a difference.
A privilege to be with you in community, dear friend. :)