Today I had to disappoint a publisher's assistant, who asked me to read a novel the company is about to publish. To put it politely, the book seems meant for those with a romanticised view of Paris, who seldom - if ever - travel. Probably the book will be released to reasonable success, but only to a limited audience, in my view. In good conscience, I couldn't recommend the book, but telling her that made me feel bad. It's my Southern upbringing and focus on good manners: "If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all."
Speaking of manners, for purchases made from my online shop, I always include a little gift. I've noticed that less than five percent of recipients even bother to acknowledge this little extra, much less thank me. Seems good manners are falling by the wayside in a world of increasingly short attention spans.
When clearing out books in my office, I came across a hefty volume on Middle East peace, given to me when I first started out as a reporter at the United Nations. The book is signed by most of the principal players in the conflict. Sadly, all but one are now dead, without seeing their dream realised. And it seems the peace process is dead as well. So in disgust, I threw the book in the recycle bin.
I felt upset, as today has proved to be one quiet disappointment after another. I started looking through my photo files, hoping to find something to lift my mood. And I came across these examples of exquisite craftsmanship at Reales Alcázares de Sevilla. Centuries ago, artists took the trouble to create extraordinarily beautiful works of art, often in obscure places that few people bothered to look (i.e. the ceiling in a corridor, above).
Hand-painted intricate tiles (top photo) were applied to a wood base that's today riddled with woodworm. But the room is still standing, despite the centuries that have passed and the ever-changing occupants of the palace. As a World Heritage site, it just needs a little maintenance and no doubt will last for more centuries yet.
So maybe the Middle East peace process isn't dead, but temporarily stalled. Maybe I'm wrong about that publisher's book and it will entertain many readers and bring both author and publisher success.
(And maybe, just maybe I will stop obsessing over things that I can't control. One can only hope)!
Little Treasures Made by Hand
Have you heard about my friend Pia Jane Bijkerk's latest book project Little Treasures Made by Hand? Learn how you can participate here. I own three of Pia's books; all are beautifully-photographed and packed full of information and delightful stories. If you're not familiar with Pia's lovely books or her fabulous blog, you're in for a treat!
As always, click photos to view detail.
Well, I hope your photo journey boosted your mood a little bit because they have certainly boosted mine. These are just beautiful -- every single one. Things haven't been going too well here, so this is a perfect escape.
And like you, I fear for Middle Eastern peace. It certainly seems incredibly challenging these days. And thanks for the link to the guys (Cavender?) in TX -- am loving the blog!
Posted by: jeanie | 06 February 2013 at 22:39
Hi Tara,
I've been following your blog for a while now. I agree that people's manners have taken a downturn, so I feel that it is my job to finally speak up here and say "Thank you." You bring so much joy with your photos and posts. I look forward to them. As for your etsy shop--- I did not know you had one. I'll definitely mark it and recommend it to my friends! All the best, and again, thank you. :)
Posted by: Julie | 05 February 2013 at 18:22
I so feel like a kindred spirit to you! It appears you travel as I do looking at the big AND small things that are around you. I love the cultures and the people...so much more than the surface reveals. Thanks again for a beautiful entry!
Posted by: Margaret Dukeman | 05 February 2013 at 18:14
The tiles are beautiful!
Hope, let's pray the Middle East can find hope for tomorrow and healing. Right now it is shifting and so difficult to see the outcome. Some days are hard to not obsess, those days I have to step back and not follow the news.
How I do love what Pia is doing. Here new book would be perfect for my daughter and would make a lovely Mother's Day gift for sure. Thanks for the heads up.
Posted by: Marilyn | 05 February 2013 at 02:45
The ceiling in the corridor is beautiful.
Posted by: Sheris White | 05 February 2013 at 01:48