Reflections after Two Weeks Under the Weather

An epiphany and some steps forward in the Writing Game, in spite of everything

Posting here is a sign of life after two weeks being off my game. And seeing the woods for the trees.

Off My Game

Came down with a cold two weeks ago, which developed into bronchitis. Five days of antibiotics and a host of other remedies later, I’m getting my mojo back.

When I complained to my doctor about how long it was taking me to get over the common cold, he diagnosed bronchitis. He reminded me that I was immuno-compromised, as well as older (I’m 65). I had never made the connection so directly before. Having a chronic condition has never defined, nor really stopped me from pursuing my life the way I want. Now, the doctor gently but firmly advised, I had to be more aware. The combination of the condition, and aging, was inextricably linked. It was a lot to take in, and accept. I’m getting there.

I find the worst of this kind of illness is when you are too tired to watch TV or read, but you can’t sleep. A horrible limbo I’m glad I’ve emerged from today.

The Writing Life Continues

Meanwhile, the Writing Life continues. With some help from a more experienced friend in the arts (thank you JG), I revised and submitted my first grant application to a local city arts foundation for a playwriting subsidy. As much as the financial support, I realized the wisdom of applying to put my name out there as part of the (local) universe of people trying to make art. It also makes one commit to the project- making it real to others besides yourself, even into the future. It felt good when I pressed the “submit” button.

In addition, this week I had interest from a community theatre group in a ten minute play of mine (stay tuned- no contract yet); in weeks past, the serendipity of being involved in more than one playwriting class at two separate Toronto theatres might be paying off in that more than one person of influence is reading my script (my authorized adaptation of Anne Tyler’s Dinner at the Homesick Restaurant). So the stars are aligning, a bit.

Finally, being on social media helps. I found out an AD at a theatre I’ve been pursuing is retiring. Good to know. We’ll see if their interest in the script can be passed along to their successor. Social media can be this practical. And fast with information.

In addition, a playwright here on Substack recommended a theatre worth pursuing, and I got permission from Tyler’s agents to proceed. All good stuff.

What am I Reading?

After completing Alan Hollinghurst’s magnum opus The Line of Beauty, I completed Robertson Davies’s quaint and diverting Leaven of Malice. What a contrast. Plenty of time to catch up on stories when you’re sick. Look here for a brief review soon.

So nice to be returning to the land of the living.

Have a healthy and productive week, everyone.