Something that made me sad, then happy, then sad after my friend Nelson died was finding our email exchange about how he wanted to start writing again.
And thank you for thinking me a writer, or at least having the seed — I know that having the chops requires craft. And craft requires time, sweat and not a little bit of Jameson’s. I thought about what you said, though. Maybe essays would be a start; the idea of writing the great American novel is outside both my ability and my reality. I am starting to think that reading email for a living has reduced my attention span a bit too much for that level of dedication. Sad, that. But words will always fascinate and entertain me, so if they find a way to come out in a way that someone else would enjoy — that would be something. Thankfully, some of them entertained you enough that summer to call me in the first place.
He sent this soon after the last time we saw each other in New York, in November 2012, right before Hurricane Sandy. I remember being so glad he was thinking this way. The letters he wrote to me while he was in the army — I’ve written about that era a few times — were a joy. I hoped he’d find his way back to the page.
Nelson and I first got to know each other in a high school writing class — the one I took my senior year that also led me to my friend Lili, who died ten years ago of pancreatic cancer, and to our teacher, Mrs. Kjos, who died of ovarian cancer in 2008. I guess this is what being in your forties is like.
Last night I dreamed that I was reading a collection of short stories Nelson had written, a book he self-published knowing he would die soon. In the dream he was still alive. Waking up this morning was the most bittersweet thing.
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Oh my, you're such an inspiration! Seriously. I'm feeling really amateurish compared to you V. I love this! I love the colors, and I love the style. You get a big A+ from me girlfriend!
Your little Frankie is so cute! I just want to pick him up and hug him. Well done!
Hey thanks you guys! You are so very encouraging an I really need that now I just got turn down for a job that I really, really wanted. The editors the pieces that I did, but the art director thought that I wasn't right for the job! Needless to say I was disappointed. I didn't cry this time. Just wondering what I could have done to make it better. I will be posting the illustrations to my blog so everyone can see. Again, thank you ladies so very much for you kind words and great support! V
this is inspiring....
I'm going to use this on my project... the concept that is :D
I love your sense of humor! Lily is adorable! Great image & you've got a story here!
Whomever turned you down will be so sorry! Your work is amazing--it's beautiful, delightful, fun to look at. (We'll send your Frankie after them!)
Glad you're upbeat! I need to practice that great attitude you have...you inspire all of us.
I love the look and feel of this image Vanessa! It reminds me of The Addams Family or something. Really fun!
Vanessa, so sorry you didn't get the job! I hope they keep you in mind for another project in the future!!
Thanks yall!
Ha ha, very good. I just bought a tim burton movie.
That reminds me of it.
I totally would have dated Frankie. I always had a thing for those weird creative types. Lili's one lucky lady.
Don't fret about the job. Everything happens for a reason! I don't think you could do anything better. It's just one of those weird art choices that people with power make. You're such an inspiration.
I had the same thing happen over a job at PBS kids, (I'll admit I cried) But my life is soooo much better and my job is sooo much better than it would have been if I'd have taken that path. You'll see. Everything will work out. I can tell you're destined for greatness.
thanks Amber! Thanks so much!