In 1970, after I’d written J’s the Novel, and a number of poems, (with no formal training in creative writing), I decided to spend a year studying and reflecting on what makes good writing, including where I had succeeded, and where and why I felt I had come up short. (Section one). Section Two offers examples of “masters at work” from my perspective. Section Three reflects on “Why Write” and Section Four briefly discusses other art forms, followed by “An Authorial Postscript.” and these comments were written then, and echoed again now.
Creation of the Artist
Poet on a Boat
by Deane H. Shapiro, Jr
This was written in 1970, in Asia, while reading Hardy’s Jude the Obscure. It is a conversation snippet. On a ship. Heading where? From where? There are “characters” Daled ( who later became the elder person of the Last Harbor); one called Ellis, and a poet.
Johanna comments:
A very honest examination and well-written. They develop your ideas more comprehensively about why write and who is the audience. The place of the artist in society (or whether there is a place for the artist). Good elaboration on the poet’s hope for making the world a better place through his writing. I like the title too, like the conceit of the ship and the different “levels” this offers. It’s a very honest, searching dialogue, each character trying to catch the others out, to force them to see their mixed motivations. Definitely something to put up. Love, J
A Play in Four Acts
by Deane H. Shapiro, Jr
Swimming today, jagged rocks. The ocean palpitating like a jelly fish sway or a breast heaving in an act of love. Frightening, it makes me realize how impotent and small I am, like a speck of dust on the vast womb of the ocean’s roaring surface. Yet once my snorkel mask goes beneath, there is calm, still, quiet calm in which the austere, simple rocks which were buffeted above seem to glow in purple growth, small almost iridescent green coral, splendid blue fish swimming beneath the surface.
Johanna’s comment (2023) on “A Play in Four Acts ” (written in Japan, l970):
Really incredible, a vivid description of love-making that is at first highly sensual and then goes completely sideways. It is powerfully written, especially the “exchange” between you and the ant, your final orgasm, and your decision to write. Strong ending – portrait of the artist. Just great. The language is vivid and compelling !) A powerful piece. Love, J