Next in the challenge is R for rivers. The inspiration for the post comes from my writing life. Although too many of my works have been created in hospital rooms and doctors’ offices, my favorite places to write were outdoors under the blue skies, especially in the serenity of a waterfront perch.
Rivers and coastlines have also crept into the fantasy worlds I love to visit. The Delwaree River in the Dragshi Chronicles paid homage to the Delaware River that I grew up near. And in later years, that I bicycled the canal tow path alongside the river.
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| Delaware River Bridge, Frenchtown NJ |
Rivers play an important part in the Windmaster Novels. In Windmaster Legacy, Dal and Ellspeth and their party are stranded on one side of a raging river. Even though they admitted the height and ferocity of the current was not usual, the ferry boat captains have agreed to make one trip across. Here is the start of the crossing.
A spot on the pier with shelter from the spray provided a clear view not only of the Ilar, but also of the ferry and the waiting passengers and fàlaire. Dal placed Ellspeth on his left. Her presence provided a reassurance he was not yet used to, but treasured anyway. Barris stood on Dal’s right side. The boy radiated such tension Dal fought down a smile at the youth’s determination. Murdo, standing at the ferry, held a bright orange scarf above his head. After a quick glance at his wife and apprentice, Dal returned his gaze to the fluttering signal flag. Wind whipped his lowered voice out into the distance.
“Air unsettled now be calm,
White capped waves be still.
High mountain storms and rain to cease,
Currents slow and floods to ease.
Selah so mote it be.”
Ellspeth’s soft tone joined Dal’s on the second chorus. His promise token warmed in response to her magic and dispelled the early morn’s chill. Barris’s light tenor came in. Dal noted with half his attention how Barris carefully enunciated the spell. By the second repetition of the incantation, the wind no longer blew in fury. The scarf in Murdo’s hand hung limp in the now-calm air.
You will have to read Windmaster Legacy for the rest of the journey.
In recognition of these precious places, a photo array from lakes and rivers I have sat beside.
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| Raritan Bay, note lower Manhattan on the horizon. |
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| Reelfoot Lake, Tennessee |
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| Crescent Lake,Pennsylvania |
~ I hope you enjoyed this excursion into my writing life. till next time, Helen
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As a family historian I've found that water ways, especially rivers, have become an important reminder of our connections to both the land beneath our feet and all the ancestors who have come before us, no matter where their origins may have found them on the planet. Our interconnectedness is undeniable.
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad you've found their importance for/to you as well :-)
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