My month of cozying up with astrology has come to an end, and I’m so happy to have once again opened this door to self-insight. It turns out I am completely incapable of tamping my expectations when a positive prophecy is forecast, and thoroughly capable of ignoring the more negative indications. As always, I’m shocked at how many predictions were spot-on. Also, integrating these readings into my daily routine, I’ve taken more time than normal to sit back and look at the big picture, and how all the little loose ends of my life may ultimately come together. This can only be a good thing. I’ve just spent some time in Florence and Rome, and I was so taken with what I took away as man’s—our—importance, when seen through the breathtaking frescos, and under the watchful eyes of doting angels and saints. I could easily understand the appeal of looking at life through such a meaningful, complex hierarchy; I was certainly seduced myself—lighting candles for my most cherished hopes, and thoughtfully contemplating hopes and concerns in the staggering hush of St. Peter’s. In its own unique way, astrology brings to us this same sort of bigger picture feeling, even while it creeps up so intimately in the quite personal issues of our own individual lives—as Viv would say, Unus Mundus! This has all led me to a new specific strain of curiosity, taking me all the way back to Renaissance Italy and modern day New York. When the resultant novel gets underway, you’ll be the first to know! I have two in the queue first, so I’ll have to be patient and satiate myself in the meanwhile with lots of fascinating reading and research.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving! I’m more than thankful for all the readers who were moved by the story of Vivian Rising. In its own way, the experience of this novel, and all novels that touch us, wending its way through us all—both bringing us together, and illuminating our individual experiences—makes me think of that same feeling I had in the Sistene Chapel, looking up and experiencing my own sublime reaction, and then at everyone around me feeling the same. In my eyes, art might be one of the most powerful forces around. Now, enough with the serious stuff…start eating! That’s what the holidays are all about.
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