Past and Present

Fountain pens and computers, two very different technologies, but I use them both when writing novels. Most of my notes and first drafts are written with the fountain pen. Then, I type the second draft into a computer. Here’s a photo of the equipment at work.

The scene above was my setup at Charlie’s Bar (San Nicolaas, Aruba) this past Saturday, where I was busy plowing through some early chapters of a new book. For some reason, I get more work done in busy places like Charlie’s than in quiet spots like my office. Not sure why that is, and I don’t care to figure it out. What works is what works. Don’t mess with it.

Published in: on March 14, 2011 at 10:23 am  Comments (1)  
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Impromptu Book Event

Charlie’s Bar in Aruba is not only a great place to have a snack and a cool beverage but also a locale where you meet fun people. A couple of guys from Connecticut, USA popped in, and since they read my books, we shared some stories and laughs.

I’m sure glad that fellow in the middle liked the books. He’s a big dude. Ah, all in good fun. I signed a few copies for them and some other people in the bar before continuing with the, uh…, beverage sampling program, which should not be underestimated.

It’s always interesting to hear what people have to say about my books. You never know until you hear it from them directly, whether they liked the parts you expected them to or not or what they thought of the ending. At any rate, see you in Aruba or elsewhere. Happy reading!

Published in: on February 17, 2011 at 11:56 am  Leave a Comment  
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Diaries on Display

The Morgan Library and Museum in New York City has often showcased amazing books. This time, they’ve hit a new high with “The Diary: Three Centuries of Private Lives.” On display, you’ll find journals that range from a pirate to John Steinbeck to a NYC police lieutenant taking notes about 9/11. Incredible.

Check out Einstein’s calculations or Hawthorne’s ramblings or Sir Walter Scott’s struggles after a series of strokes. The Morgan Library has them all for you to review. There’s one from Bob Dylan, too, which gives a great example of depth and breath of this exhibition. As the keeper of numerous journals of my own, it’s a wonderful opportunity to take in the scribbling’s of others, especially in their own hand. I doubt very much anyone would be interested in my musing about artificial reef construction, flying about in a small aircraft, travel through Spain, or island life in Aruba. Then again, you never know.

Published in: on January 23, 2011 at 3:20 pm  Leave a Comment  
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View from Claudia’s, Aruba

Claudia’s is a little bar along Aruba’s Palm Beach. Claudia herself is a charming Colombian lady who likes to chat, sling drinks, and smile the whole time. Here’s a view of the workspace.

Tucked away at the Playa Linda timeshare, you can’t miss the place as you walk along the beachfront promenade. Stop in for a cold beverage, some conversation, and take in this Caribbean scene.

That will thaw your bones on a cold January night, eh? Works for me. I was loitering here a few days, brushing up on my Spanish and making some notes for another Aruba story. There are plenty to tell, more than I’ll ever finish, which is remarkable for such a small island.

Bon dia.

Published in: on December 17, 2010 at 7:14 pm  Leave a Comment  
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