It's Still Life

Joseph Harker returns with an essay on writing, carving out habits to keep in mind, pairing random combinations that feel unlikely but comfortable together. I’m very pleased that Joseph is posting articles again. His latest post is at Carving Wood, Poaching Eggs, and anyone interested in writing should Follow his blog.

Process Notes: Before supermarkets moved into our neighbourhood, we had a fishmonger, a baker, a chip shop, and a chemist. The fishmonger was the first to see his business decline when superstores arrived. He was a huge man, rock-sturdy, and he smoked short, thin roll-your-own cigarettes that smelled like sherry-soaked old velvet. I decided to keep his memory fresh by “carving” his essence into words. The last line has one too many syllables for a haiku but I like the feel of it … so it stays.

The Fishmonger

Smoke and cigarettes,
A toothless smile calls out
Live eels for sale

image is from Flickr Commons, no restrictions.