I took these photos on my walk today. I'm pleased with how they turned out, considering that I have to time everything perfectly and hope the shot is in focus with my ancient camera (because I can't tell without my glasses, and since I don't need them for distance, I don't bring them when I'm out walking). There were lots of dragonflies darting around the pond today--the first sunny day in nearly a week. (Click on a photo for better viewing.)
Have I ever mentioned that the title of my finished novel is Dragonfly? It's set in 19th century Massachusetts. The heroine is a young woman who studies dragonflies and makes detailed paintings of them. In the story, she encounters the fantastic, finds herself at the center of a dangerous mystery and falls in love. At the heart of Dragonfly is the frailty of human perception. I hope to tell you more about it one day. ♥
Right now, I'm heading out back to sit by the pool and read. I haven't yet finished The Firebird, by Susanna Kearsley, but I've decided to put it aside. It's a bit slow paced for me and lacks a compelling conflict. I had the same trouble with Winter Sea. However, both stories started with a great idea, and Kearsley has a nice storytelling voice. Instead, I'm reading some of Leo Tolstoy's short works and enjoying every minute of it. I think I will bring out my colored pencils and illustrate some of my diary entries, too. After that, maybe I'll take a swim before it's time to get the grill going for supper. : )
I love the synopsis for your story, it reads so beautifully - a real lure. Somehow, the words capture the delicate old-fashioned but magical nature of the story. And how great for you to get such wonderful photographs of dragonflies!
ReplyDeleteI am so looking forward to the inevitable day when your book comes on sale :-)
Thank you, my friend. ♥
DeleteOh, you have such a difficult life.... :D
ReplyDeleteWell, I try to keep my chin up, you know. ;D
DeleteThose are great photos! I couldn't get those with my fancy camera. ;-) Thanks for telling us more about your book!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Brandy. I'm beginning to develop an affection for my old, cheap, bulky Kodak. I do think it takes a better photo than the newer and more expensive camera which broke on me a few months back.
DeleteI confess, as a child I feared the dragonfly! As an adult I think they are beautiful and wonder what my problem was as a child. I think santa should gift you an new camera and some progressive lens (for glasses). I wear progressive lens with a teeny tiny correction for distance-now I can see!!!! Love your photos :)
ReplyDeleteIn researching my novel I read a lot of dragonfly lore. Apparently, they were known as the "Devil's darning needle" and some feared that the dragonfly could sew your lips shut. That story scared me a little.
DeleteI'm glad you decided to trust your other senses to get the dragonfly shots -- they are very nice indeed. My first question after reading your novel synopsis is how did the main character become so interested in dragonflies? I guess I will need to read the book and find out for myself!
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately, that little bit I shared really doesn't tell much about the story. I hope to provide a better blurb in the future. For now, I must keep everything a secret. : )
Delete