I just finished reading a book about Maeve Binchy, I’ve long been a fan of her writing, and certain things struck me.
First of all, the sadness of her experience with Catholicism and the church and how she apparently turned away from her beliefs.
I was also struck by the change of value of one house in the town she once lived in. It went from being “worth” thousands to millions then dropping in value to a lesser amount of millions.
Where she lived was a small area in Ireland but apparently it became wealthy, and known to the wealthy and famous, then it suffered through a recession or depression. Apparently this happened long before it did in Vancouver city and perhaps other North American locations.
Finally, I am impressed by what she did to encourage younger writers through financial awards and other means. I think that may be something Penticton and the other areas of the Okanagan may wish to consider, if they haven’t already done so.
Supporting not just the love of reading (through Raise a Reader) but also that of young writers and older ones too. There are probably bursaries and scholarships etc. but perhaps not enough and perhaps writing should be considered a local industry to build up? Even previously published authors, certainly self-published ones, have a tough time in the rather tight market of books.
On the other hand there isn’t limitless paper nor materials and perhaps it might be best if writing isn’t too widespread an industry/profession?
Patrick Longworth
Okanagan Falls
