first proof copy

i just ran home to rip open the awaiting package : the first proof copy of my book! taking a breath to hold it in my hands while my mind turns over every detail and plots dozens of adjustments within seconds, but first - gratitude.

for this first solid crystal of many late-night scribblings by candlelight.

many crooked attempts to distill into words a love that lives happily far from their reach.

but as it descends into form, picks up cardboard skin it becomes shareable, a thing for other hands to hold and pass around.

a twisted rope ladder from my heart to yours.

I fully redesigned it when I discovered these adorable tiny books, so that it fits like these pocket holy texts (the one at the bottom with the gorgeous print is siddharta)…

I spend (too much time maybe?) thinking about the end of a product’s life cycle. in a world overstuffed with stuff, i’ve delayed a long time bringing another “thing” into the world. So I’m making sure that when I do, it is an object that carries with dignity all of the love poured inside - sustainable, prayerful.

Happily for me that’s easy to find in Germany where companies are so eco-conscious and efficient.

In this form I imagine the book as an ally, like the books of Baudelaire and Rumi that just lived their lives in my shoulder bag...

Off to paint a couple of small datura flowers to add to the chapters, then ordering the new proof today.
Thanks for witnessing.