Squeezing in a quick post this week while I’ve been writing around the clock, mainly for work (grant proposal) rather than my own projects (sigh).
I thought I’d just talk about some random things that inspired me this week…
1. Thor, the movie.
I’m usually disappointed by big budget, action/adventure Hollywood films, but Thor was so good, on so many levels.
First level—a fantasy world that is not a thinly veiled allegory for America, at its freedom-loving, platitude-wagging, jingoistic best. (I love freedom too, but I prefer it with a touch of subtlety).
Second level—a hero who starts off as a (believable) jerk, and ends up as a (believable) hero. Chris Hemworth plays it just right: a swaggering, single-minded hunk when he needs to be, and a broken outcast, later, who quickly gets himself back on track. Bravo.
Third level—Natalie Portman. There is no role too cliche or doofy that she can’t make work.
2. An Archie comics character comes out.
I haven’t read the series since, erm, 1985, but I’m feeling the joy. Positive LGBT media representations!!
3. Beta readers.
Just got myself a new one and—wow—she’s good. Not all writers are good critiquers, and the opposite is true as well. But this new online friend (I can’t reveal her name because she’s shy) really made my week with incredible, thoughtful feedback on a short story I’m getting ready to submit. Thank you (you know who you are).
4. French Open Tennis.
The most obscure Grand Slam event is also, kinda, my favorite. Because it’s an underdog kind of event, and it’s weird playing on clay, and there’s longer rallies, and spins, and strategy, and it takes place in Paris for chrissake!
This year it’s an open field on the women’s side, and, arguably, up for grabs between the top three seeded men. And two of my favorite longshot female players are still in the draw: Marion Bartoli and Li Na. Awesome.
