Dark Oceans and Jaw-Dropping Sunsets
/I’ve always appreciated the soothing value of both oceans and sunsets.
The sounds of the surf washing against the sandy beach is relaxing while hinting at the raw power of nature. Meanwhile, a sunset conjures the reflection of your day while signaling the promise of evening enjoyment.
However, let’s discuss an entirely different context for oceans and sunsets.
The other day, I finished reading The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman.It was an amazing story that conveyed a young boy’s wondrous and dangerous journey around a fantastical realm that adults completely overlooked…and all taking place at the end of his street. I highly recommend the novel for anyone who appreciates young teen fantasy. Honestly, I was near tears by the end over the heartfelt and visceral emotions conveyed through Gaiman’s masterful prose. It was a story that touched me at many levels.
In staying with the Neil Gaiman theme, I have since moved on to reading his 1980s graphic novel masterpiece, The Sandman Vol. 1: Preludes and Nocturnes. My eyes figuratively drink in the vivid, rich visuals while absorbing the text. Yes, I’m a late bloomer to the Sandman series, and I already feel remiss for having missed it for this long. I have admired Neil Gaiman as an artist and international advocate for creativity for many years, and it’s highly satisfying to become acquainted with more of his works.
With Neil, there’s so much to appreciate about both the artist and his art. I’ll always remember the central challenge from his May 2012 commencement speech for the University of the Arts in Philadelphia. He told everyone that, no matter what’s going on in your life, make good art.
I’ve always remembered that, and I return to re-read the transcript from his commencement speech every time I need to bolster my artistic motivation and energies. Take the time to read the transcript or watch the archived YouTube video by clicking here.
Now, on to jaw-dropping sunsets.
Last Tuesday, July 14th, my fifth Sunset Vampire novel, Sunset Rising was released, and the early response from readers has been wonderful! If you haven’t had an opportunity to purchase your copy yet, please go directly to http://jazprimo.com/books/ for purchase links.
You’re going to love Sunset Rising!
Well, that’s all for now. Next time, we’ll talk about the latest superhero installment from the Marvel Universe, Ant-Man! Until then, enjoy life; be kind to those around you, and Happy Reading! Peace.