As a writer, I’ve had my share of dreams and fantasies. I’ve long since abandoned many of them—Pulitzer Prize, MacArthur Award and various other honors in a galaxy far, far away. But then there are dreams and fantasies that may be highly unlikely, but not necessarily impossible. One of those is to tell my literary heroes (living, of course) how much their writing has meant to me. And to hear back from them.
This is a lovely piece! I'm going to look for the book and take it with me this summer. The only better thing would be to have you with us! Fingers still crossed...somehow!
Mon cher Richard , always a delight to read you. I fondly remember when I visited you in the south of France but can’t recall how the villagers reacted at that time. I obviously enjoyed reading French Dirt. Coming to Paris soon you will experience how the Parisians react to foreigners and in particular Americans. Don’t hold your breath ; let’s simply enjoy what the city has to offer
Richard, I too loved Laurene Wylie's book and have re-read it several times. I actually audited a few sessions of Wylie's course at Harvard when a friend was taking it. That was back in the late 1950's so the book and his experiences were still very much present. As you know, I've also experienced European village life very directly and Wylie's book, as well as yours (French Dirt, you never mentioned the title!), have both meant a great deal to me. Like Wylie, like you, I'm tired of cute Eurovillagers with their quaint ways as depicted in Mayles and Mayes. You go so far beyond that. Thank you!
Beautiful piece. There’s nothing quite like the power of appreciation from someone whom you admire. Early in my career I was an executive speechwriter. I had an opportunity to write for a motley crew of Fortune 500 CEOs and politicians from mayors to governors. Only one took the time to send a personal, hand-written thank you note for the words I crafted for her. It’s closing on 40 years. And I have it still.
Oh Richard, what a wonderful letter and how felicitous that you took the trouble to write to him. He was right about French Dirt - I've said often what a masterpiece of it's kind it is. Looks like Americans are better on France and the French than we Brits, perhaps because of ancient rivalries and consequent caricatures.
Thanks so much for sharing this- now I'll look for the Wylie book.
You were that writing teacher for me. You had more influence on my writing than any other person and I’ve have some great teachers, but you are the best. Still hoping to make you proud.
A touching story. And yes, the book is still being sold and read 50 years later! This is a bigger recognition than the Pulitzer Prize (IMO).
Beautiful story. Love to see the letter as well. You'll have to come to the Baronnies Provençales!
This is a lovely piece! I'm going to look for the book and take it with me this summer. The only better thing would be to have you with us! Fingers still crossed...somehow!
Mon cher Richard , always a delight to read you. I fondly remember when I visited you in the south of France but can’t recall how the villagers reacted at that time. I obviously enjoyed reading French Dirt. Coming to Paris soon you will experience how the Parisians react to foreigners and in particular Americans. Don’t hold your breath ; let’s simply enjoy what the city has to offer
Richard, I too loved Laurene Wylie's book and have re-read it several times. I actually audited a few sessions of Wylie's course at Harvard when a friend was taking it. That was back in the late 1950's so the book and his experiences were still very much present. As you know, I've also experienced European village life very directly and Wylie's book, as well as yours (French Dirt, you never mentioned the title!), have both meant a great deal to me. Like Wylie, like you, I'm tired of cute Eurovillagers with their quaint ways as depicted in Mayles and Mayes. You go so far beyond that. Thank you!
What a lovely story. And what a lovely thing to do. Let someone know they made a difference in someone else's life.
Beautiful piece. There’s nothing quite like the power of appreciation from someone whom you admire. Early in my career I was an executive speechwriter. I had an opportunity to write for a motley crew of Fortune 500 CEOs and politicians from mayors to governors. Only one took the time to send a personal, hand-written thank you note for the words I crafted for her. It’s closing on 40 years. And I have it still.
Of course, I'm going to read this book. But I can't imagine it will be as good as your Provence adventures. :-)
How wonderful to get that genuine response from him. Now I'll have to hunt up his book---and reread yours. I loved it the first time.
Oh Richard, what a wonderful letter and how felicitous that you took the trouble to write to him. He was right about French Dirt - I've said often what a masterpiece of it's kind it is. Looks like Americans are better on France and the French than we Brits, perhaps because of ancient rivalries and consequent caricatures.
Thanks so much for sharing this- now I'll look for the Wylie book.
Wonderful. Thank you.
You were that writing teacher for me. You had more influence on my writing than any other person and I’ve have some great teachers, but you are the best. Still hoping to make you proud.