Perhaps there’s someone else out there who is equally surprised, but somehow delighted by the fact that the reclusive author Cormack McCarthy has decided to give his third interview in 40 years to none other than Oprah Winfrey? Surprised: his style of books is not the rosy happy ending genre that is usually featured on Oprah’s book club. Delighted: whenever someone who is ”supposed to be” one way turns out to be another makes for unpredictable humans, which I hope we all strive to be- life is more fun that way- trust me. Good for you Mr McCarthy
For an immeasurably contemplative journey into literature, find either All the Pretty Horses or The Crossing and get dialed into the desolate “equestrian road movie” world of McCarthy. I love his work. For some reason, his books hook into my occasional conviction of the desperate and futile nature of life. But with some hard-heeled snake-skin boot determination and hope thrown in. Sample it!
It was a subdued and joyous gathering at the St. George Village Botanical Gardens in St. Croix to celebrate the life and work of Maria Henle. Maria passed away on February 4, 2007 in New York. Cancer was the demon that took her away.
Frederiksted Sunset
She was a true talent in the Caribbean art world, and I feel at peace in the presence of her paintings. She had a welcoming personality and a fire in her soul, determined to see the world and find the essence of foreign lands through her passionate paintings.
When my wife and I moved to this small island, I was first intimidated by Maria’s talent and openness, but soon found myself deeply engrossed in her stories and descriptions about who’s who in the St. Croix art scene. She had wonderful things to say about everyone, and had a secretive way of whispering when she talked about something astounding or out-of-place.
A fine person – an extraordinary artist has left many memories behind here, and I expect it will take a good bit of time for our community to heal.
Maria, come visit next time I paint. Give me a sign. I promise I will keep spreading your message of artistic power. I miss you, now that your studio is empty of your energy and contagious fire. Thank you for extending such a welcome to join you in your passion. Thank you always.
St Croix, March 1, 2007:
“Above all I am concerned with what I find to be the arresting visual effect of the bags. I can’t seem to get enough of it, really. I’ve had the smaller piece in four other locations at the garden so far and there is at least one more to do yet.”
