Dear diary - 2

 

    Just a quick word prompted by all the wonderful comments on diaries in this post and this one. If you don't already know them you may be interested in reading two books by Alexandra Johnson, both of which I enjoyed a few years ago and would like to revisit: The Hidden Writer: Diaries and the Creative Life and Leaving a Trace: The Art of Transforming Life into Stories (copies available here). While the first 'illuminates the secret world of writers and their diaries' by taking as its subject seven female authors from Marjory Fleming to May Sarton, the second book is on keeping a journal and is both an inspirational and practical guide, whether you're a seasoned diary-keeper or are just starting out.

Comments

[Danielle]

I really want to read the Summerscale book--not sure when it is being published in the US, but it is on my list. I've read Alexandra Johnson's shorter book on diaries that Hesperus put out and I have The Hidden Writer on my pile to read as well as I have a little diary project of my own going on at the moment. Must check out Leaving a Trace as well. If you are interested in reading more excerpts from women's diaries I can heartily recommend Revelations: Diaries of Women edited by Mary Moffat--I read it earlier in the year. They are very addicting when you start reading them. Now I am working on the first volume of Frances Partridge's diaries.

[Ruth]

I have been caught by your enthusiasm... I have ordered a copy of "Leaving a Trace". I only blog but now the seeds have been sown I want to start a journal! :) Thank you. Ruth

[Mary]

As one who has fallen in and out of journaling over many decades, I am looking forward to reading "Leaving a Trace." While I have no dark secrets or hidden affairs to hide, it is always a bit scary to think of others reading one's private thoughts which have always created disquiet in my writing.

[marge]

Can't help but repeat myself (I commented once before) - my desert island journal(s) would be Katherine Swift's evocative 'The Morville Hours' and 'The Morville Year' - English country garden imbued with history, family, and the rhythms of old country life which still resonate in our Billy Whizz lives nowadays.
As for fountain pens, I was bought a small maroon and gold Parker for my first term at grammar school - no idea what happened to it - but my husband and I bought each other, quite independently, a Mont Blanc - his, black gold and chunky; mine, sleek silver. And I have to confess that it is the memory of bags, books, white school shirts and soft furnishings ruined by leaked ink which makes me wary of using mine again - but I love it.

[Cornflower]

Many thanks for that recommendation, Danielle.

[Cornflower]

I hope you'll enjoy the book and keeping the journal, Ruth.

[Cornflower]

I know just what you mean, Mary.

[Cornflower]

Yes, Katherine Swift's books are pure pleasure.