I’m listening to classical music right now.
I listen to all kinds of music while I’m writing, often picking particular styles that set the mood for whatever I’m working on at the time. I don’t know why I picked classical today but it just so happens the first piece to come up features a pianist.
As I’m trying to concentrate there is a thing deep inside me that makes itself known. Not a voice, although it certainly speaks to me. Not even a feeling, really. Just a knowing…
It’s my mother.
My mom passed away almost ten years ago and for those who knew her personally I’m sure it comes as no surprise that the sound of a piano instantly brings her back to life in my mind. Music was a big part of her life. As was I. If only two things could be said about my mom they would be, above all else, she loved her kids and she loved music.
Thank you, Mom.
Now that I’m writing I can understand why she felt so connected to her music. Just like putting pen to paper is for me, playing music transferred her to a different world…heart and soul. When she heard the notes rolling gently along, building then receding, they spoke to her in a language only she could understand. It is the most intimate thing in the world. It was her poetry.
The image of her at the piano keeps popping up in my head. Her back is to me, her hands fanned out across the keys. They move with the grace of someone who is part of the music…not the clumsy, clunking poking at them like I do. She felt each and every note she played.
In a way, I see her music in my writing. The ebb and flow of the story, the pace and tone…it’s there. The way a sentence reads, letting it lead to the next thing. The images. For me, I must feel what my characters are feeling. I have to experience their emotions myself in order to express them in my writing. Sometimes that’s a bit scary…like right now.
I see her finishing now…just as I’m about to. She lifts her fingers from the keys gently, letting the music fade off into nothingness…
Just as she does…
Dena, I loved reading “Mom’s Music.” I’m enjoying my memories of her. I remember her beautiful music room. I think Tammy took lessons from her for a while. I remember fun times we had with your family. Your mother was very smart. She knew antique dishes; she wanted to travel; she loved learning; she was fun. I know she had some health problems, but I don’t remember what caused her death. And, sadly for me, I don’t have any memories of her playing the piano. I’m sorry she isn’t here to enjoy your accomplishments and your creativity, but I can tell that your memories keep her close by anyway. ❤️
P.S. I enjoyed “The Byzantine Cross” and eagerly await your next book!
Thanks for your comment, Joyce, and your memories of my mom. I still miss her everyday. And thanks for reading my book! It was a big undertaking, so I’m glad you liked the story.