Following In The Footsteps of The Greats
Henry David Thoreau did it.
So did Jack Kerouac.
Others include Ernest Hemingway, MFK Fisher, Wallace Stegner, Walt Whitman, John Muir, George Orwell and Jack London.
Aside from being famous and accomplished writers, what connects these illustrious talents?
A quest.
During their lifetimes they each undertook a journey, a sojourn into the world, to better understand the human stories, to experience for themselves the worlds within worlds. They left the relative comforts of lives and routines so they could better tell the tales for which they’re known.
While on these odysseys, each relied on the generosity of family and friends, the kinship of other writers and artists, and the kindness of strangers to provide shelter and creature comforts while they focused on the great works that would later make them famous and enrich the lives of generations to come.
And now, a new talent is on the cusp of emergence.
My friend and fellow writer, Jane Devin, frequently published in The Huffington Post, embarked on a year-long, cross-country journey last October and chronicles her adventure online at Finding My America. Jane blogs regularly, Tweets almost non-stop, photojournals, and speaks before community groups interested in new media and writing. All of this, and she still has time to drive across the country and work on a novel.
Jane’s talent is so apparent that GM is providing her with vehicles and Verizon with phone service. The rest is up to us. Jane usually stays in any one place for two or three days; and she’s thus far been sheltered by generous folks willing to give her a bed and a roof for a few nights. But now, she ventures into a part of the country with no acquaintances and few followers. She could use a little help.
If you’ve ever considered yourself a patron of the arts, consider offering that patronage to Jane. Go to her website. Read her content. Discover what she is discovering and join her on her journey.
And if you feel inclined to offer support, do so. She’ll appreciate it. We’ll benefit.
