Every so often between the pages of a book, I find someone who lives, breathes and walks around in my mind. They enter my dreams and then I miss them as though they once sat across from me with a coffee cup, telling me a story.
This week, I’m grieving a little for Amory Clay. She hurtled out of William Boyd’s Sweet Caress with a camera in one hand and a cigarette in the other. And I loved her.
In fact, I loved her so much, I wish I could be more like her. Amory was a photographer who rushed head-long into the next adventure. With hardly a backward glance, she embraced life, took risks, gave generously and moved on.
It’s possible Boyd wants to make a point about war – Amory takes pictures of them and finds her life affected by those who carry the scars. Maybe he wants to women and the opportunities open to them… I don’t know.
I was inspired, though, to be more Amory. And here’s how:
- Curiosity is enough reason for doing something.
- Caring a bit, is also reason enough.
- Recording my stuff is important – words or pictures will do.
- Whisky is probably a good idea.
- Don’t stop to think about things too long, the moment will pass.
- Breakfast and bracing walk on a bright winter’s day is worth getting up for.
- The plot is far less important than plausible and sympathetic characters.
- It doesn’t matter what other people think.
- A happy ending is not the point, the eventful and memorable journey is.
- Remember that it’s not over til it’s over.
- Don’t expect anything much from anyone else.