Admission Statement
I’ve been thinking about this for a while. Typically not reluctant to express myself, I’m one of those people who writes letters to the editor, sends opinion pieces to whoever sparks my opinion, tells people to shut up in movie theaters and generally feels passionate about the healing, exhilarating, often useful effect of communication. My mother says I was born with my mouth open. That pretty much says it all.
I recently mentioned the birth of my blog to a somewhat cynical fellow I know professionally after which he commented with a sigh, “Does the world really need another blog?” I didn’t remain fond of him. And no, of course, the answer is: no. The world does not need another blog. The world does not need another meadow either because, as we know, there are corn fields and wheat fields enough to grow. But that does not stop us from presenting some often very lovely new meadows to the world regardless of inventory and so I proceed, need and cynicism notwithstanding.
Me and one of those delightfully redundant meadows; courtesy of Heather McLarty
Because here’s my thinking: Not only do I have a fair amount to say (and I promise I will say it as intelligently and irreverently as I can muster), but I’ve been around a long time and have lived an eclectic, interesting life filled with many eclectic and interesting people, several of whom you’ve never heard of, all of whom you should. Incredible music has been made, clever stories imagined, profound experiences had — by me and these various people with whom I’ve traversed my life — and it seems to me that some of this damned life and experience and creation deserves to see the light of day. I’m takin’ it on.
So that’s the plan. Stories will be told. Some will be mine. Some will be others’. When opinion is provoked, I’ll make mine known (agreement not required). I’ll explore art that’s touched me in its many forms and incarnations. I will share chapters of my music and writing; include my photography in ways that either illustrate or simply decorate. I’ll argue a point, critique an absurdity, applaud a person worthy of applause. And here’s the bonus: at least once a month, I’m going to feature a story on someone who I believe deserves some attention. Not that my giving them attention is going to change their lives — if only I were that powerful! — but I’m determined to shine at least my little light on the artists, musicians, writers, photographers, teachers, philosophers, etc., that I’ve come upon whose talent, heart, and creativity compels all the light they can get. I’ve got a chunky list of candidates but if I ever get low, I’ll put out a clarion call.
Before I go, about the name: A few years ago a friend and colleague of mine, Suzanne Battaglia, and I envisioned an independent record label that would seek out and sign accomplished recordings artists of the BB demographic (40+); artists who had the spark and talent to warrant success but had missed or were never given the necessary breaks and opportunities. Our big-picture business plan included a film production company and an arts/politics/lifestyle magazine (online and off), both of which would also seek to include artists beyond the youth generation. We felt it was needed – though we love the “youths” (I’m sure I’ll be writing about some youths), we wanted to expand the pool a bit! It was an exciting, refreshing idea and we were able to stoke significant enthusiasm and a solid commitment for financing in no time. Unfortunately, life crises arose for some involved and stalled funding followed and ultimately the idea was shelved. But the name – a whimsical, arty, evocative moniker which struck me in a moment of inspiration – was trademarked and available and still so clever and so I decided to coopt it for this new venture which has echoes of the previous: Rock+Paper+Music.
Ouida Ball, one of the most civil personalities on earth.
Admission is free and on a “stop in when you can” basis. I will write as often as I’m inspired and will welcome comment, insight, contribution and debate. My only demand is civility. I am beyond exhausted with the snarky and vitriolic discourse I too often see online. We can be irreverent – I encourage it! – but let’s have dignified irreverence. “I desire a culture where people of different political and personal persuasions remain civil, decent & open-minded. I’m weary of polarized debate. Intelligent minds can disagree without rancor. Honorable people can accept a good idea from the other side.” That’s my quote. I’m stickin’ to it. Welcome to my blog!
September 3rd, 2010 at 2:42 am
Hey, awesome website. I actually came across this on Bing, and I am happy I did. I will definitely be revisiting here more often.
August 7th, 2010 at 10:53 pm
Thanks, Eddie!
August 7th, 2010 at 5:51 pm
Howdy, your site is on air in the radio! Good job mate. Your posts are truly great and bookmarked. Regards
July 18th, 2010 at 12:16 pm
Have a excellent day! I like this article.
July 11th, 2010 at 11:54 pm
Indeed interesting blog u got here. I’d like to read something more. Thanx for giving this material.
July 11th, 2010 at 10:18 am
Surprisingly, really very inspired, there are very few that can make me impressed!!! Good Read……
July 10th, 2010 at 3:21 am
Thanks, Jennie…glad you enjoyed it. I’ll keep ‘em comin’!
July 9th, 2010 at 9:09 am
Sorry it took me so damn long to get on here and get caught up…this is really beautiful. I can’t wait to read the next one! I think this kind of writing/blogging really suits you. Bring it on…
July 7th, 2010 at 7:46 pm
Nice site and great text.
July 1st, 2010 at 4:35 am
Mr. Brittain: thank you. For all that. I’ll keep the mouth open and flexing…so glad you’re out there reading with me! Lorraine
July 1st, 2010 at 12:01 am
I only want to post quick hi and want to say thanks for this very useful article. I keep looking through the web for some kind of enlightened writing like this. This covered what I was looking for. Thanks a lot.
June 30th, 2010 at 7:52 pm
Leave that mouth OPEN. Keep it flexing. I’m enjoying what I read.
And you both did a FABULOUS job bringing that roommate into this world. Oh, the stories yet to come…..
June 24th, 2010 at 9:09 am
Lovely comment, Linda…thank you. I will enjoy knowing you’re checking in from time to time. Hope all is well and yes, let’s do get together soon!
June 24th, 2010 at 7:53 am
I love it! I know how interesting you are, so I look forward to reading what you have to say. I’d love to get together with you soon. I hope all is well. Congratulations on having the courage to make a difference!!
June 23rd, 2010 at 5:25 am
Sweet soul sistra…what can I say…you have been a witness to so many of the chapters and your support and enjoyment of all of it is truly part of the inspiration. I’ll aspire to keep the discourse insightful. Much love…L.
June 23rd, 2010 at 5:20 am
Glennie – thank you…you are hilarious. I love your virtual dollar bill; more meadows coming up, my friend. love, L.
June 23rd, 2010 at 4:04 am
Have loved your civil discourse since we were 2 yrs old, so am looking forward to another 50+ years of creative insights, soul-searching inquiries, incisive commentaries and achingly beautiful writing. Your soul sistra, Pam
June 23rd, 2010 at 1:36 am
Here’s a virtual dollar bill to stick up on your virtual wall, Lorrainie. It says:
All the best to you in your new venture.
Huge craploads of love,
-GRR
Also, more meadows please.
June 23rd, 2010 at 12:51 am
Thank you, my friend…I’ll do my best to live up to expectations! Your support and interest means the world to me.
June 23rd, 2010 at 12:50 am
Awww, Gracie, thanks. It’s a lofty goal (that raising the level of discourse thing), I admit, but I think I’m up to it! Thanks, always, for your support. Love, L.
June 23rd, 2010 at 12:49 am
“Born to blog”….great line! There’s probably a song in there somewhere. Thanks, Jakie…your support is always, always appreciated. Sw.L.
June 23rd, 2010 at 12:48 am
Thanks, Suzanne…I guess there was at least part of this idea that couldn’t die!
June 23rd, 2010 at 12:47 am
Well now, that’s the exact kind of irreverence I was looking for! What would I do without you, Erick Scott? And watch out, you just may find yourself in here one of these days…oh yeah, my friend, I’m telling all the stories..(well, maybe not all)!
June 22nd, 2010 at 9:35 pm
The world *does* need another blog written by someone as funny, intelligent and insightful as you are! Somebody has to counteract all the nastiness you read everywhere online these days.
June 22nd, 2010 at 4:44 pm
Lorraine, Sweetness. You were so obviously born to blog the same way you were born with your mouth ajar. Lucky me as you know I thrill to read anything you write anytime, anywhere and will eagerly await the latest installment. Blog on Sw. Lorraine! jkie
June 22nd, 2010 at 4:44 pm
This is so cool….congratulations on making Rock+Paper+Music a reality! Rock on! xo Suzanne
June 22nd, 2010 at 3:25 pm
Great Caesar’s ghost woman.
Well, Groucho’s wisdom notwithstanding..”I couldn’t possibly be a part of any club that would have me”, or words to that effect…ok fine, count me an enabler. It’s not like anyone could stop you anyway. Go ahead, fling your opinions hither and yon…yon and thither. Peace, e.
June 22nd, 2010 at 6:31 am
I can’t think of anyone more thoughtful, intelligent and articulate whose blog I might be eager to read than yours. Generally, I find blogs too lengthy and too self-oriented to really engage the reader… but having read much of your writing, my dear, I have faith I’ll be looking forward to yours! Rock on, paper on, music on!
June 22nd, 2010 at 6:15 am
Thanks, Vinny. Feels like it’s a plunge into a whole new way of putting my thoughts in order so it’s really nice to have friendly faces joining me in the journey! Your support is ALWAYS appreciated. Love, L.
June 22nd, 2010 at 5:39 am
Yes. I am excited to have a place to read your thoughts. It is very different to express yourself in print, rather than in speech. I have always valued your ideas, thoughts, opinions for my entire life. Very happy to be on the list. Love.V.