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 or something that I believe deserves some attention. Not that my giving attention is going to boost a cause or change any lives — if only I were that powerful! — but I’m determined to shine at least my little light on the artists, musicians, activists, writers, photographers, teachers, environmentalists, philosophers, etc., that I’ve come upon whose talent, heart, passion 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!
October 6th, 2011 at 12:37 am
This is the first time i visited here. I found so many interesting articles in your blog, especially its discussion. From the tons of comments on your articles, I guess I am not the only one having all the enjoyment here! keep up the good work.
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LDW Reply:
October 6th, 2011 at 6:26 am
Thanks, Maya. I enjoy the discussions too! Part of the fun of writing is stimulating interesting dialogue; I always appreciate when people write in to take part. Thank you for your own comments! LDW
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November 23rd, 2010 at 5:32 pm
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November 3rd, 2010 at 10:50 pm
Hi there, wonderful article for Admission Statement | Rock + Paper+ Music , do you have rss feed so I can join for your blog? Holly
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November 3rd, 2010 at 6:35 pm
Hey very nice blog!! Man .. Beautiful .. Amazing .. I will bookmark your blog and take the feeds also…
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October 30th, 2010 at 4:16 am
I started, you read, you wrote. I’m off to a good start! THANK YOU for all the kind feedback and encouragement. Nothing means more to a writer than…a reader! And one who takes the time to leave a thought or two. I’m amazed and delighted and will just keep writing. Stop in again! LDW
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October 24th, 2010 at 2:23 am
A Fantastic write up, I will be sure to save this in my Mixx account. Have a good night.
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September 25th, 2010 at 9:12 pm
Not easy to say thank you, me english not so well – but these really good. Good read to practice English.
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September 24th, 2010 at 8:19 am
Me visit you site http://rockpapermusic.com/admission-statement-2/ man times, I want to say thank you for assiting with me English.
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September 23rd, 2010 at 7:52 pm
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September 20th, 2010 at 12:32 pm
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September 16th, 2010 at 8:13 am
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September 12th, 2010 at 5:21 pm
Found this site on StumbleUpon, and I just wanted to say that I appreciated the info!
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September 11th, 2010 at 2:48 am
Your title “admission statement rock + paper+ music…” is fantastic and your site is now working on my old firefox browser. May I use it as a presentation for my students?
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LDW Reply:
September 11th, 2010 at 5:20 am
Certainly, Ellsworth! And thanks for the comment! LDW
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September 10th, 2010 at 3:31 am
You can depend me in for a Digg. Thanks for posting this on your site!
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September 6th, 2010 at 4:13 pm
Hey L
I love your stuff. Brings back old memories. But when are you going to write about our beloved May Lane and the relationship between we neighbors and the idlic life in Richmond; Is it true that my Mom stopped your Dad from running over one of your brothers because she was looking out the window doing dishes and saw your Dad getting ready to pull out and she ran across?? legend or fact?
Marianne (the youngest girl who was too young to know you and the older contingent of your family) I was 4 when we moved to Caturbury Heights. :)
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LDW Reply:
September 7th, 2010 at 4:23 pm
Marianne! So nice to hear from you! And you must be reading my mind…I have been collecting some pictures of all the houses I’ve lived in and plan to write up something about all that coming up. Richmond is obviously a huge part of the saga; actually, the biggest in terms of influence, memories, etc. Whenever I dream of my childhood, it’s always in Richmond, even the later times when I didn’t even live there.
And your memory of your Mom is an accurate one! It’s an amazing Amandes/May shared memory: the time Peg May saved Paul’s life. I actually wrote a short story about that when I was in college; I plan to incorporate that into the blog piece I do. It’s pretty unforgettable.
Thanks for checking in. I’m glad you’re enjoying the blog and I always appreciate when old friends take the time to write in. Hope all is well with your and your family, Marianne. love, Lorraine
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September 5th, 2010 at 10:14 am
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September 3rd, 2010 at 2:42 am
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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
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LDW Reply:
August 7th, 2010 at 10:53 pm
Thanks, Eddie!
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July 18th, 2010 at 12:16 pm
Have a excellent day! I like this article.
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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.
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July 11th, 2010 at 10:18 am
Surprisingly, really very inspired, there are very few that can make me impressed!!! Good Read……
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…
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LDW Reply:
July 10th, 2010 at 3:21 am
Thanks, Jennie…glad you enjoyed it. I’ll keep ‘em comin’!
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July 7th, 2010 at 7:46 pm
Nice site and great text.
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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.
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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…..
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LDW Reply:
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
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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!!
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LDW Reply:
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!
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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
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LDW Reply:
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.
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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.
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LDW Reply:
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.
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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.
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LDW Reply:
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.
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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
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LDW Reply:
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.
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June 22nd, 2010 at 4:44 pm
This is so cool….congratulations on making Rock+Paper+Music a reality! Rock on! xo Suzanne
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LDW Reply:
June 23rd, 2010 at 12:48 am
Thanks, Suzanne…I guess there was at least part of this idea that couldn’t die!
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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.
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LDW Reply:
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)!
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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!
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LDW Reply:
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.
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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.
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LDW Reply:
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.
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