Monday 12 April 2010

Solva, sun and plotting

I'm just back from the best holiday ever in Wales (St Bride's Bay, Solva, St David's), sea and sun and sleep. I feel better than I have in months. Does anyone here know Solva? I didn't, before this holiday. A tiny working harbour where you can eat freshly caught lobster and crab, buy beautiful pottery and rugs, or just walk until the harbour beach meets the sea, at sunset.

It was in Solva, and on its neighbouring beaches (including the spectacular Druidston Haven which has a waterfall at one end), that I ruminated on the new novel, plotted a lot of it and began to feel it getting under my skin.

The chief sensation I have at the moment is of holding a fledging bird in the hollow of my hand. I must take great care not to crush it. I know roughly what I must do to see it thrive. I'm marvelling at its fragility (and mine), and its power (and mine).

Hurray for holidays! So, how the heck are all of you?

6 comments:

Tania Hershman said...

Oooh so exciting! And wonderful to find a new place, we'll have to head there. Especially if it's inspiring in a writerly way. Lobster novel? See you soon!

Sarah Hilary said...

Hi Tania! Definitely inspiring in a writerly way. Tiny, private-feeling beaches tucked away between high walls of gorse, out of sight of everywhere but the sea. Lunch one day next week? (BTW, I sent the Munro review to Ayo.)

Nik Perring said...

Exciting times! So much to look forward to!

Sarah Hilary said...

Thanks, Nik, yes very exciting. Hope I can live up to my own expectations...

Jenzarina said...

Hello, see my latest blog post, you are nominated for a Beautiful Blogger Award :)

Sarah Hilary said...

Thanks, Jen, what a lovely thing to come home to! I will post about this as soon as I'm back in the swing of things after a short break away.