Hello from Bigfork, Montana, where I’m wrapping up a two-month, on/off bike tour of the western USA. (Here’s where I’ve been since early June.)
Six months ago I started writing Notes on Adventure. As I mused in the first post and again in April, I wasn’t sure where this project would lead. What I did know was that there was some thread worth tugging—so tug I did.
Now I’m witnessing a larger writing project unfold within me: something beyond a sociological investigation of “adventure.” I’ve already begun pouring the foundation, but I’m not yet sure of what kind of building will emerge or style of architecture I’ll employ. This autumn, I plan on giving myself a good, long period of stability to write more seriously and play with first drafts.
In the meantime, I have an ever-growing pile of seeds for future Notes on Adventures. I’ll continue working on these as travel, employment, and adventure allow.
Thanks for following along. Your comments and feedback are always appreciated, whether publicly (on the posts) or privately (yourstruly@blakeboles.com).
-Blake
Oh I look forward to whatever you produce, Blake. I am glad you can put some time aside for this.
My 15 year old homeschooler is shortly embarking on his first completely self-organised short trip with an age mate. Mega cool to see him making the plunge and writing a step-by-step plan to convince friend's reluctant parents! The only bit I am worried about - not the rough sleeping on beaches - but changing train stations in Paris with a bike, ie cycling (alone) through paris with a backpack!
I think it’s the perfect time for a book about adventures! Covid and other destabilizing events have shaken us up, and many are looking at their life with fresh eyes. What might the possibilities be, but also, how does taking a leap like that actually *happen*? My teenage son talks about van life with a seriousness that at first alarmed me, then saddened me, and now truly interests me. These young people are thinking up new ways to thrive in and maybe even heal some of the mess we’ve created. Adventuring is having a moment!