Category Archives: Viewpoint

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A viewpoint – a point of view – a pause

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I walked past these open gates a few weeks ago, and stopped. I had never seen through them before, or if I had I did not stop. On this particular day I paused and took this photograph. Perhaps it was the light that caught my attention.

I suppose it is the same with all viewpoints. As I tap my way through my year of daily blogging, rattling on about life as it crosses my path, I have in my mind the vague hope that perhaps something might catch the attention of someone scrolling past. Perhaps they might slow down a little and look in for a few seconds. Perhaps some angle will catch their eye. Who knows?

But, if not, the views and the viewpoints still existed – little pauses in the swirl of my life at least.

Copyright Georgie Knaggs & The Phraser 2023

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Are we losing the power of speech?

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There is such a deep pleasure in conversation – the old-fashioned face to face kind. I assumed it would be with us forever and ever … until today.

Today we were discussing children’s literature and the role of dialogue in it. Various examples were shared, and the skill of the writers soon became obvious. In only a few lines, sometimes just a few words, or even a shrug of the shoulders characters came alive, and plot crept tighter. The more we read, the more in awe we were of the hand-picked genius presented to us.

“When I started writing I was told that about 70% of a middle grade book would be dialogue,” our teacher told us.

70%! How did they do it? We analysed and learned, seeing what we’d never noticed before.

“You can always pick up speech patterns and tips from listening to conversations on public transport,” our teacher added, as our lesson neared its end. “Although,” she sighed, “everyone is on their mobiles these days.”

The thought hit me in the heart. She was right. The whole world was going quiet. Might we lose the art of talking to each other in person?

For me the idea is almost too extraordinary to comprehend. I hope it never comes to be.

Copyright Georgie Knaggs & The Phraser 2023

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The meaning of bread

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Bread carries so much meaning.

It is food. It is survival. It is a sign of community. A symbol of hope and love.

When there is plenty, it is taken for granted by those who may never have known its absence. Where there is none, it is treasured beyond measure.

Last night this loaf of brioche – golden and glowing – was presented by an all-female choir of Ukrainian refugees, to their host for the evening. I was lucky enough to get a taste of the delicious bread, and to hear the choir.

It was an emotional evening. There was such passion in the songs, every word ringing out with hope and strength.

Copyright Georgie Knaggs & The Phraser 2023