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Laurie Klemme's avatar

I don't think it needs an arc. They are independent pieces... like a book of poems. The tone and sensibility are the glue. I doubt all of David Sedaris' books have an arc. Joe, it is a fucking dark time, and your writing is hopeful for its humanity, humility, and charm. Your writing has purpose. I have zero interest in flattering you. I just know this is true.

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Joe Blair's avatar

I know you're not a flatterer, Laurie. Thanks. This loss of belief, or whatever it is, it just happens. You know that. It's always lurking. You know.

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Kate DiSabito's avatar

This brings to mind an old family story of Dave's.Once upon a time,he had an elderly Italian uncle who was homebound.One day the parish priest came by to give him communion and hear his confession.As the priest prepared to hear his confession,the old uncle blessed himself and began."Bless me Father-I ain't a gotta no sins!"

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Joe Blair's avatar

Yeah. I can relate. In the opposite. Bless me father. I ain't got time enough to list them all.

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Martha Chamberlin's avatar

I do not want you to stop writing Always something in that brilliant mind of yours to bring a smile and happiness to your fans

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Joe Blair's avatar

Thanks, Martha. You always bring a smile to my face.

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Glenn E Schmid's avatar

I think the arc is life in general, whiach is not an arc but more of a line. Everyone's line moves differently but we all are born, live and die. Unless of course you are a "time is not linear' person, then your life truely could be an arc. Either way, I know I really enjoy your "obseravations of your line" as I guess all of your readers do. Otherwise we wouldn't be reading them.

All in all it's great to here from you this way....are you bringing your clubs to the reunion Mothra?

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Joe Blair's avatar

Hey, Jet Jaguar. It's great to hear from you too. I'll bring my clubs. Even though I haven't been swinging them much. I plan to this summer though. We should try to get Mickey Taylor and J Sloan. Too bad Dougie's gone.

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Chris Offutt's avatar

PS--A long time ago I heard this definition of plot and story. Story--the king dies and the prince takes the throne. Plot--the queen poisoned the king.

But I like your example better. And yes, it's the oldest

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Chris Offutt's avatar

There is an arc here, Joe. And as usual, it's remarkable. I love this one.

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Joe Blair's avatar

Thanks, brother. Hope you're well.

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Kay Heath's avatar

You can also file it in the "people who live your writing" basket. Fan basket for short. KEEP IT UP, BUB.

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Joe Blair's avatar

Okay, Bub. I'll keep it up. If you keep it up.

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