I am a native of Argentina. I write in both English and Spanish and translate fiction from Spanish to English for Spanish speaking writers. I started writing fiction in the year 2000. I had three books published. Two are collaborations of short stories published by BeWrite Books, and the third one, a sole author collection of short fiction "Eighty-Six Eggs" published by Adventure Books, now off the shelf.
I like to write mysteries, but for the most part, human stories. I write poetry, and much of the poet in me spills over to the fiction side.
Hallo Carmen This is a note from England. I have read your item on self-publishing and it was interesting. In my case, I was bitten rather badly. As you know, a fool and his money are soon parted and I will never follow that route again. Fortunately, money is not a problem to me - I don't write for money. It is far more important to me that my story is read. But I am an old man now - 82 - and although I have lots of stories to tell from my long and interesting life I really do not want to get involved in the sales and marketing aspects. So, at first sight it seemed to me that subsidy publishing was the way to go. I don't mind the money aspect - but I do hate to be rooked and the fact of the matter is that to get my money promises were made that didn't have snowflake's chance in Hell of being kept - sorry, not promises, because these people are very clever. But strong implications which are just a step away from promises. I have written a short story about it plus a warning to others and I'll gladly send it to you if you will let me have your email address. You can send it privately if you wish to: davidmitchell@talktalk.net and I will respond. Meanwhile, take a look at my website on www.davidjmitchell.co.uk - you can send me a message from my website. I too write short stories as well as books. But although my list of stories is very interesting (if you contact me I will send it to you if you wish) - but I cannot get a peep of interest over here. They say that there is no popular market for short stories these days. Funny, I used to love them. Also - although I am no poet I felt a little unwell a while ago and went to sit in my garden for some peace and quiet and relaxation. Whilst sitting there and looking at my flowers some nice words came into my head. Here they are:
A little piece of Heaven fell from out the sky one day And it fell into my garden – down Cheriton Bishop way So I bought a lot of flowers for I knew they would grow so well But it was quite a lot of work for an old boy so later, my poor back ached like Hell. But the effort was well worth it and now, as I see, there is an explosion and glow Of colour that will even delight the angels themselves. They will be pleased with me – that I know. Next year I shall try to do it even better (and cheaper) by actually buying seeds to sow. For this year, I formed a square of pots and troughs where the holy plot fell And there I sit each morning surrounded by flowers with my newspaper and morning tea Happy to relax in a small part of Heaven that only I can see But return in half an hour and you’ll find me – paper on lap and snoozing like I do - Thats me ! And then I awake from my nap, refreshed, and ready for the chores of the day I take a last look at my ‘square’ and hope that tomorrow it will be exactly like today ! But perhaps one day I’ll come there and perchance my beautiful plot will be barren Maybe the angels will have grown a little envious of my beautiful display and have taken it back to Heaven For the other angels to see But I’ll keep hoping and hoping that whatever else may be They will take pity on an old man and return it some day to me.
Many greetings David (Mitchell) from lovely Devon, England.
Carmen - Your poetry is beautiful. I've dabbled at times with doggeral rhyme and being an English major in college I can appreciate talent. You have it. Somehow when I think of you and your history, Joseph Conrad comes to my mind. His mastery of the English language always made me smile - strange coming up with 'smile', but I so loved his ability to use this second language. Your writing also makes me smile. - Ray
Hi Carmen: Thanks for the star, but I really hope you take the time to read my book, 'Sands of Time'. All who have read it were extremely pleased at the story and style. It runs the emotional gauntlet, believe me. It will surprise you as it evokes these feelings in you. Enjoy the read, and please write your comments on it. Thanks, Ray
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