Memory is a funny thing. An internet group of which I am a member currently has a theme of 'A'. I have been meditating on the letter in the hope of 'extreme' inspiration, even though I don't really have time to do anything yet. In the midst of all this there was one word that continually came to mind - 'Axel'. It seemed to come from somewhere deep inside and I rejected it several times before realising that it actually had some meaning. Many years ago - far more years than I would like to admit - I was recommended a book by a very good friend. Although I haven't read it for a long time it is one of the few books I have read time and time again. At the time it opened my eyes to a new world and today I was surprised to discover that it was written almost 100 years ago...
'The Story of San Michele' was first written in 1929 as an autobiographical account of the life and work of Axel Munthe. Written in English, even though its author was Swedish, it has continued to be published and is readily available even today(scroll down and read the review). At the age of 18 he visited the site that he determined to make his home. The book describes an almost idyllic existence that is more than tinged with reality. Reading the names of some of the people with whom he associated and by whom he was influenced is amazing. The house and garden that he created is open to visitors and, judging by the pictures on this site, worth more than one visit.
I am still hopeful that one day I will visit Capri, it has been an idea that has lain dormant for a very long time..........
I'd be interested to know if you have read the book - or if you decide to do so now.
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I will try to read this book. My dear niece that passed away from
ReplyDeletebreast cancer was always telling me she wanted to take me to
Capri.
I've never read it - and if my book list wasn't already a million miles long I might go read it!
ReplyDeletehaven't heard of the book... what is this internet group, letter of the week/month? Sounds like an interesting proposition! When I think of A, it's for apple. I know, pretty lame... guess I'm an educator at heart! {:-D
ReplyDeleteWhat an interesting concept - taking a letter a day - finding a word then ponder what and why did I come up with that particular word. A good way to look back into our subconscious of things long forgotten.
ReplyDeleteSince I love to read, that book sounds very interesting, may have to check it out!
Thanks for sharing.
Interesting post. Sounds intriguing and I am not adding it to my book stack. I'd love to read more details in another post however.
ReplyDeleteHmm... I might have to add this one to my reading list.
ReplyDeleteWell, there we are! never thought the prompt would be so thought provoking! I will have to look for the book and see why it means so much to you!
ReplyDeleteThanks for posting about the group here.
Sandy in Bracknell