Writers notice things. The more we write the more we are likely to take note of. Sometimes we should change our viewpoint. When I was at school in Chester, I learned the value to the historian of looking up. Above modern shop fronts you could – and still can – see evidence of the older buildings beneath. Churches are decorated, high up, with grotesque carvings. Country cottages often have curious weather vanes. There are carvings and old shop signs. At the University of East Anglia, look up and see Anthony Gormley’s sculptures. Look up through the branches of a tree or into the night sky. Look up at office buildings, thatched or tiled rooves, a differently shaped window.
What surprises you?
Outside on the street, drop something and pause as you bend to pick it up. What do things look like from that lower angle?
Writing Box 