The view going onto the bridge. Tasman Bridge, Rose Bay. August 2011.
Ezra and I decided to tackle the Tasman Bridge climb - and you'll be able to see photos of the little bloke atop tonight - and here are some photos to give you an idea of the experience (albeit without the noise of the cars zipping by).
As ever though, it's time for books!
(After this picture.)
The view from the middle of the bridge. Tasman Bridge, the Derwent Estuary. August 2011.
Death Comes for the Archbishop by Willa Cather is a slow moving account of – wait for it – the efforts of a French Catholic bishop (and his mate) to establish a diocese in New Mexico Territory of North America.
Told through a succession of vignettes, the priests travel throughout the America west and meeting a wide variety of characters along the way. Their adventures often take on mythical and religious significance, which deepens their faith despite their differing personalities.
This is a slow-moving book that I am sure would drive some mad. The cool, descriptive narrative is superbly measured, and although she eschews judgement on the actions of those within, she paints her picture to show the many-faceted realities of life on the prairie. For example, through the character of Kit Carson she highlights both his bravery, gentleness and compassion as well as his vile cruelty to the Navajo. Indeed, she makes no bones about the magnitude of the loss suffered by the native peoples.
It’s a beautiful book, and one in which faith (Catholic or otherwise) is not required to recognise. Not for everybody, but I’d heartily recommend it.
The view coming off the bridge. Tasman Bridge, the Derwent Estuary. August 2011.
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