Travels in Investigative Reality

Ithaca When you set sail for Ithaca, wish for the road to be long, full of adventures, full of knowledge. The Lestrygonians and the Cyclops, an angry Poseidon -- do not fear. You will never find such on your path, if your thoughts remain lofty, and your spirit and body are touched by a fine emotion. The Lestrygonians and the Cyclops, a savage Poseidon you will not encounter, if you do not carry them within your spirit, if your spirit does not place them before you. Wish for the road to be long. Many the summer mornings to be which with pleasure, with joy you will enter ports seen for the first time; stop at Phoenician markets, and purchase the fine goods, nacre and coral, amber and ebony, and exquisite perfumes of all sorts, the most delicate fragances you can find, to many Egyptian cities you must go, to learn and learn from the cultivated. Always keep Ithaca in your mind. To arrive there is your final destination. But do not hurry the voyage at all. It is better for it to last many years, and when old to rest in the island, rich with all you have gained on the way, not expecting Ithaca to offer you wealth. Ithaca has given you the beautiful journey. Without her you would not have set out on the road Nothing more has she got to give you. And if you find her threadbare, Ithaca has not deceived you. Wise as you have become, with so much experience  you must already have understood with Ithacas mean.                                            -   Constantine P. Cavafy

Realtors say, "Location. Location. Location."  Writers should also take advantage of a sense of place to enrich writing.  The environment can serve as a character, reflect a character or add texture to a piece of writing.  Ithaca for Ulysses meant hope and a place to return. The poet, Cavafy, defines life's journey with a sense of place.

Creative Write:  Choose a town you've lived in, passed through in travels, or always wanted to visit.  Begin with a real or imagined journey.  Avoid judgment and telling the reader what to feel.  

Make the reader know what this town means to you by use of details and sensory imagery.  Show yourself reflected there.  Reveal connections and bring emotion into the story.