The sharp tang of vinegar and the soft curve of her cheek pull me from where I linger. A change from seaweed and jagged rocks. She gazes out to sea, clutching a bag of chips like a life raft. Tears in familiar eyes make my chest ache, but I can’t think… I don’t know… I’m not sure… My tiny shadow wraps her cold hand in mine. “Daddy, don’t you remember?” I glance behind us. Only one set of footsteps trail across the beach, and I find it difficult to breathe. My little girl tugs my hand. Insistent. Why is she so wet? I hold her tight against me and try…
-
-
Resounding Past: Rediscovering Ancient Roman Music
In the heart of ancient Rome’s bustling streets and grand amphitheaters, a symphony of melodies echoed through the tapestry of everyday life. Music, an integral part of Roman culture, transcended mere entertainment, weaving itself intricately into the fabric of society, ceremonies, and communal celebrations. The Romans viewed music not just as a form of artistic expression but as a vital element that animated their existence. Its echoes reverberated through the cobbled streets, resonating in the grandeur of temples, theatres, and humble households alike. Encompassing a diverse array of sounds, instruments, and rhythms, music was ubiquitous in Roman life. Whether it was the melodic hum of the tibia or the rhythmic…
-
Uncorking the Mystery: Bacchus Roman God of Wine
In the vast pantheon of ancient gods, few evoke the mystique and allure quite like Bacchus. Revered as the Roman god of wine, fertility, and revelry, Bacchus shares striking similarities with his Greek counterpart, Dionysus. Here we delve into the captivating world of Bacchus, exploring his mythological origins, comparing him to Dionysus, and uncovering intriguing stories about his birth and cult. Bacchus vs. Dionysus: Though often seen as interchangeable, Bacchus and Dionysus, the respective Roman and Greek gods of wine and revelry, embody the duality within their shared domain. Dionysus, a youthful and androgynous figure, reflects the Greek ideals of divine madness and the cyclical nature of life and death.…
-
Flash Fiction Firestarters: 10 Tips to Spark Your Imagination
Flash fiction presents a unique challenge for writers: crafting complete narratives within a limited word count usually between 1000 and 1500. Yet, within this brevity lies immense power. Flash fiction can evoke strong emotions, spark imaginations, and leave a lasting impact on readers. If you’re intrigued by this dynamic form and eager to explore its potential, this guide offers 10 essential tips to unleash your creativity and master the art of flash fiction. 1. Captivate with a Compelling Concept Every word in flash fiction carries weight. Begin with a clear and captivating concept that resonates with you. This could be a poignant moment, a quirky character, or a thought-provoking idea.…
-
Unravelling ‘Past’ and ‘Passed” – Mastering the Distinction
In the English language, homophones can be a source of confusion for writers and speakers alike. Two such words that often cause confusion are “past” and “passed.” I must have spent 5 minutes arguing with myself on the correct word for the following: “The days passed slowly. No one answered her indignant cries or her soft pleading, whenever she heard someone linger near the cell.” I dithered backwards and forwards between the two and finally remembered my grammar lessons. So while they sound similar, they have distinct meanings and applications. Understanding the difference between these two words is essential for effective writing. In this article, we’ll explore the meanings of…
-
Where Rome Never Falls – Romanitas book review
“Romanitas” by Sophia McDougall is an imaginative alternate history novel that explores a world where the Roman Empire never fell. It’s a gripping tale that combines elements of political intrigue, character-driven drama, and speculative fiction to create a thought-provoking narrative. Romanitas – Follow the link to Amazon UK, as part of my Affiliate programme. Plot Overview:The novel is set in a modern-day world where the Roman Empire continues to thrive and dominate the global stage. The story follows three main characters: Gaius, a Roman Praetorian Guard; Lucius, the rightful heir to the throne; and Una, a British slave who possesses a secret that could change the course of history. The…
-
How I Traditionally Published My Book Without an Agent
Guest Post by JB Harris, Author of The Immigrant’s Wife Meet JB Harris, an author who has successfully navigated the complexities of traditional publishing. In her post titled “How I Traditionally Published My Book Without an Agent,” JB candidly shares her journey, shedding light on the process of securing a traditional publishing deal without the aid of an agent. Drawing from her own experiences, JB offers insights and practical advice, providing a glimpse into the less conventional path to traditional publishing. Her narrative serves as a valuable resource for aspiring authors seeking to understand the dynamics of the publishing industry. Join me as we explore JB Harris’s account, gaining valuable…
-
The Shimmering Legacy: Glass in the Roman Empire
The Wondrous Journey of Glass in the Roman Empire In the grand tapestry of human history, few inventions have left as indelible a mark as glass. This transparent marvel has shaped entire civilizations, from its ancient origins amidst the mystique of Mesopotamia to its transformation into a cherished art form within the majestic realm of the Roman Empire. As we embark on this captivating journey through time, let us delve into the fascinating history of glass in the Roman Empire – from its serendipitous discovery to its multifaceted applications and artistic evolution. The Birth of Glass The enchanting tale of glass commences over four millennia ago, amidst the cradle of…
-
Awesome Ancient Aqueducts Of Rome
In the heart of ancient Rome, amid the grandeur of temples, bustling forums, and majestic coliseums, lay a network of engineering marvels that ensured the city’s survival and prosperity—the aqueducts and water systems. These monumental feats of engineering, designed with precision and executed with remarkable craftsmanship, provided Rome with the lifeblood of civilization: clean, flowing water. In this exploration of ancient Roman aqueducts and water systems, we delve into their construction, the visionary designers behind them, their incredible reach, ingenious drainage solutions, and their role in powering street fountains and sewer systems. 1. The Architects of Innovation: The construction of Roman aqueducts and water systems was a testament to the…
-
Apicius Recipes For The Modern Kitchen 6: Wild Boar (Ofellae Aprugneae)
Continuing our culinary journey through the pages of Apicius’s ancient Roman cookbook, I find myself drawn deeper into the rich tapestry of flavours and traditions of this remarkable era. These recipes are not just a taste of history; they’re a connection to a time when food was both sustenance and celebration. Today, we explore “Ofellae Aprugneae,” a dish that embraces the hearty essence of wild boar and the elegance of Roman culinary expertise. Join me as we venture into the world of Apicius once more, adapting this for a modern kitchen. Ingredients: Instructions: With our modern twist on “Ofellae Aprugneae,” we pay homage to the Roman love for wild boar…
