For a few days, I have been unable to access the “posting” part of this blog, try as I might. In the meantime, that situation has been alright with me, insofar as I have been very preoccupied with a number of other tasks. I have begun writing a major book for a commercial publisher: yes, about textiles! As always, when undertaking such a project, it is an exercise in expanding the knowledge I already have by following up on finer points of research. I love to learn. For me, the fun is in the details!
I brought a quilt downstairs that I’d pieced and begun to quilt a couple of years ago, thinking that I’d do more hand quilting on it, sitting in front of the television. I find that I rarely engage in such an activity (watching TV, that is), and when I do, I want a break from doing anything with my hands, as I’m having flairs of carpal tunnel syndrome again from typing so much. Someday!
At our favorite used bookstore last week, I found a recent book about the trials of military wives and families and what they have to endure: anticipating a loss, and experiencing actual losses. I don’t think that the public realizes much about military life. After all, servicemen are a minority in this country. The book is insightful and I’m enjoying picking it up for a few moments, time and again. Perhaps I’ll post a more complete review of the book when I have finished it. I like to let people know about books I have enjoyed!
The trick with book reviews is to provide only tantalizing tidbits that encourage readers to want to learn the “rest of the story.” I would not imagine that any publisher would want to have the whole contents of a book “given away.” In fact, the beginning pages of most books have disclaimers about reproducing the contents. Just because you own a book, either because it has been given to you, or you have purchased it, the book is yours to read and enjoy but not do with it as you wish (including scanning and photocopying), unless other written permission has been awarded you to divulge content beyond what could be considered fair and reasonable. Just sayin’…
This week, I was contacted by a copyright attorney whose wish it is to bridge the gap between the “pros” and the general public. It is an important concept. Most people do not understand the copyright law or they choose to ignore it, pretending that it does not apply to them. The attorney suggests that authors and other creators of artistic works insert more clear cut guidelines as to how their products may be used (or not used). Already, some designers have placed disclaimers on their quilt patterns by saying that no more than 5 quilts can be made from the pattern, and that it may not be mass-produced. That would preclude the pattern being taken over to reproduce in Third World markets. That is just one example of a clear directive.
It is 12:46 a.m. and I have rattled on. The house is quiet, except for the hum of the air conditioning. I’m looking forward to attending a few quilt shows very shortly. Of course, the autumn is the best time of all in New England! In the meantime, the peaches are ready and they are calling me to make my sister’s wonderful recipe for Peach Pie. The key ingredient is Almond Extract.
See ya later, gator!
Pat
Write to me at: pat@quiltersmuse.com
