28 Comments
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X. P. Callahan's avatar

This is a clinic in the lyric essay. So moving. The language, though beautifully crafted, never waves for attention. The writer is present, not performing. This is profoundly ethical writing.

Luanne Castle's avatar

Thank you so much for your kind words, X. P.

X. P. Callahan's avatar

Very much my pleasure, Luanne.

Deborah Brasket's avatar

Wow! What a powerful piece, Luanne. No wonder is was published twice. I'm so glad you shared it here. And so sad to hear about Perry. These furry children are so loving and innocent, so "present" in our lives. To lose one is to lose part of our better selves.

Luanne Castle's avatar

Yes, exactly. I am wandering around the house in a fog. Thanks so much, Deborah.

Louella Lester's avatar

So touching and good.

Luanne Castle's avatar

Thank you, Louella!

Ann Collins's avatar

As someone who has recently experienced the death of a beloved pet friend, this helps. Thank you, Luanne.

Luanne Castle's avatar

I am so very sorry, Ann. I am glad that this helped.

Amy's avatar

Perfect.

Luanne Castle's avatar

Thank you, Amy.

Ellen Morris Prewitt's avatar

"Like a 1950s father." ❤️ I'm so sorry about Perry, who I feel like I've gotten to know over the years. It's so hard when they pass.

Luanne Castle's avatar

So hard. Thanks so much, Ellen.

Gwen Wilson's avatar

Very poignant vignettes letting us walk with you as you navigate love and loss.

Luanne Castle's avatar

Thank you so much, Gwen. I can't remember if I told you that Scrap is now available as an ebook at the publisher if you are interested.

Gwen Wilson's avatar

Many thanks Luanne. I fully intend to get the paperback version, which is now the "right" price on Amazon. I'll get my friend to order it. Just been a bit distracted with the launch of Louisa. It happened last Friday and was fabulous.

Luanne Castle's avatar

Huge congratulations, Gwen! I can't wait to read it!

Liz Gauffreau's avatar

I was moved by this reflection on death and love and loss.

Luanne Castle's avatar

Liz, thank you. I feel like this all over again.

Liz Gauffreau's avatar

You’re welcome, Luanne. That is certainly understandable. I’m sorry that you’re living it again.

Kate Crimmins's avatar

This is beautiful! Thanks for sharing.

Luanne Castle's avatar

Kate, thank you so much! I know you know.

Deborah Sosin's avatar

Oh this is gorgeous and heartbreaking, Luanne. I'm so sorry for your losses, including your cutie-pie Perry so recently. As a Kitty Mama with many such losses, I feel for you. Take good care of yourself in the coming days. ❤️

Luanne Castle's avatar

You know then! Although this was written 11 years ago I feel the same way all over again! Thanks, Deborah.

Wilma Kahn's avatar

Yes, it all coheres in a way that's fleeting or fleeing, section to section, beyond one's reach --

Luanne Castle's avatar

Beautifully put.

LeeAnn Pickrell's avatar

This is so moving and beautiful. I still see my little spirit cat Henry flitting across the yard somedays.

Rebecca Weil's avatar

Thank you for sharing this beautiful heartfelt essay-more-than-essay. ❤️