The Lighthouse

There are periods in history that I enjoy reading about. The middle ages, the western frontier, and the seacoast are a few examples.

One of my favorite structures is the lighthouse. It conjures up times when the lighthouse's beacon may have saved hundreds of sea faring vessels from a watery grave. It also gave light to those seeking direction. It could be a ship figuring out how close it is to a rock jetty. To me, the lighthouse is a metaphor for someone who seeks guidance and direction. Life has its stormy seas and what a person seeks is relief and respite.

When creating a short story I use this analogy with the character I use. The character discovers resources within themselves that may have been dormant in their lives. When all seems forboding and lost, a beacon of light radiates the inner darkness. A path is shown and the character is able to continue on.

Lighthouses aren't the only objects I enjoy. Castles conjure up mystery behind the many doors and passageways. Trains remind me that there are places to be seen hundred of miles away. The western frontier has me thinking of cowboys, Indians, settlers, and untamed lands. Being part Native American, I take it from their point of view.

I don't discard any of these objects or experiences because they can be fodder for future ideas. Don't throw anyway that unwanted toy, fur coat, or battered rattan suitcase. There just may be hundreds of tales held in those objects.