Free Fall...

[DDT (12)]

The simple truth is… I like to write. My problem isn’t with being motivated or finding the desire to direct my dexterous digits to delightfully dance across the daunting keyboard of my dear, dependable laptop; no, the difficulty comes with trying to decide upon a suitable topic. Once I’ve embarked upon something, however, everything usually seems to flow pretty well, but… ‘WHAT’ do I write about?

Often something will be on my mind, and I’ll start to play around with my thoughts on that subject; then, before I know it… I’ve composed another lengthy piece about whatever it was that had subconsciously inclined me to pull-up another blank page in ‘Word’… Recent events and/or experiences frequently provide sufficient inspiration, but not always… Many, many of my stories have actually begun as an email to someone.

I do bore myself sometimes with the old rut thing, though, and my writing becomes stale. I fall into routines and patterns, predictable, repetitious phrases and commentaries, then I wind-up producing something sadly lacking in novelty, luster, or sparkle. At times like that, I sometimes turn to a ‘technique’ introduced to me by an almost writing coach once upon a time, long, long ago…

I had come across an ad way back when (I don’t recall the particulars of how, where, or when). A lady was offering, for a fee of course, to instruct, coach, advise aspiring writers, and it struck me that could be just what I needed! I contacted her, and we began correspondence… for only a very brief period… Her plans 'changed’ in a matter of only a day or two, mysteriously, and she broke-off the 'student/mentor relationship' even before it had begun or any money had been sent… Heck, we hadn't even determined the amount of the fee yet!

One of only a couple of things she had mentioned to me before going her separate way was what she had called ‘Free Fall’. A method used by some writers lacking stimulation and/or suffering from writer’s block. Quite simple, actually, one just starts writing… about anything. No choices made nor topics selected, just begin writing… like I’m doing right now.

I’ve taken some time off from my travels, and I would like to compose some meaningful or at least entertaining piece that I could post on our message board. I do post ride reports now and then, and I share stories about my travels, adventures, misadventures, and experiences from time to time, as well. There are several parts of our most recent extended road trip that I could write about… however…

Many of my posts lately don’t seem to draw the same level of interest, replies, or total ‘reads’ that they once did, and that is discouraging. Some, on the other hand, result in most flattering and/or useful comments that both encourage and stimulate me! Positive comments are always deeply appreciated, and they do inspire me to write on... “What gets rewarded gets repeated;" however, the opposite is also true... Reactions to and careful analysis of 'feedback', both expressed and implied, are absolutely critical to anyone desiring to improve!

Negative feedback, and the apparent lessening of interest is most definitely negative, is not enjoyable to receive, but it can be most helpful. We should never ‘shoot the messenger’, of course, and positive, glowing feedback is not something owed to any writer simply for effort! No participation trophies given in this realm!

No, when ‘sales’ begin to drop off, analysis should fall upon the product itself: its quality, delivery, or changes in the marketplace, ergo its relevance… Customers don’t ‘let us down’ when they choose other alternatives; the problem lies squarely with the dynamics of the product falling out of favor! And that, boys and girls, brings us to this point…

I’ve now passed the 600-word mark with this little ditty! WOW, not something I’ll likely ever share with others, but it is something that has kept me focused and writing! Funny, aside from being entertaining, writing for me is also therapeutic and educational. Educational because it focuses thought on a particular item.

Thinking can be highly instructional because it encourages us to reason, explore different aspects of subjects in depth, and come to greater understanding than we knew in advance we might find. It can also lead us to do some outside research. Conclusions and answers can even come in time, but greater understanding is the primary benefit.  

By putting things down this way, they become subject to analysis and critique later by oneself mostly, but possibly by others, as well. This, then, imposes a certain level of intellectual honesty and need for care to avoid inaccuracies or fantasies… Fantasies can be indulged, of course, and those can be fun, too. However, none of us like to be exposed as merely a person randomly ranting or spewing nonsense, so… The discipline inherent in writing is a beneficial and welcome dimension to the overall thought process.

Another aspect of ‘Free Fall’, and perhaps its most important, is that during the random rambling, a suitable topic might reveal itself. Not always, of course, and this certainly is not a silver bullet guaranteed to arrest writer’s block. Sometimes, one has to think outside the box, though… to make up a topic about a familiar subject or simply pull something out of thin air.  

Even fiction doesn’t have to be out of bounds, provided it is done in the right way and for the right reasons. Deception, downright lying, or in particular deliberate misleading are not worthy pursuits, but for entertainment or amusement that could be useful… Like the tale of the time I was 'abducted' by space aliens… Oh my…! Have I just stumbled upon a potential topic here…? Maybe... Whatever, composing this particular piece has kept me thinking and writing, though... so, mission accomplished!

DDT

[Wizzard]

Bruce, I never get "bored" with your writings and look forward to each and every one of them. If I agree or disagree it does not matter. I like to read other's perspectives regardless of my opinion. That is how I learn.  Keep it up

[scooperhsd]

+1 .  I only wish I had your skill at putting words to the screen.

[Beardo]

The first thing I do when I come on this site is “show unread posts since last visit”, followed by a scan for DDT in the “started by” column.

Know that I read every one of your posts even if I don’t comment on them. They remain one of the reasons I still hang around, despite not owning a Valkyrie anymore 

You are someone I admire for your wisdom, outlook, and wandering ways. While I’ll never have your writing ability, I hope to attempt to emulate your travels someday when work steals less of my time.

[John Schmidt]

Bruce, I'm with the other readers' posts here. Just because I don't post a reply doesn't mean I don't read them or appreciate the content and/or message. At my stage in life I'll never reach the level of wandering that you have, but Lord willing(and my body  ) I plan to at least put a dent in that cloak of wanderlust most of us have. As for writer's block....know what you mean. I've had it for 81 years now. 

[Jess from VA]

Bruce, I for one would like to say that I read and enjoy all your dittys.  But I don't always chime in though if I don't have anything to contribute about any particular post.  And I think this is likely true for a number of our members.  So don't necessarily take no response as a negative response.

Also, there is a natural tendency among the membership (and in accordance with general forum etiquette everywhere), not to thread drift (or steal thunder) from a member's post as a sign of respect for that member.

I like writing here too.  And, I like to include humor whenever possible.  I used to get more laughing face emojis than I do anymore.  But that doesn't slow me down any; us old retired solo guys just feel the need to communicate with good folks of common interest from time to time... lest we begin talking with ourselves more than the psychiatrists would say is healthy.

And don't forget, Carl is always ready to correct our spelling, punctuation, grammar or syntax, and at least that's a response.  

If you are seeking a response, consider adding in to your posts a general question or two to the membership inquiring how they may feel about any particular subject.  Invite the readers to join your discussion, and they probably will.

It's about time to go play with my leaves (again).  They are not my friends, but every year this time I have to get out and play with them for 6 weeks or more.  Little pricks!

[Ice]

Bruce, even what you call random ramblings, are some of the best that is written on this board.
Yes I am also one who when I check the board check first for the DDT Chronicles, in hopes that a new adventure awaits this longing reader. However even when you are just rambling I read every post you write and look forward to the next one.
Dont stop even if responses are low, I am positive you have more followers than you know.
Thanks for always sharing and we truly look forward to the next time you are in our neck of the woods (Desert better said  ) so we can share some cold beverages and stories.
Take care my friend and keep on keeping on.

[Willow]

Good share, Bruce.  I too find that time on the road is good opportunity for the thinking process.  

As to using replies or read counts to value your posts, you need to know that readership in general of this board has diminished over the last few years.

...
And don't forget, Carl is always ready to correct our spelling, punctuation, grammar or syntax, and at least that's a response.  
...

Jess, though it is true that I  may be ready, I don't correct a lot of the incorrect or improper use of the written (types) English language.  I limit my corrections to folks with whom I believe I have a respectful relationship or whether particular humor is involved.  

[Jess from VA]

No harm and no fowl Carl.    

[DDT (12)]

This piece began as simply a Free Fall exercise. I wanted to post something, but I couldn’t come up with anything worthy, so… Only after I finished it, did I think about actually posting this, mostly just to gage the reaction, if any. Well, the feedback has been great, and I thank you all for that!!!

I wasn’t looking for anything in particular, I was simply exploring and discovering. I do enjoy writing… well, the process mostly, and the thought that goes with it. I also enjoy reading the reactions of others, and I do find that enormously helpful. I think I have improved over time, due in large measure to what I’ve learned from all of you.

Writing has another hugely beneficial side to it for this mostly solitary gypsy rider and thinker: It meets to a large degree my social needs! I spend by choice vast amounts of time alone… riding and otherwise. I don’t think of myself as anti-social or as a hermit, but I do admit to being somewhat of a sociable recluse. Still, I do have need for companionship and closeness with others, and I’ve found nowhere else where those needs are met like I do here. The few ‘rides’ I make throughout the year also contribute to my mental health!  I’m just proud to be here!!!

DDT

[The emperor has no clothes]

Talk about deception ! I just knew when I saw the title of your post that you had seen the light and had become a Tom Petty fan.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=1lWJXDG2i0A

Just kidding   I hope you know that your stories bring introspection, happiness, and just general good feelings to 99.7% of the members here. (The other .3%, are just hopeless) Nothing brightens my day better than starting the morning off with a coffee and a DDT story. Keep on keepin on.  

[Oss]

Like so many, I found myself wondering why there has not been a DDT post for a spell.

Thanks for continuing to exercise those cranial muscles in order to bring us our
next installment of the (hopefully) endless saga of the bug killer of Florida

another good read !

Oss

At least I think that is where the landlady lives anyways

[mbramley]

 I am relatively new to the VRCC but I do enjoy your ride reports. As for this post I learned a few things form it. Thanks, and I'm glad you decided to go ahead and post it.

[Hook#3287]

Talk about deception ! I just knew when I saw the title of your post that you had seen the light and had become a Tom Petty fan.

I too felt a little deception, but glad you fixed it with the youtube 

Bruce, as stated, I also read and enjoy your posts.  It's a huge plus to the time spent here.  I just don't always have a suitable response to the eloquent written words you produce.

[larue]

Rambling or not it's a fine piece of prose. Its  always a pleasure to read your posts that need some level  of intellect to see through the diction you use to capture your audience. In this new lazy digital world I missed reading books especially novels, so at least i get my dose through your writings. However, Like others said, I don't comment on all your post but know I'm always going to be a fan. I'm still waiting for all those pieces to be published  

[Valkorado]

There's a big difference between rambling and babbling.  Write on,  wordsmith!

[Smokinjoe-VRCCDS#0005]

I always read them and curious do you have a file or some other place you keep all these ? You should print them out on paper someday when you are no longer here it could be a treasure to your kids / grandkids that's just my opinion however I think its a good one  

Took this picture just as Ali was closing in on 600,000 miles.

[old2soon]

          STILL waiting on the chute to open.  Kiddin aside I read and enjoy your posts and like others have stated-even IF I make no comment. The Bruce/DDT chronicles as it are.  Keep writin and I'll keep reading.  And i agree with Joe. RIDE SAFE.

[Rams]

Bruce,

Being honest, I read virtually everything you post but, I don't always respond.  Keep doing what you do so well, riding, writing and passing on your elder statesmanship.   We all love reading about your trips, adventures and whimsical musings.

Rams 

[Thunderbolt]

Bruce as always and like the others have said I usually look under the column that indicates the posters name for your handle.  If it is on the first page I sit back in my chair and smile because I know I am in for a bright spot in my day and a smile or three.
I think Willow might have hit the nail on the proverbial head, there aren't as many of us as there was a while ago as the song goes.............

[3fan4life]

Add me to the list of those who always read but don't always comment.

No-one passes through our lives without reason.

Some pass through to enrich our lives, others not so much.

I count you among those that are here to enrich my life.

It is always a pleasure to speak with you in person and to share some wind with you.

And when we aren't able to share direct conversation it is a pleasure to read what you have chosen to share here.

[Farside]

  Bruce, I love keeping up with you and your adventures. The places and folks you meet on your journeys  with your perspective on those encounters do give us all positive thoughts. As I've stated before I'd only hope to get in a 1/4 of the ridding you do in a year when I retire. Keep it up!   

[threevalks]

Bruce, I'm another of the long list of faithful readers that are slack on the comments. When reading your stories, I hear them as if we were at one of the rides sitting, BS ing, solving the worlds problems.

[The emperor has no clothes]

Bruce, I'm another of the long list of faithful readers that are slack on the comments. When reading your stories, I hear them as if we were at one of the rides sitting, BS ing, solving the worlds problems.

I have a similar feeling. When I'm reading Bruce's stories, many times I drift back to a little bar in Anchor Point, AK. where we first met. 

[Smokinjoe-VRCCDS#0005]

Bruce, I'm another of the long list of faithful readers that are slack on the comments. When reading your stories, I hear them as if we were at one of the rides sitting, BS ing, solving the worlds problems.

I have a similar feeling. When I'm reading Bruce's stories, many times I drift back to a little bar in Anchor Point, AK. where we first met. 

First time I met Bruce was a bathroom at " Dragons On The Beach " he said to me glad to meet you  Smokinjoe this is where all the pricks hang out. Love that man so proud to call him friend.

[The emperor has no clothes]

Bruce, I'm another of the long list of faithful readers that are slack on the comments. When reading your stories, I hear them as if we were at one of the rides sitting, BS ing, solving the worlds problems.

I have a similar feeling. When I'm reading Bruce's stories, many times I drift back to a little bar in Anchor Point, AK. where we first met. 

First time I met Bruce was a bathroom at " Dragons On The Beach " he said to me glad to meet you  Smokinjoe this is where all the pricks hang out. Love that man so proud to call him friend.

[matt]

Bruce I may not write much or often but I do enjoy all your stories. Thank you

[Reb]

 I truly enjoy having my coffee at work while reading a DDT posts in morning. It gets the day started! 

[msb]

Bruce, you most certainly don't require any validations for your posts... whether they  be your epic chronicals from the road, or your well-articulated  thoughts on other topics in general. I like most others here always take the time to read and enjoy them. Keep 'em coming