I took these photographs March 30, 2011, a couple weeks after returning from Alaska and the memorial for my friend Keith. I was attempting to find comfort, frankly, looking to old magazines and books, especially the ones pictured here that day. I'd talked with Keith at various times about the books I wanted to write, that I haven't yet written. A crime novel with diving and sunken wrecks; a historical-fantasy of the aftermath of the fall of Troy, also with diving and sunken wrecks; among others. With both of those projects, I have found inspiration in that particular issue of National Geographic and in Kirk Russell's eco-thriller regarding abalone-poaching, Shell Games. The Surfers Journal is just good fun, good reportage, history, and photographic illustration of watery lives.
Solace. Inspiration. Reminders of debts owed.
I still owe you at least one good book, Keith. I'm working on it. Slowly.
