What A Character
Robert Duvall died on Feb. 15 and it is well worth considering which of the many characters he performed for us through his long and storied career interests you the most. I have already established my love of Lonesome Dove so I will not return to that but one of the films we return to often in our house is Secondhand Lions. I must also admit love for Tender Mercies. I just love when he plays a complicated human living with his choices and mistakes.
Which Robert Duvall roles do you consider his best or which ones stick with you the longest? I appreciate an actor who shows the struggles and challenges of humanity but especially of manhood. I don’t love the headlines that simply call him a “tough guy” actor because he was so much more than that. Robert Duvall’s life work was exploring the flaws and frailty of humanity and showing us over and over that we are worthy of love even with those flaws. That is a life well lived. What writing inspiration can you find in the filmography of Robert Duvall?
I am also thinking a lot about Jesse Jackson’s life and legacy. His visit to Sesame Street is a wonderful invitation to write and reflect.
My son turned 25 this weekend and so I have been thinking (and writing) about character and life lessons. What writing inspiration can you find in those contemplations?
Last of all, perhaps building on these thoughts, I wrote on substack about How do our texts prepare and warn us for the perils and complexities of life?
May all or something here spark your imagination today! Now go write.
