OED: PALIMPSEST: noun: a manuscript or piece of writing material on which later writing has been superimposed on effaced earlier writing.
figurative: something reused or altered but still bearing visible traces of its earlier form.
Palimpsest is one of my favourite words, and one that I don't use often enough. I was reminded of it when I was photographing these irresitable subjects: the fading and moss crept sign and coppiced plant supports.
In my current mood of introspection, inevitably I ended up thinking how most of us are our own palimpsests, layers of experiences, memories and emotions, and how often we can cede control of the writing of our lives to other people. What's exciting me most at the moment is taking back that control, choosing which parts of my life to write in bold and which ones to scrub out and replace.
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What a lovely word! I love learning something new over at your place, and the comments you leave are just so much fun, J!
ReplyDeleteIt's one of my favourite words, too :) I think I managed to use it in a novel, once...
ReplyDeleteAh, I see the flexing of your writing muscles. Very nicely toned!
ReplyDeleteI recognize that first photo!
ReplyDeleteI love the idea of us having palimpsets! Great post.
Esther - It's just so satisfying to say and write.
ReplyDeleteRachel - It always reminds me of sitting in my medieval manuscripts class at uni.
Louciao - Thanks. I wish I'd extended it a bit, but was having a slightly stressful day yesterday
Ladyfi - When did you go there? That building is just opposite where my grandparents used to live.
We learn something new every day!
ReplyDeleteDxx
Interesting word, nice that you can choose which part of your life to be written in bold.
ReplyDeleteSo well written.
Palimpsest is such an interesting word and one I haven't come across before. It's been a while but it's been very nice catching up on your blog today.
ReplyDeleteIt is an interesting word and an interesting post and I always learn something new like the others!
ReplyDeleteHave a great day day, J!
Sylvia
It is a new word for me, thanks for the post.
ReplyDeleteLike an altered text--like the Book of Deer I reference in my post today. Thanks for the word!
ReplyDeleteGreat word, and interesting thoughts.
ReplyDelete