
Sirens from Greek history were beautiful half-woman, half-birdlike creatures who sang such sweet songs that listeners forgot everything and died of hunger. The Sirens are mostly mentioned by Greek poet Homer in his Epos "Odyssey", where the Sirens encounter Odysseus and his companions on their journey back to the island of Ithaca. The Sirens were expecting Odysseus’ arrival and immediately started singing. Odysseus prepared for the situation by telling his companions to put wax in their ears and bind him strongly in the boat’s mast and to not free him despite his begging. This way, Greek hero Odysseus was able to escape from the temptation and continue his long journey to Ithaca.
I loved that book Odyssey as a teenager. I wonder how many teens read it now.
And yet, we are advised to create an online presence to draw attention to our name, which should affect book sales in the long run. Well, I haven't reached the end of the road. So far, I've seen no results. I hold on to the hope that, by remaining true to my goal, I'll achieve my aim.
Meanwhile, a comet is heading for Earth. The asteroid with the destructive power of a hydrogen bomb will hurtle past Earth next Friday. It will come within 17,000 miles, 14 times nearer the Earth than the moon. I hope it will be a near miss.
I've written a draft on a new novel set in 2027 where a comet hits our planet and changes England's future. I pray it doesn't happen. Best if get on with writing so I finish the final draft before the fantasy comet hits in only 15 years time. I should lash myself to the helm of a ship like Odysseus or the Captain's daughter in the Hesperus.
Partial quote from the Wreck of the Hesperus: |