p e n c h a n t

Reading the first line in a book is like meeting someone for the first time, or opening a birthday gift. There’s anticipation, a moving forward into something new and unknown. The first line should read like poetry, worded carefully, perfectly. It’s important to make the right first impression. The first line should be a promise to the reader that the book is worth the read.

Here I’ve chosen the first line from another of my favorite books, and favorite authors. It sets a mood, gives us a distinct lyrical voice, and introduces the unique theme: the incongruity of time standing still and time advancing. I think this line is timeless.

The first week of August hangs at the very top of summer, the top of the live-long year, like the highest seat of a Ferris wheel when it pauses in its turning.

Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt

Writer contends instead of should be rather than, instead of instead of

Lawnmower cuts and runs

Pothole treated for depression

For sale: pie in the sky (fixer-upper)

Cell phone gives fiance ring

Fork in road splits, DOT conducts search

Graying elephant orders wrinkle cream

Steamroller victim charged for three hospital gowns

Mr. Potato Head foiled again

Literary news: Pinocchio gets nose job

Archives: Virgil tells Dante where to go

And the Good News Award goes to: Foyer passes entrance exam

Color is everywhere. You can walk in it, breathe it in.

photo by Troy Howell