When you first think of this word, it is with a slippery slope in mind.
I’ve been on a few of those in my time.
And while we’re on the subject, those inclines measured in degrees are very important if you want a train to get up and down the side of a mountain.
For the train, that’s an incline plane, the point where traction alone won’t get the iron horse up the hill.
Did I say ‘Iron Horse’? Sorry, regressed there, back to the mid-1800s in the American West for a moment.
It’s not that important when it comes to trucks and cars, and less so if you like four-wheel driving; getting up near-vertical mountainsides often present a welcome challenge to the true enthusiast
But for the rest of us, not so much if you find yourself sliding in reverse uncontrollably into the bay. I’m sure it’s happened more than once.
Then…
Are you inclined to go?
A very different sort of incline, ie to be disposed towards an attitude or desire.
An inclination, maybe, not to go four-wheel driving?
There is another, probably more obscure use of the word incline, and that relates to an elevated geological formation. Not the sort of reference that crops up in everyday conversation at the coffee shop.
But, you never know. Try it next time you have coffee and see what happens.
Hang about. Didn’t I read somewhere you need to plan your novel, create an outline setting the plot points, and flesh out the characters?
I’m sure it didn’t say, sit down and start writing!
Time to find a writing pad, and put my thinking cap on.
I make a list, what’s the story going to be about? Who’s going to be in it, at least at the start?
Like a newspaper story, I need a who, what, when, where, and how.
Right now.
I pick up the pen.
Character number one:
Computer nerd, ok, that’s a little close to the bone, a computer manager who is trying to be everything at once, and failing. Still me, but with a twist. Now, add a little mystery to him, and give him a secret, one that will only be revealed after a specific set of circumstance. Yes, I like that.
We’ll call him Bill, ex-regular army, a badly injured and repatriated soldier who was sent to fight a war in Vietnam, the result of which had made him, at times, unfit to live with.
He had a wife, which brings us to,
Character number two:
Ellen, Bill’s ex-wife, an army brat and a General’s daughter, and the result of one of those romances that met disapproval for so many reasons. It worked until Bill came back from the war, and from there it slowly disintegrated. There are two daughters, both by the time the novel begins, old enough to understand the ramifications of a divorce.
Character number three:
The man who is Bill’s immediate superior, the Services Department manager, a rather officious man who blindly follows orders, a man who takes pleasure in making others feel small and insignificant, and worst of all, takes the credit where none is due.
Oops, too much, that is my old boss. He’ll know immediately I’m parodying him. Tone it down, just a little, but more or less that’s him. Last name Benton. He will play a small role in the story.
Character number four:
Jennifer, the IT Department’s assistant manager, a woman who arrives in a shroud of mystery, and then, in time, to provide Bill with a shoulder to cry on when he and Ellen finally split, and perhaps something else later on.
More on her later as the story unfolds.
So far so good.
What’s the plot?
Huge corporation plotting to take over the world using computers? No, that’s been done to death.
Huge corporation, OK, let’s stop blaming the corporate world for everything wrong in the world. Corporations are not bad people, people are the bad people. That’s a rip off cliché, from guns don’t kill people, people kill people! There will be guns, and there will be dead people.
There will be people hiding behind a huge corporation, using a part of their computer network to move billions of illegally gained money around. That’s better.
Now, having got that, our ‘hero’ has to ‘discover’ this network, and the people behind it.
All we need now is to set the ball rolling, a single event that ‘throws a cat among the pigeons’.
Yes, Bill is on holidays, a welcome relief from the problems of work. He dreams of what he’s going to do for the next two weeks. The phone rings. Benton calling, the world is coming to an end, the network is down. He’s needed. A few terse words, but he relents.
I just spent 26 and a half hours in planes and in airport terminals getting home, and lost two days in the process. The 15th of January just didn’t exist for us.
This is what happens when you fly from Vancouver in Canada to Brisbane, Australia, via Shanghai. The thing is, everywhere way, way overseas is a two-stop run. We have to break our journey somewhere, like Singapore, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Shanghai, Abu Dhabi, and for the sake of managing delays at the originating end, we usually end up with a mid-airport stay of five to ten hours.
It all means that when you finally arrive in Australia, you are tired, and look it. I feel sorry for the Immigration officials who must rarely see people looking good on their arrival.
This time we were fortunate to get back in the morning. To avoid being picked up by relatives, we arranged for a limousine service, and it worked out well.
I couldn’t say the same for some of the pickup services overseas, but that was more the fault of the travel agent here than anything else.
It only reinforced my thoughts on travel agents: some are excellent, and some are complacent, relying too much on travel wholesalers whose knowledge of the products they sell is appalling.
The original bookings were fine; the agent we used knew her stuff. But she left, and someone else took over, and not so good, I’m afraid.
However…
On the whole, it was an incredible expedition, from temperatures of 30 plus celsius to temperatures of -21 degrees Fahrenheit, and rarely above 6 degrees Fahrenheit.
The highlight: Lake Louise in Canada. Everyone should see this place in Winter at least once in their lifetime. Certainly, my wife’s 65th birthday, spent there, was something she will never forget.
And the sleigh ride, in -14 or -15 degrees, well, we might be eligible to be declared start-staring mad, but seeing the frozen waterfall was just another of those magical moments that reinforces why we should be preserving the planet, not trying to destroy it.
The Elusive Spark: Where Do Your Creative Ideas Really Come From?
Ever stared at a blank page, a blinking cursor, or a sketching pad, feeling the immense pressure to “be creative”? We’re often told creativity is a skill, something to be honed, but what about the moment the idea actually strikes? How does that elusive spark ignite?
It’s a question as old as creation itself, and the truth is, there’s no single answer. The source of our most brilliant ideas is often as unique and varied as the ideas themselves.
Is it an internal wellspring, finally overflowing?
Perhaps you’re someone who carries ideas around like precious cargo in your head – fragments of dialogue, vivid images, a compelling plot twist – for weeks, months, even years. The “how” of creativity, for you, might simply be finding that neutral, quiet space to finally unleash them. Whether it’s the crisp pages of a notebook, the welcoming glow of a laptop screen, or the ubiquitous notes app on your smartphone, the act of simply getting it out is the critical first step. It’s less about conjuring and more about excavating.
Or is it a serendipitous whisper from the world?
Then there’s the magic of external stimulation. Picture this: you’re by the window, the comforting warmth of a coffee cup in your hands, a perhaps-too-indulgent slice of cake nearby. Your gaze wanders, catches on something – a passing stranger, the way the light hits a distant building, a conversation snippet drifting from the street below. And suddenly, a switch flips. The words begin to form, the scene unfolds, a character takes shape. It’s not forced; it’s discovered. These are the moments when the world itself becomes your muse, offering up gifts you didn’t even know you were looking for.
Could connection be the ignition?
Sometimes, the spark comes not from within, or from the observant quiet, but from interaction. Think of those conversations with a muse, a trusted partner, a spouse, a friend – or even a fleeting encounter with a stranger. You’re bouncing ideas, exploring possibilities, or perhaps even getting “the wrong ideas” that, ironically, lead straight to the right ones (especially if you’re writing a particular kind of story!). Human connection, the clash and blend of different perspectives, can be an incredibly potent catalyst for creativity, unlocking narratives you might never have considered alone.
Facing the Inner Critic: Why Bother?
But let’s be honest, creativity isn’t always a gentle breeze of inspiration. There are days when the well feels dry, when the voices of doubt are louder than any muse. In those moments, I sometimes find myself metaphorically moving seats, sitting opposite “the writer’s chair.” I imagine myself as an outsider, someone dragged in off the street, looking critically at this person trying to create. What would I ask?
No doubt, that imaginary person would be cynical. “Why bother?” they’d ask. “There are a million others out there trying to do the exact same thing.”
And that, my friends, is the easiest question to answer.
Every story is different. Every piece of art, every innovative solution, every poem is unique. Why? Because you are unique. Every creator brings a different point of view, a different set of life experiences, a different personality, a different circle of friends. This list could go on forever, forming an intricate tapestry of individuality that no one else possesses.
The Ultimate Proof: Your Uniqueness is Your Superpower
Here’s the test to prove this point, simple yet profound: Outline a basic story concept, give that exact same outline to ten different writers, and you will get ten distinctly different stories. Each will bear the unmistakable fingerprints of its creator – their voice, their fears, their hopes, their humour, their unique way of seeing the world.
So, how do you become creative? It’s not about finding a magic formula or waiting for a lightning bolt (though those moments are wonderful). It’s about:
Honouring your internal world: Giving your brewing ideas the space and time to emerge.
Engaging with your external world: Staying open, observant, and curious.
Connecting with others: Allowing conversations and different viewpoints to spark new thoughts.
And most importantly, trusting yourself: Believing that your unique perspective, your individual tapestry of experiences, is precisely what makes your creativity valuable and irreplaceable.
Don’t strive to be a creative. Strive to be your creative. Because the most brilliant spark you possess is the one that’s uniquely, unmistakably, YOU.
The Goldilocks Dilemma in Content Creation: How to Find Your Readers’ Sweet Spot
Let’s be honest: in the digital age, attention is the world’s most valuable currency.
Every time someone opens a browser, scrolls through social media, or checks their email inbox, they are bombarded with thousands of competing messages. Videos auto-play, notifications ping, and headlines scream for a fraction of a second of their day.
For writers, bloggers, and marketers, grabbing the reader’s attention is only half the battle. Keeping it is where the real war is fought.
This brings us to the eternal debate of the digital writing world: brevity. We are constantly told to keep it short, keep it punchy, and cut the fluff. But in our quest to be concise, are we starving our readers of the depth they actually crave? Is there a line where “short” turns into “shallow,” and “long” turns into “boring”?
Let’s explore the Goldilocks dilemma of content length—how to know what is too much, what is not enough, and how to keep your readers hooked right down to the final period.
The Death of the Attention Span (And Why It’s a Myth)
You’ve probably heard the statistic a dozen times: Humans now have an attention span of 8 seconds—shorter than a goldfish.
It’s a great soundbite, but it’s largely a myth. People don’t have inherently shorter attention spans today; rather, they have higher standards for what deserves their attention.
If a reader clicks on your article and immediately bounces back to Google, it’s rarely because the piece was too long. More often, it’s because the introduction was sluggish, the formatting was a wall of text, or the content failed to deliver on the promise of the headline.
When a reader is genuinely engaged, they will happily spend 10, 15, or 20 minutes reading a deeply reported, comprehensive piece. Conversely, if content is unengaging, even a 300-word blog post will feel like an eternity.
The goal isn’t necessarily to make your writing short. The goal is to make it effortless to consume.
When Is It “Not Enough”? (The Danger of Under-Delivering)
In the rush to respect the reader’s time, many creators swing too far in the direction of brevity. They strip away nuance, context, and personality, leaving behind a skeletal shell of information.
This is what we call the Wikipedia trap or thin content.
When your content isn’t enough, you run into three major problems:
You sacrifice value: If a reader can find the exact same surface-level information in the first three results of a Google search, you haven’t given them a reason to stay.
You lose authority: Short, superficial answers rarely build trust. Readers want to know why something is true, not just what is true. Depth demonstrates expertise.
The “Unsatisfied Bounce”: Have you ever clicked an article, scrolled through a few vague paragraphs, and realised you learned absolutely nothing new? It’s frustrating. When content is not enough, it leaves the reader feeling cheated out of their time.
The Rule for Minimum Viable Length: Your piece should be only as long as it takes to completely solve the reader’s problem, answer their question, or deliver an emotional payoff. If you leave loose ends, you haven’t written enough.
When Is It “Too Much”? (The Danger of the Digital Dump)
On the flip side, we’ve all encountered the bloated blog post. You know the ones: 5,000 words of meandering prose that could easily have been summarised in 500 words.
Writers often fall into this trap for the wrong reasons—trying to hit arbitrary SEO word counts, over-explaining simple concepts, or simply falling in love with the sound of their own typing.
When your content is too much, the symptoms are glaring:
Fluff and padding: Using three adjectives where one would do; repeating the same point in different ways just to extend the paragraph.
Buried leads: Making the reader wade through a 500-word personal anecdote about your weekend before getting to the actual topic they searched for.
Cognitive overload: Hitting the reader with so much data, jargon, and unstructured thoughts that their brain simply shuts down.
Remember the cardinal rule of editing, famously attributed to writer Elmore Leonard (via Anton Chekhov): “Leave out the parts that readers skip.”
If a paragraph doesn’t move the narrative forward, answer a pressing question, or add distinct value, mercilessly cut it.
Finding the Sweet Spot: How to Keep Readers Hooked
So, how do you find the magical middle ground where length ceases to matter and engagement takes over? It comes down to a blend of structural psychology and empathetic writing.
1. Hook ‘Em Fast, Then Feed Them
Your introduction is the handshake. Make it firm, welcoming, and clear. Tell the reader immediately what they are going to get out of the piece. Once you’ve made that promise, dive straight into the substance without unnecessary throat-clearing.
2. Design for the Skimmer (Visual Rhythm)
Here’s a dirty little secret of the internet: People don’t read online—they scan.
Even the most dedicated readers use their eyes to preview a page before committing. If they see a massive, unbroken block of text, flight instincts kick in.
Use short paragraphs (1–3 sentences).
Utilise bold text for key takeaways.
Break up monotony with bullet points and numbered lists.
Include subheadings that act as signposts along the reader’s journey.
By creating visual rhythm, you make a long article feel short and manageable.
3. Match Length to Intent
Content length should always be dictated by the user’s intent.
If someone wants to know the current weather, a 2,000-word essay on meteorology is too much.
If someone wants to learn how to build a retirement portfolio from scratch, a 300-word summary is not enough.
Always ask yourself: What does the reader need to walk away with to feel satisfied? Give them exactly that, packaged as cleanly as possible.
The Bottom Line
Writing isn’t about hitting an arbitrary word count; it’s about choreography. It’s about taking a reader by the hand and leading them on a journey from point A to point B without losing them in the weeds or rushing them off the path.
Forget the obsession with being short. Forget the anxiety of needing to be long.
Instead, focus on being clear, valuable, and engaging. If you do that, your readers won’t care how long your article is—they’ll just be glad they stayed until the end.
What’s your take? Do you prefer bite-sized reads, or do you love sinking your teeth into long-form deep dives? Let’s discuss in the comments below!
Discover Hobart’s Hidden Gems: Top 5 Tourist Attractions That Aren’t Crowded but Still Captivating
Hobart, Tasmania’s capital, is best known for its vibrant arts scene, stunning natural landscapes, and iconic attractions like Salamanca Place and MONA. But for travellers craving a quieter, more introspective experience—yet still rich in culture and charm—Hobart offers a treasure trove of lesser-known spots. These hidden gems are often overlooked by crowds but brim with unique stories, history, and beauty. Here are five must-visit attractions that will give you a fresh perspective on this coastal city.
1. Battery Point: A Glimpse into Hobart’s Colonial Heart
Tucked on the northern shore of the Derwent River, Battery Point is a charming historic suburb that feels more like a sleepy local neighbourhood than a tourist hotspot. Here, you’ll find well-preserved Federation-era homes (late 1800s) now converted into cozy cafes, galleries, and boutique shops. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, admire the convict-built wharves, and enjoy waterfront views of the bustling Salamanca Wharf.
Why It’s Special: Battery Point is a vibrant, community-focused area where history and modernity blend seamlessly. Its peaceful atmosphere and local vibe make it perfect for a leisurely afternoon. Pro Tip: Visit on a weekday for a more relaxed experience, and don’t miss Battery Point’s famous Sunday markets for fresh produce and handmade crafts.
2. Mawson’s Hut Replica at Kingston
A few kilometres east of Hobart, the Mawson’s Hut Replica at Kingston offers a fascinating slice of Antarctic history. Built by Sir Douglas Mawson, an Australian explorer of Antarctica, this replica of his original 1911 hut now serves as a museum showcasing his daring expeditions to the frozen continent. The original hut is still preserved in Commonwealth Bay, while this one houses artifacts and interactive exhibits.
Why It’s Special: This is Tasmania’s unique contribution to polar exploration. While small in scale, the museum is packed with gripping stories and rare artifacts, making it a niche but powerful experience. Pro Tip: Combine your visit with a scenic walk around Kingston Bay, where you can spot penguins and enjoy views of the Storm Bay.
3. Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG)
Nestled in the heart of Hobart, TMAG is a cultural hub that often flies under the radar. Its eclectic mix of exhibitions ranges from Aboriginal art and natural history to Victorian scientific instruments and contemporary Tasmanian art. The building itself—a former courthouse with a dramatic red-brick façade—is a masterpiece.
Why It’s Special: TMAG offers depth and diversity without the crowds. Its rotating exhibitions ensure there’s always something new to discover, whether you’re a history buff or an art lover. Pro Tip: Check the calendar for special events and exhibitions, such as their popular Dark Mofo winter festivals.
4. Hobart Rivulet: A River of Stories and Art
Once an industrial channel, the Hobart Rivulet has been transformed into a vibrant urban space. The revitalised area now features interactive art installations, public sculptures, and walkways that trace the river’s path through the city. It’s a great place to reflect on Hobart’s past while appreciating its creative present.
Why It’s Special: The Rivulet is a living museum of art and history. From the quirky Sculpture by the Rivulet collection to historic convict-era buildings like the old Hobart Gaol, there’s plenty to explore. Pro Tip: Visit at sunset for a magical view of the river, or join a guided walk to delve into its industrial and Indigenous heritage.
5. Cascades Female Factory: A Haunting Chapter of Convict History
In South Hobart, the Cascades Female Factory stands as a poignant reminder of Tasmania’s convict past. This UNESCO World Heritage Site once housed nearly 12,000 women transported to Tasmania. Today, it’s a museum that tells their stories through interactive displays, preserved buildings, and audio-visual guides.
Why It’s Special: Unlike the bustling convict sites at Port Arthur (which is further out), the Cascades Female Factory offers a more intimate and reflective experience. Its focus on the experiences of Indigenous and convict women is deeply moving and educational. Pro Tip: Take a guided tour to uncover lesser-known stories and get a personal connection to this significant site.
Why These Places Are Perfect for the Discerning Traveller
These attractions stand out not only for their historical and cultural value but also for their ability to offer a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experience. They’re ideal for travellers who want to avoid the usual tourist throngs while still connecting with Tasmania’s rich heritage and creativity.
How to Visit:
Plan your trip during weekdays or shoulder seasons (spring/fall) for the fewest crowds.
Use Hobart’s bike paths or rent a car for easy access to nearby spots like Kingston and South Hobart.
Pack a picnic and linger longer at these less-visited sites—they’re perfect for slowing down and savouring the moment.
Final Thoughts Hobart is more than its famous landmarks—it’s a city of hidden stories waiting to be uncovered. Whether you’re exploring the stately homes of Battery Point or reflecting on the resilience of convict women at Cascades, these attractions offer a deeper, more personal connection to Tasmania. So next time you’re in Hobart, trade the well-trodden path for these quiet, captivating gems and discover why the best experiences sometimes lie in the unexpected.
Have you visited any of these hidden spots in Hobart? Share your favourite underrated destination in the comments below!
We as authors always like to see two little words in every review, page turner.
Alas, sometimes they’re not, but usually this applied to non fiction simple because they’re reference books. Then another two words apply: boat anchor.
The good stuff is usually over the page.
Page in this instance refers to a leaf in a book, which generally has many pages.
Then the is a page boy, not what you’d find lurking around these days but were more common in days past, but refers to a boy in training to become a knight, or an errand boy for a nobleman.
These days a page boy opens doors and runs messages in a hotel.
Another variation is being paged over the P.A. system, always a major cause of embarrassment because you and everyone else thinks your in trouble.
Of course, before there were mobile phones, there were pagers, and sometimes in the deathly silence of the classroom, it went off. Definitely not advisable to have one on you if you are trying to sneak up on someone. Same goes for the modern equivalent, the mobile phone.
For the person who uses a word processor, you are familiar with pages, and having the software generate page numbers, of course, not for the title page, and a different numbering for other pages like an index, before the story starts.
Complicated? Sometimes.
And many years ago a boss of mine often used to say I needed to turn over a new page, and it did make much sense to me. That might have been because I was young and stupid. But, later on I realised what he was really saying was that I needed to turn over a new leaf.
Kind of strange, but then a lot saying are.
And did I?
Eventually.
And just to end on a high note, Paige is also the name of a girl, I think, and one I’ve decided to use in a story.
John Pennington’s life is in the doldrums. Looking for new opportunities and prevaricating about getting married, the only joy on the horizon was an upcoming visit to his grandmother in Sorrento, Italy.
Suddenly, he is left at the check-in counter with a message on his phone telling him the marriage is off, and the relationship is over.
If only he hadn’t promised a friend he would do a favour for him in Rome.
At the first stop, Geneva, he has a chance encounter with Zoe, an intriguing woman who captures his imagination from the moment she boards the Savoire, and his life ventures into uncharted territory in more ways than one.
That ‘favour’ for his friend suddenly becomes a life-changing event, and when Zoe, the woman who he knows is too good to be true, reappears, danger and death follow.
Shot at, lied to, seduced, and drawn into a world where nothing is what it seems, John is dragged into an adrenaline-charged undertaking, where he may have been wiser to stay with the ‘devil you know’ rather than opt for the ‘devil you don’t’.
Discover Adelaide’s Best-Kept Secrets: Top 5 Crowd-Free Gems with Unique Charms
Adelaide, nestled in South Australia’s vibrant heart, is a treasure trove of cultural richness and natural beauty. While the city is home to iconic attractions like the Adelaide Zoo and the bustling Rundle Mall, it also harbours lesser-known wonders that promise unforgettable experiences without the crowds. If you’re looking to explore Adelaide’s hidden gems, here are five distinctive spots that are rarely overrun but brimming with charm.
1. Tandanya National Aboriginal Cultural Institute: A Window into Aboriginal Heritage
Tucked away in the city centre, the Tandanya National Aboriginal Cultural Institute is Australia’s oldest and largest Aboriginal-led cultural space. This dynamic museum showcases the art, stories, and traditions of South Australia’s First Nations peoples through immersive exhibitions, from contemporary art to traditional artifacts. Unlike larger, more generic museums, Tandanya offers a deeply authentic cultural experience with a serene atmosphere that draws visitors in for meaningful exploration rather than mere sightseeing.
Why it’s crowd-free: It’s often overlooked by mainstream tourist itineraries, making it a peaceful place to immerse yourself in history and art. Pro tip: Check out their calendar for live performances and workshops for a more interactive visit.
2. Cleland Wildlife Park: Up-Close Encounters with Aussie Fauna
For a unique wildlife adventure, head to Cleland Wildlife Park, just a short drive from Adelaide’s CBD. This sanctuary is home to native species like koalas, kangaroos, and wallabies. Visitors can feed and photograph these creatures in a natural setting, but unlike busier zoos, Cleland’s laid-back vibe and spacious enclosures keep the atmosphere intimate.
Why it’s crowd-free: Mid-week visits or early mornings ensure a quiet experience, with plenty of space to roam and connect with nature. Pro tip: Book a guided tour to learn about conservation efforts and meet nocturnal creatures in their hideaways.
3. Adelaide Gaol: A Glimpse into Dark Historical Days
Step into the shadows of Adelaide’s past at the Adelaide Gaol, a 19th-century prison that held some of Australia’s most notorious figures. This atmospheric site blends eerie history with engaging guided tours, where tales of rebellion, harsh punishment, and resilience come to life. The gaol’s moats and rusted cells offer a tangible connection to South Australia’s colonial legacy.
Why it’s crowd-free: While it’s a historic site, its solemn focus deters mass tourism, making it ideal for history buffs. Pro tip: Opt for the 90-minute “History Tour” to uncover lesser-known stories and enjoy the most in-depth experience.
4. Old Government House: A Quaint Royal Retreat
Set within the lush grounds of the Adelaide Botanic Garden, Old Government House is a charming colonial-era mansion that served as a residence for South Australia’s governors. The building’s neoclassical architecture and manicured gardens offer a tranquil escape, while its hidden history as a “royal retreat” adds intrigue.
Why it’s crowd-free: Tucked inside a crowded attraction, the house and garden are often overlooked by tourists rushing to see the main highlights. Pro tip: Visit during the weekdays to enjoy guided docent tours and the peace of the surrounding rose gardens.
5. Japanese Garden (Adelaide Botanic Garden): A Zen Oasis in the City
Within the sprawling Adelaide Botanic Garden, the Japanese Garden is a serene, minimalist haven filled with koi ponds, maple trees, and sand raked in meditative patterns. Designed in the late 1980s by Hidetori Matsumura, this gem is a perfect spot for reflection or a quiet picnic, far removed from the typical tourist hotspots.
Why it’s crowd-free: Its specific location within the garden and niche appeal ensure a peaceful, crowd-free experience. Pro tip: Bring a sketchbook or a camera—this garden is a photographer’s dream, especially during spring when the blossoms are in full bloom.
Conclusion: Adelaide’s Hidden Treasures Awaits Adelaide’s quieter attractions offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty without the hassle of crowds. Whether you’re exploring the Tandanya’s Aboriginal art or savouring the peace of the Japanese Garden, these spots provide a deeper, more personal connection to the city’s soul. So next time you’re in Adelaide, venture off the well-trodden path—these hidden gems are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Respect the environment and local communities by following guidelines, especially in wildlife parks and cultural institutions. Enjoy your journey!
It was the first time in almost a week that I made the short walk to the cafe alone. It was early, and the chill of the morning was still in the air. In summer, it was the best time of the day. When Susan came with me, it was usually much later, when the day was much warmer and less tolerable.
On the morning of the third day of her visit, Susan said she was missing the hustle and bustle of London, and by the end of the fourth she said, in not so many words, she was over being away from ‘civilisation’. This was a side of her I had not seen before, and it surprised me.
She hadn’t complained, but it was making her irritable. The Susan that morning was vastly different to the Susan on the first day. So much, I thought, for her wanting to ‘reconnect’, the word she had used as the reason for coming to Greve unannounced.
It was also the first morning I had time to reflect on her visit and what my feelings were towards her. It was the reason I’d come to Greve: to soak up the peace and quiet and think about what I was going to do with the rest of my life.
I sat in my usual corner. Maria, one of two waitresses, came out, stopped, and there was no mistaking the relief in her manner. There was an air of tension between Susan and Maria I didn’t understand, and it seemed to emanate from Susan rather than the other way around. I could understand her attitude if it was towards Alisha, but not Maria. All she did was serve coffee and cake.
When Maria recovered from the momentary surprise, she said, smiling, “You are by yourself?” She gave a quick glance in the direction of my villa, just to be sure.
“I am this morning. I’m afraid the heat, for one who is not used to it, can be quite debilitating. I’m also afraid it has had a bad effect on her manners, for which I apologise. I cannot explain why she has been so rude to you.”
“You do not have to apologise for her, David, but it is of no consequence to me. I have had a lot worse. I think she is simply jealous.”
It had crossed my mind, but there was no reason for her to be. “Why?”
“She is a woman, I am a woman, she thinks because you and I are friends, there is something between us.”
It made sense, even if it was not true. “Perhaps if I explained…”
Maria shook her head. “If there is a hole in the boat, you should not keep bailing but try to plug the hole. My grandfather had many expressions, David. If I may give you one piece of advice, as much as it is none of my business, you need to make your feelings known, and if they are not as they once were, and I think they are not, you need to tell her. Before she goes home.”
Interesting advice. Not only a purveyor of excellent coffee, but Maria was also a psychiatrist who had astutely worked out my dilemma. What was that expression, ‘not just a pretty face’?
“Is she leaving soon?” I asked, thinking Maria knew more about Susan’s movements than I did.
“You would disappoint me if you had not suspected as much. Susan was having coffee and talking to someone in her office on a cell phone. It was an intense conversation. I should not eavesdrop, but she said being here was like being stuck in hell. It is a pity she does not share your love for our little piece of paradise, is it not?”
“It is indeed. And you’re right. She said she didn’t have a phone, but I know she has one. She just doesn’t value the idea of getting away from the office. Perhaps her role doesn’t afford her that luxury.”
And perhaps Alisha was right about Maria, that I should be more careful. She had liked Maria the moment she saw her. We had sat at this very table, the first day I arrived. I would have travelled alone, but Prendergast, my old boss, liked to know where ex-employees of the Department were, and what they were doing.
She sighed. “I am glad I am just a waitress. Your usual coffee and cake?”
“Yes, please.”
Several months had passed since we had rescued Susan from her despotic father; she had recovered faster than we had thought, and settled into her role as the new Lady Featherington, though she preferred not to use that title, but go by the name of Lady Susan Cheney.
I didn’t get to be a Lord, or have any title, not that I was expecting one. What I had expected was that Susan, once she found her footing as head of what seemed to be a commercial empire, would not have time for details like husbands, particularly when our agreement made before the wedding gave either of us the right to end it.
There was a moment when I visited her recovering in the hospital, where I was going to give her the out, but I didn’t, and she had not invoked it. We were still married, just not living together.
This visit was one where she wanted to ‘reconnect’ as she called it, and invite me to come home with her. She saw no reason why we could not resume our relationship, conveniently forgetting she indirectly had me arrested for her murder, charges both her mother and Lucy vigorously pursued, and had the clone not returned to save me, I might still be in jail.
It was not something I would forgive or forget any time soon.
There were other reasons why I was reluctant to stay with her, like forgetting small details, an irregularity in her character I found odd. She looked the same, she sounded the same, she basically acted the same, but my mind was telling me something was not right. It was not the Susan I first met, even allowing for the ordeal she had been subjected to.
But, despite those misgivings, there was no question in my mind that I still loved her, and her clandestine arrival had brought back all those feelings. But as the days passed, I began to get the impression my feelings were one-sided and she was just going through the motions.
Which brought me to the last argument, earlier, where I said if I went with her, it would be business meetings, social obligations, and quite simply her ‘celebrity’ status that would keep us apart. I reminded her that I had said from the outset I didn’t like the idea of being in the spotlight, and when I reiterated it, she simply brushed it off as just part of the job, adding rather strangely that I always looked good in a suit. The flippancy of that comment was the last straw, and I left before I said something I would regret.
I knew I was not a priority. Maybe somewhere inside me, I had wanted to be a priority, and I was disappointed when I was not.
And finally, there was Alisha. Susan, at the height of the argument, had intimated she believed I had an affair with her, but that elephant was always in the room whenever Alisha was around. It was no surprise when I learned Susan had asked Prendergast to reassign her to other duties.
At least I knew what my feelings for Alisha were, and there were times when I had to remember she was persona non grata. Perhaps that was why Susan had her banished, but, again, a small detail; jealousy was not one of Susan’s traits when I first knew her.
Perhaps it was time to set Susan free.
When I swung around to look in the direction of the lane where my villa was, I saw Susan. She was formally dressed, not in her ‘tourist’ clothes, which she had bought from one of the local clothing stores. We had fun that day, shopping for clothes, a chore I’d always hated. It had been followed by a leisurely lunch, lots of wine and soul searching.
It was the reason why I sat in this corner; old habits die hard. I could see trouble coming from all directions, not that Susan was trouble or at least I hoped not, but it allowed me the time to watch her walking towards the cafe in what appeared to be short, angry steps; perhaps the culmination of the heat wave and our last argument.
She glared at me as she sat, dropping her bag beside her on the ground, where I could see the cell phone sitting on top. She followed my glance down, and then she looked unrepentant back at me.
Maria came back at the exact moment she was going to speak. I noticed Maria hesitate for a second when she saw Susan, then put her smile in place to deliver my coffee.
Neither spoke nor looked at each other. I said, “Susan will have what I’m having, thanks.”
Maria nodded and left.
“Now,” I said, leaning back in my seat, “I’m sure there’s a perfectly good explanation as to why you didn’t tell me about the phone, but that first time you disappeared, I’d guessed you needed to keep in touch with your business interests. I thought it somewhat unwisethat you should come out when the board of one of your companies was trying to remove you, because of what was it, an unexplained absence? All you had to do was tell me there were problems and you needed to remain at home to resolve them.”
My comment elicited a sideways look, with a touch of surprise.
“It was unfortunate timing on their behalf, and I didn’t want you to think everything else was more important than us. There were issues before I came, and I thought the people at home would be able to manage without me for at least a week, but I was wrong.”
“Why come at all. A phone call would have sufficed.”
“I had to see you, talk to you. At least we have had a chance to do that. I’m sorry about yesterday. I once told you I would not become my mother, but I’m afraid I sounded just like her. I misjudged just how much this role would affect me, and truly, I’m sorry.”
An apology was the last thing I expected.
“You have a lot of work to do catching up after being away, and of course, in replacing your mother and gaining the requisite respect as the new Lady Featherington. I think it would be for the best if I were not another distraction. We have plenty of time to reacquaint ourselves when you get past all these teething issues.”
“You’re not coming with me?” She sounded disappointed.
“I think it would be for the best if I didn’t.”
“Why?”
“It should come as no surprise to you that I’ve been keeping an eye on your progress. You are so much better doing your job without me. I told your mother once that when the time came I would not like the responsibilities of being your husband. Now that I have seen what it could possibly entail, I like it even less. You might also want to reconsider our arrangement, after all, we only had a marriage of convenience, and now that those obligations have been fulfilled, we both have the option of terminating it. I won’t make things difficult for you if that’s what you want.”
It was yet another anomaly, I thought; she should look distressed, and I would raise the matter of that arrangement. Perhaps she had forgotten the finer points. I, on the other hand, had always known we would not last forever. The perplexed expression, to me, was a sign she might have forgotten.
Then, her expression changed. “Is that what you want?”
“I wasn’t madly in love with you when we made that arrangement, so it was easy to agree to your terms, but inexplicably, since then, my feelings for you changed, and I would be sad if we parted ways. But the truth is, I can’t see how this is going to work.”
“In saying that, do you think I don’t care for you?”
That was exactly what I was thinking, but I wasn’t going to voice that opinion out loud. “You spent a lot of time finding new ways to make my life miserable, Susan. You and that wretched friend of yours, Lucy. While your attitude improved after we were married, that was because you were going to use me when you went to see your father, and then almost let me go to prison for your murder.”
“I had nothing to do with that, other than to leave, and I didn’t agree with Lucy that you should be made responsible for my disappearance. I cannot be held responsible for the actions of my mother. She hated you; Lucy didn’t understand you, and Millie told me I was stupid for not loving you in return, and she was right. Why do you think I gave you such a hard time? You made it impossible not to fall in love with you, and it nearly changed my mind about everything I’d been planning so meticulously. But perhaps there was a more subliminal reason why I did because after I left, I wanted to believe, if anything went wrong, you would come and find me.”
“How could you possibly know that I’d even consider doing something like that, given what you knew about me?”
“Prendergast made a passing comment when my mother asked him about you; he told us you were very good at finding people and even better at fixing problems.”
“And yet here we are, one argument away from ending it.”
I could see Maria hovering, waiting for the right moment to deliver her coffee, then go back and find Gianna, the café owner, instead. Gianna was more abrupt and, for that reason, was rarely seen serving the customers. Today, she was particularly cantankerous, banging the cake dish on the table and frowning at Susan before returning to her kitchen. Gianna didn’t like Susan either.
Behind me, I heard a car stop, and when she looked up, I knew it was for her. She had arrived with nothing, and she was leaving with nothing.
She stood. “Last chance.”
“Forever?”
She hesitated and then shook away the look of annoyance on her face. “Of course not. I wanted you to come back with me so we could continue working on our relationship. I agree there are problems, but it’s nothing we can’t resolve if we try.”
I had been trying. “It’s too soon for both of us, Susan. I need to be able to trust you, and given the circumstances, and all that water under the bridge, I’m not sure if I can yet.”
She frowned at me. “As you wish.” She took an envelope out of her bag and put it on the table. “When you are ready, it’s an open ticket home. Please make it sooner rather than later. Despite what you think of me, I have missed you, and I have no intention of ending it between us.”
That said, she glared at me for a minute, shook her head, then walked to the car. I watched her get in and the car drive slowly away.
The Goldilocks Dilemma in Content Creation: How to Find Your Readers’ Sweet Spot
Let’s be honest: in the digital age, attention is the world’s most valuable currency.
Every time someone opens a browser, scrolls through social media, or checks their email inbox, they are bombarded with thousands of competing messages. Videos auto-play, notifications ping, and headlines scream for a fraction of a second of their day.
For writers, bloggers, and marketers, grabbing the reader’s attention is only half the battle. Keeping it is where the real war is fought.
This brings us to the eternal debate of the digital writing world: brevity. We are constantly told to keep it short, keep it punchy, and cut the fluff. But in our quest to be concise, are we starving our readers of the depth they actually crave? Is there a line where “short” turns into “shallow,” and “long” turns into “boring”?
Let’s explore the Goldilocks dilemma of content length—how to know what is too much, what is not enough, and how to keep your readers hooked right down to the final period.
The Death of the Attention Span (And Why It’s a Myth)
You’ve probably heard the statistic a dozen times: Humans now have an attention span of 8 seconds—shorter than a goldfish.
It’s a great soundbite, but it’s largely a myth. People don’t have inherently shorter attention spans today; rather, they have higher standards for what deserves their attention.
If a reader clicks on your article and immediately bounces back to Google, it’s rarely because the piece was too long. More often, it’s because the introduction was sluggish, the formatting was a wall of text, or the content failed to deliver on the promise of the headline.
When a reader is genuinely engaged, they will happily spend 10, 15, or 20 minutes reading a deeply reported, comprehensive piece. Conversely, if content is unengaging, even a 300-word blog post will feel like an eternity.
The goal isn’t necessarily to make your writing short. The goal is to make it effortless to consume.
When Is It “Not Enough”? (The Danger of Under-Delivering)
In the rush to respect the reader’s time, many creators swing too far in the direction of brevity. They strip away nuance, context, and personality, leaving behind a skeletal shell of information.
This is what we call the Wikipedia trap or thin content.
When your content isn’t enough, you run into three major problems:
You sacrifice value: If a reader can find the exact same surface-level information in the first three results of a Google search, you haven’t given them a reason to stay.
You lose authority: Short, superficial answers rarely build trust. Readers want to know why something is true, not just what is true. Depth demonstrates expertise.
The “Unsatisfied Bounce”: Have you ever clicked an article, scrolled through a few vague paragraphs, and realised you learned absolutely nothing new? It’s frustrating. When content is not enough, it leaves the reader feeling cheated out of their time.
The Rule for Minimum Viable Length: Your piece should be only as long as it takes to completely solve the reader’s problem, answer their question, or deliver an emotional payoff. If you leave loose ends, you haven’t written enough.
When Is It “Too Much”? (The Danger of the Digital Dump)
On the flip side, we’ve all encountered the bloated blog post. You know the ones: 5,000 words of meandering prose that could easily have been summarised in 500 words.
Writers often fall into this trap for the wrong reasons—trying to hit arbitrary SEO word counts, over-explaining simple concepts, or simply falling in love with the sound of their own typing.
When your content is too much, the symptoms are glaring:
Fluff and padding: Using three adjectives where one would do; repeating the same point in different ways just to extend the paragraph.
Buried leads: Making the reader wade through a 500-word personal anecdote about your weekend before getting to the actual topic they searched for.
Cognitive overload: Hitting the reader with so much data, jargon, and unstructured thoughts that their brain simply shuts down.
Remember the cardinal rule of editing, famously attributed to writer Elmore Leonard (via Anton Chekhov): “Leave out the parts that readers skip.”
If a paragraph doesn’t move the narrative forward, answer a pressing question, or add distinct value, mercilessly cut it.
Finding the Sweet Spot: How to Keep Readers Hooked
So, how do you find the magical middle ground where length ceases to matter and engagement takes over? It comes down to a blend of structural psychology and empathetic writing.
1. Hook ‘Em Fast, Then Feed Them
Your introduction is the handshake. Make it firm, welcoming, and clear. Tell the reader immediately what they are going to get out of the piece. Once you’ve made that promise, dive straight into the substance without unnecessary throat-clearing.
2. Design for the Skimmer (Visual Rhythm)
Here’s a dirty little secret of the internet: People don’t read online—they scan.
Even the most dedicated readers use their eyes to preview a page before committing. If they see a massive, unbroken block of text, flight instincts kick in.
Use short paragraphs (1–3 sentences).
Utilise bold text for key takeaways.
Break up monotony with bullet points and numbered lists.
Include subheadings that act as signposts along the reader’s journey.
By creating visual rhythm, you make a long article feel short and manageable.
3. Match Length to Intent
Content length should always be dictated by the user’s intent.
If someone wants to know the current weather, a 2,000-word essay on meteorology is too much.
If someone wants to learn how to build a retirement portfolio from scratch, a 300-word summary is not enough.
Always ask yourself: What does the reader need to walk away with to feel satisfied? Give them exactly that, packaged as cleanly as possible.
The Bottom Line
Writing isn’t about hitting an arbitrary word count; it’s about choreography. It’s about taking a reader by the hand and leading them on a journey from point A to point B without losing them in the weeds or rushing them off the path.
Forget the obsession with being short. Forget the anxiety of needing to be long.
Instead, focus on being clear, valuable, and engaging. If you do that, your readers won’t care how long your article is—they’ll just be glad they stayed until the end.
What’s your take? Do you prefer bite-sized reads, or do you love sinking your teeth into long-form deep dives? Let’s discuss in the comments below!
Would you give up everything to be with the one you love?
…
Is love the metaphorical equivalent to ‘walking the plank’; a dive into uncharted waters?
For Henry, the only romance he was interested in was a life at sea, and when away from it, he strived to find sanctuary from his family and perhaps life itself. It takes him to a small village by the sea, a place he never expected to find another just like him, Michelle, whom he soon discovers is as mysterious as she is beautiful.
Henry had long since given up the notion of finding romance, and Michelle couldn’t get involved for reasons she could never explain, but in the end, both acknowledgedthat something had happened the moment they first met.
Plans were made, plans were revised, and hopes were shattered.
A chance encounter causes Michelle’s past to catch up with her, and whatever hope she had of having a normal life with Henry, or anyone else, is gone. To keep him alive, she has to destroy her blossoming relationship, an act that breaks her heart and shatters his.
But can love conquer all?
It takes a few words of encouragement from an unlikely source to send Henry and his friend Radly on an odyssey into the darkest corners of the red-light district in a race against time to find and rescue the woman he finally realises is the love of his life.
The cover, at the moment, looks like this:
Is love the metaphorical equivalent to ‘walking the plank’; a dive into uncharted waters?
For Henry, the only romance he was interested in was a life at sea, and when away from it, he strived to find sanctuary from his family and perhaps life itself. It takes him to a small village by the sea, s place he never expected to find another just like him, Michelle, whom he soon discovers is as mysterious as she is beautiful.
Henry had long since given up the notion of finding romance, and Michelle couldn’t get involved for reasons she could never explain, but in the end, both acknowledge that something happened the moment they first met.
Plans were made, plans were revised, and hopes were shattered.
A chance encounter causes Michelle’s past to catch up with her, and whatever hope she had of having a normal life with Henry, or anyone else, is gone. To keep him alive she has to destroy her blossoming relationship, an act that breaks her heart and shatters his.
But can love conquer all?
It takes a few words of encouragement from an unlikely source to send Henry and his friend Radly on an odyssey into the darkest corners of the red-light district in a race against time to find and rescue the woman he finally realizes is the love of his life.
Thrills, Spills, and just a dash of Romance 