Month: August 2026

The 2am Rant: Hotels versus the rest

Leave, Vacation, or Holiday – don’t you deserve a break?

Some people we know have come up for a holiday in what could be described as a very touristy location.

But is it for a ‘holiday’?

They have come from one state and are staying in what could be called an apartment, not a hotel.  They are here for a week.

So, they have a kitchen of sorts and can cook their own meals, unlike staying in a hotel room and having to eat out or in the hotel restaurant, and the apartment has a mini laundry.

How much different is this to being at home?

Perhaps we need to have a definition of the word ‘holiday’ and its variations.  A lot of people’s use the term ‘vacation’.  Others use the term ‘leave’.  Leave’s a difficult term because it can cover a number of types such as annual, sick, and maternity.

But whatever we want to call it, is it when you’re taking some time away from work.

Is it when you go ‘away’, that is to say anywhere but home?

You say, ‘I’m going on vacation.”

We say, “Oh, where are you going?”

Some say camping.  Is that any different than staying in an apartment, or even a holiday house?  Still all the same chores, cooking, cleaning, washing.

Is this why so many people are now going on cruises and hotels are so full these days.

There will always those who will go camping and stay is self-serve places like apartments, but for me, a holiday is staying in a five-star hotel where the only worry is where the nearest dry cleaner is.

 

 

 

What I learned about writing – Introduction: Why Your Choice of Software Matters

Writing isn’t just about putting words on a page; it’s a craft that demands focus, organisation, and the right set of tools to bring ideas to life. The software you choose can:

  • Boost productivity – by cutting down on manual formatting and navigation.
  • Protect your creative flow – by offering distraction‑free modes and version control.
  • Scale with your project – from a single‑page article to a 500‑page novel or a multi‑chapter research thesis.

With a flood of options on the market, two camps dominate the conversation:

  1. Dedicated writing software (think Scrivener, Ulysses, yWriter).
  2. Run‑of‑the‑mill word processors (Microsoft Word, Google Docs, Apple Pages).

Let’s dive deep into the strengths, weaknesses, and ideal use‑cases for each, so you can make an informed decision that aligns with your workflow.

1. Dedicated Writing Software – The Specialist’s Toolkit

1.1 What Makes a “Dedicated” App Different?

Dedicated writing apps are built from the ground up for long‑form, project‑based writing. They go beyond the classic “type‑and‑print” paradigm and provide:

FeatureWhy It Matters
Project‑level organisation (folders, corkboards, outline view)Keeps chapters, scenes, research, and notes in one place without endless scrolling.
Distraction‑free modesFull‑screen or “typewriter” view clears the screen of UI clutter, helping you stay in the zone.
Version control & snapshotsCapture a “snapshot” of a chapter at any point and revert without losing later edits.
Export versatilityExport to ePub, Kindle, PDF, Word, plain text, and even manuscript‑ready formats with a single click.
Metadata & taggingAttach custom fields (e.g., POV, status, word count) for advanced sorting and filtering.

1.2 Scrivener – The Industry Standard

“If you write a novel, a screenplay, or a dissertation, Scrivener is the Swiss Army knife you never knew you needed.” — John H., bestselling author

Pros

✔️Scrivener Highlights
Robust BinderDrag‑and‑drop chapters, scenes, and research PDFs into a hierarchical tree.
Corkboard & OutlinerVisualise story arcs with index cards; rearrange with a mouse swipe.
Split‑Screen EditingView two documents side‑by‑side (e.g., manuscript + notes).
Built‑in TemplatesPre‑made templates for novels, scripts, non‑fiction, and academic papers.
Cross‑PlatformmacOS, Windows, iOS (sync via Dropbox).

Cons

❌Potential Drawbacks
Learning CurveThe sheer number of features can overwhelm newcomers.
Price$49 (Mac/Windows) + $29 (iOS) – a one‑time purchase, but higher than a free Google account.
CollaborationNot designed for real‑time co‑authoring (though you can share exported files).

1.3 Other Notable Dedicated Apps

AppIdeal ForStandout Feature
Ulysses (macOS/iOS)Bloggers, journalists, Apple‑centric writersSeamless iCloud sync + Markdown simplicity
yWriter (Windows)Screenwriters & novelists on a budgetFree, robust scene‑based organisation
Storyist (macOS/iOS)Fiction & script writersIntegrated storyboard & script formatting

2. Run‑of‑the‑Mill Word Processors – The Everyday Workhorse

2.1 Microsoft Word – The Classic Giant

Word has been the default for decades, and its capabilities have expanded far beyond a simple text editor.

Pros

✔️Word Strengths
Universal CompatibilityAlmost every publisher, editor, and academic institution expects a .docx file.
Advanced FormattingStyles, footnotes, cross‑references, tables of contents – all built‑in.
Track Changes & CommentsIdeal for collaborative editing with editors or co‑authors.
Add‑ins & MacrosCustomize with VBA scripts for repetitive tasks.
Desktop & Online VersionsUse the full‑featured desktop app or the cloud‑based Word Online.

Cons

❌Word Weaknesses
Project Management LacksNo native folder‑like binder; you’ll need to open multiple files or use a master document (which can be unstable).
Distraction‑Heavy UIRibbon, sidebars, and toolbars can pull focus away from writing.
Limited Export OptionsNot as straightforward to output to ePub or Kindle format without third‑party plugins.

2.2 Google Docs – The Cloud‑Centric Contender

Google Docs is the go‑to for real‑time collaboration, especially in remote teams or classrooms.

Pros

✔️Google Docs Benefits
Real‑Time CollaborationMultiple users can edit simultaneously with live cursors.
Automatic Cloud SavesNo risk of losing work due to hardware failure.
Add‑Ons MarketplaceExtend functionality (e.g., citation managers, grammar checkers).
Access AnywhereBrowser‑based; works on any OS with internet.
Free TierGenerous storage via Google Drive.

Cons

❌Google Docs Limitations
Limited Formatting & StylesComplex manuscript formatting (e.g., long TOCs) can be clunky.
No Built‑In Project ViewYou’ll need to manage individual files manually in Drive.
Offline ModeWorks, but requires setup; performance can be slower offline.
Export FormatsPrimarily PDF, Word, plain text; no native ePub/KDP export.

2.3 When Word Processors Shine

ScenarioRecommended Tool
Academic Papers (APA/MLA/Chicago)Word (styles, citations, footnotes)
Team Reports or Shared DocsGoogle Docs (real‑time editing)
Short‑Form Content (blog posts, newsletters)Either – choose based on collaboration needs
Final Manuscript Formatting for PublishersWord (industry standard)

3. Decision Matrix – Matching Tool to Writer Type

Writer ProfilePrimary NeedsBest Fit
Novelist (300‑500+ pages, heavy outlining)Project organisation, scene tracking, flexible exportScrivener (or Ulysses for Mac/iOS)
ScreenwriterScript formatting, beat boards, quick revisionsFinal Draft (industry) or Scrivener (script template)
Academic ResearcherCitation management, footnotes, large reference libraryWord (with EndNote/Zotero) or Google Docs + add‑on
Freelance BloggerFast drafting, SEO collaboration, easy publishingGoogle Docs (collab) or Word (if you prefer offline)
Non‑fiction Author (multiple chapters, interviews, PDFs)Mixed media integration, flexible export, version snapshotsScrivener
Team of EditorsReal‑time comments, change tracking, simultaneous editingGoogle Docs (or Word Online)

4. Practical Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Chosen Software

  1. Start with a Template – Most dedicated apps ship with ready‑made templates that handle margins, headers, and chapter styles. Save time by customising once and reusing.
  2. Leverage Cloud Sync – Even if you love Scrivener, store your project folder in Dropbox or OneDrive to protect against hardware loss.
  3. Combine Tools – Write first drafts in a distraction‑free environment (Scrivener, Ulysses, or even a plain‑text editor), then import into Word for final formatting and submission.
  4. Use Keyboard Shortcuts – Learn the top 10 shortcuts for your platform; they shave seconds off every page.
  5. Backup Regularly – Set up an automatic backup schedule (e.g., weekly zip of your project folder) regardless of cloud storage.

5. Bottom Line: There Is No One‑Size‑Fits‑All Answer

  • If your writing is project‑heavy, non‑linear, and you need robust organisation, dedicated software like Scrivener (or its Mac‑centric cousins) is the clear winner.
  • If you work primarily in teams, need instant collaboration, or are delivering polished documents to publishers or academia, Microsoft Word or Google Docs will serve you better.

My personal recommendation? Use a hybrid workflow: draft and outline in Scrivener for its unrivalled project management, then export your manuscript to Word for final polishing, formatting, and sharing. For collaborative pieces, switch to Google Docs during the editing phase, then bring the clean version back into Word.

Bonus: Quick Comparison Chart

FeatureScrivenerUlyssesMicrosoft WordGoogle Docs
Project Binder✅✅❌❌
Distraction‑Free Mode✅✅❌❌
Real‑Time Collaboration❌❌✅ (online)✅
Advanced Export (ePub, Kindle)✅✅❌ (needs add‑on)❌
Citation ManagementLimitedLimited✅ (via add‑ins)✅ (via add‑ons)
Price (as of 2026)$49 (one‑time)$49.99/yr$149.99 (Microsoft 365)Free (Google Workspace)
Learning CurveModerateLowLowLow

Take Action Today

  1. Identify your primary writing goal (novel, article, thesis, team report).
  2. Match the goal to the software using the matrix above.
  3. Download a free trial (Scrivener offers a 30‑day trial; Word has a 60‑day Microsoft 365 trial).
  4. Test a small project—write a single chapter or a 1,000‑word article. Observe how the tool fits your workflow.
  5. Commit to the software that feels like an extension of your creative mind, not a barrier.

Happy writing! 🚀

365 Days of Writing, 2026 – 217

Day 217 – What constitutes a strong first line

…

Hook, Line, and Sinker: What Makes a Masterpiece First Line (And Why Readers Can’t Look Away)

You have about three seconds.

In the age of endless scrolling, infinite browser tabs, and shrinking attention spans, a reader’s finger hovers constantly over the back button or the swipe-up gesture. Whether you’re writing a sprawling epic fantasy, a punchy B2B blog post, or a gripping journalistic exposé, your opening line is your one and only bouncer. It either opens the velvet rope or tells the reader to move along.

So, what constitutes a strong first line—one that makes it utterly impossible for the reader not to know more?

Let’s break down the psychology of the irresistible hook, analyse some of the greatest opening lines in literature and non-fiction, and look at how you can weaponise your own introductions.

The Anatomy of an Irresistible First Line

A great first line doesn’t just sound pretty (though rhythm and cadence certainly help). It performs specific psychological heavy-lifting. It usually achieves at least one—if not all—of the following:

  1. It creates an “Information Gap”: Coined by economist George Loewenstein, the “information gap theory” states that curiosity happens when we feel a gap between what we know and what we want to know. A great opening line introduces a puzzle, a paradox, or an abrupt shift in reality that demands resolution.
  2. It establishes an unmistakable voice: Tone is the personality of your writing. A strong first line immediately signals who is speaking and how they see the world, whether that voice is cynical, lyrical, urgent, or darkly comedic.
  3. It drops the reader in media res: Great openers rarely start with throat-clearing, weather reports, or background exposition. They throw the reader into the deep end of the pool and let them figure out how to swim.

5 Types of Powerful First Lines (With Examples)

To understand how to craft your own magnetic openers, let’s look at five distinct archetypes of killer first lines and dissect why they work.

1. The Audacious Declaration

This type of opening makes a bold, sometimes shocking claim that forces the reader to sit up straight. It challenges conventional wisdom or immediately stakes out a controversial stance.

  • The Example: “Happy families are all alike; every unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.” — Leo Tolstoy, Anna Karenina
  • Why it works: Tolstoy doesn’t ease you into 19th-century Russian aristocracy; he drops a sweeping, absolute philosophical maxim. It immediately prompts the reader’s brain to object: Are all happy families really alike? Let me read on to see what he means. It frames the entire novel as an exploration of human misery and complexity.

2. The Unsettling Fact or Paradox

Nothing halts a scroll faster than a statement that defies logic or makes you slightly uncomfortable. It creates an instant cognitive itch that only reading the next sentence can scratch.

  • The Example: “It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen.” — George Orwell, 1984
  • Why it works: Notice the sleight of hand. Orwell lulls you into a sense of normalcy with “a bright cold day in April”—and then shatters reality with “the clocks were striking thirteen.” Without a single word of exposition, you instantly understand that something is deeply, chillingly wrong with this world. You must read on to find out what kind of society operates on a thirteen-hour clock.

3. The Confession or Secret

We are hardwired to lean in when someone whispers a secret. Starting a piece with a deeply personal confession—or an implication of guilt—creates instant intimacy and urgency.

  • The Example: “Caller ID does not adequately protect us from the people we already know.” — Lionel Shriver, We Need to Talk About Kevin
  • Why it works: This line is brilliant because it takes a mundane, modern technology (Caller ID) and twists it into a source of dread. It implies violence, domestic tension, and inescapable trauma right out of the gate. We know immediately that the narrator is hiding from someone, and the suspense is instantly palpable.

4. The Action-Packed Drop (In Media Res)

Instead of starting at the beginning, start in the middle of the chaos. This forces the reader to play catch-up, assembling the puzzle pieces in real-time.

  • The Example: “The man in black fled across the desert, and the gunslinger followed.” — Stephen King, The Dark Tower: The Gunslinger
  • Why it works: With just twelve words, King establishes pursuit, high stakes, stark geography, and two opposing forces. Who is the man in black? Why is he fleeing? Who is the gunslinger? You don’t know yet, but the kinetic energy of the sentence drags you across the desert sand behind them.

5. The Deadpan Absurdity

Humor and shock value are close cousins. When a narrator states something wildly bizarre with complete, deadpan seriousness, the reader is hooked by sheer curiosity and dark delight.

  • The Example: “You better not never tell nobody but God.” — Alice Walker, The Colour Purple
  • Why it works: This line is devastatingly intimate. Written in vernacular, it instantly establishes the protagonist’s youth, vulnerability, and the immense weight of the secret she is about to share. It feels illicit to read it, which makes looking away impossible.

How to Write Your Own Killer First Line

Knowing what a great first line looks like is one thing; reverse-engineering one for your own piece is another. When you are editing your introduction, run your opening sentence through this checklist:

  • Cut the throat-clearing: Delete any introductory phrases like “In today’s fast-paced world…” or “It has often been said that…” Start with the noun or the action.
  • Check the rhythm: Read your first line aloud. Does it have a musicality to it? Does it land with a punch, or does it trail off?
  • Ask: “So what?”: If your first line is “Content marketing is important for businesses,” your reader will yawn. If it is “Your content strategy is actively repelling your best customers,” your reader will panic—and keep reading.
  • Save it for last: Often, you won’t find your killer first line until you’ve finished writing the entire piece. Once you know what your story or article is actually about, go back to the top and write an opening that serves as the ultimate gateway.

The Bottom Line

A great first line is a promise. It’s a pact between you and the reader that says: If you give me your time, I will reward you with something extraordinary.

Master the art of the hook, and you’ll never have to worry about losing your audience before the journey has even begun.

…

Top 5 sights on the road less travelled – La Paz

Discovering La Paz: Five Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path

Introduction
Nestled amidst the towering peaks of the Andes, La Paz is a city of vibrant cultures and breathtaking landscapes. While many travellers flock to its iconic Witches Market and the Death Road, the Bolivian capital holds countless secrets for the curious. For those seeking an authentic, less-travelled journey, here are five extraordinary experiences that redefine what La Paz has to offer.

1. Cholitas Licking: A Celebration of Andean Identity
Step into the striking world of the cholitas, traditional Aymara women, and immerse yourself in their fearless blend of style, resilience, and heritage. This unique cultural encounter, often described as “Cholitas Licking,” features fashion shows, workshops, and artisan markets where cholitas showcase their vibrant polleras (dresses) and colonial-era masks. More than a spectacle, this experience challenges stereotypes and honours indigenous identity. Visit their community centres in El Alto for a deeper understanding of their role as cultural ambassadors.

Tip: Respect cultural significance—ask for permission before photographing participants.

2. Kallawaya School of Traditional Healing: Ancient Wisdom in Modern Medicine
Journey to the outskirts of La Paz to explore the Kallawaya School of Traditional Healing, a living archive of pre-Columbian medicinal knowledge. The Kallawaya people, renowned for their healing practices, offer workshops on herbal remedies, music therapy, and shamanic rituals. Wander their medicinal garden, where over 200 plant species are catalogued, and learn how to craft teas or tinctures for common ailments. This is a rare chance to connect with Bolivia’s spiritual and ecological heritage.

Tip: Book workshops in advance—offerings (regalos) to the mountain (apacheta) are customary.

3. Wuli Qhapaq Cable Car to Chimehua: Sky-High Serenity
Traverse the urban sprawl of La Paz aboard the Wuli Qhapaq (Red) cable car network. While most travellers stick to the main routes, venture to the Chimehua line, a golden cable car that extends into the Illimani Valley. This lesser-known route offers panoramic views of the Illimani volcano and descends into the lush, remote countryside. Alight at a local farm for a chicha (corn beer) tasting or a guided hike through cloud forests teeming with orchids.

Tip: Bring a reusable bottle for coca tea from the local market—perfect for altitude adjustment.

4. Sopocachi Caves: Earth’s Hidden Art Gallery
Just 20 minutes from downtown La Paz, the Sopocachi Cave System reveals a subterranean wonderland of stalactites, stalagmites, and ancient rock art. These caves, once inhabited by pre-Columbian communities, are adorned with mysterious symbols and animal carvings. The self-guided tour is affordable (£16-£20) and led by local guides who share tales of the caves’ role in ancestral rituals.

Tip: Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and bring a headlamp for optimal visibility.

5. Trek to the Valley of the Moon: A Martian Landscape
While Salar de Uyuni is Bolivia’s most famous attraction, venture toward the Valley of the Moon (Valle de la Luna) for a quieter, equally dramatic experience. Located near Salar de Cotapata, this surreal red and orange badlands, sculpted by wind and erosion, feels like another planet. Guided day tours from La Paz (lasting 8-10 hours) include a detour to this hidden gem, where photography and hiking are unspoiled by crowds.

Tip: Visit during dry seasons (April–September) for the best colour contrasts without mud.

Conclusion: La Paz, Redefined
La Paz is more than its skyline—it’s a gateway to the extraordinary. By stepping beyond the cobbled streets of the city, travellers can uncover traditions, landscapes, and communities that epitomise Bolivia’s soul. Whether you’re sipping chicha at a cloud forest farm or tracing your fingers along ancient rock art, these hidden adventures promise memories that linger long after your boots return to solid ground. So, pack your sense of curiosity and let La Paz surprise you.

Final Tip: Learn a few Aymara phrases—Suma qhapaq kama (Beautiful is the life well lived) is a poetic way to end your journey. 🌄

In a word: Bug

Being a computer programmer, this word had a particular meaning for me, where a part of the programme did something other than expected.

Like unexpectedly stopping and freezing the screen.  Some very famous programs and operating systems used to have a lot of these ‘bugs’.

More familiarly for all of us, a bug is an unwanted insect pest like a fly, or an ant, though there’s a host of those pesky ‘bugs’.

You could bug someone by hanging around and asking inane questions.

You could also bug someone by surreptitiously planting a microphone on them, or somewhere in their house, car, or office.

A person could have a bug, meaning there’s some germ or bacteria they’ve picked up that makes them very ill, like a cold, or pneumonia.  Or, more than likely, it’s a bug going around.  School children are particularly susceptible.

And if you like reading books you might have caught the reading bug.

You could tell someone to bug off, that is, to go away.

I might want to bug out, as in disappear, especially if there was someone I didn’t want to see.

Skeletons in the closet, and doppelgangers

A story called “Mistaken Identity”

…

How many of us have skeletons in the closet that we know nothing about? The skeletons we know about generally stay there, but those we do not, well, they have a habit of coming out of left field when we least expect them.

In this case, when you see your photo on a TV screen with the accompanying text that says you are wanted by every law enforcement agency in Europe, you’re in a state of shock, only to be compounded by those same police, armed and menacing, kicking the door down.

I’d been thinking about this premise for a while after I discovered my mother had a boyfriend before she married my father, a boyfriend who was, by all accounts, the man who was the love of her life.

Then, in terms of coming up with an idea for a story, what if she had a child by him that we didn’t know about, which might mean I had a half-brother or sister I knew nothing about. It’s not an uncommon occurrence from what I’ve been researching.

There are many ways of putting a spin on this story.

Then, in the back of my mind, I remembered a story an acquaintance at work was once telling us over morning tea, that a friend of a friend had a mother who had a twin sister and that each of the sisters had a son by the same father, without each knowing of the father’s actions, both growing up without the other having any knowledge of their half brother, only to meet by accident on the other side of the world.

It was an encounter that in the scheme of things might never have happened, and each would have remained oblivious of the other.

For one sister, the relationship was over before she discovered she was pregnant, and therefore had not told the man he was a father. It was no surprise the relationship foundered when she discovered he was also having a relationship with her sister, a discovery that caused her to cut all ties with both of them and never speak to either from that day.

It’s a story with more twists and turns than a country lane!

And a great idea for a story.

That story is called ‘Mistaken Identity’.

Top 5 sights on the road less travelled – Santiago

Discover Santiago’s Hidden Treasures: 5 Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures

Santiago, Chile’s vibrant capital, is often associated with its iconic landmarks like Cerro San Cristóbal and the Central Cathedral. But for travellers eager to uncover the city’s soul, there’s a world of hidden gems waiting to be explored. Let’s venture beyond the guidebooks and dive into Santiago’s lesser-known treasures that promise unforgettable experiences. Grab your sense of curiosity and join us on this journey!

1. Barrio Lastarria: A Cultural Escape

Tucked just north of downtown, Barrio Lastarria is a bohemian enclave where cobblestone streets, ivy-clad buildings, and creative energy reign. This neighbourhood is a haven for artists, intellectuals, and foodies. Stroll through its tree-lined avenues to discover cozy cafés, indie bookstores, and art galleries like Galería Gabriela Mistral. Don’t miss the Cine Lastarria, a beloved 19th-century cinema that hosts independent films and cultural events. For lunch, try El Rincón de Mafalda, a charming parrilla where locals gather for juicy empanadas and artisanal wines. Weekends are best spent exploring its bustling outdoor markets and hidden patios that buzz with live music.

2. Explore Historic Downtown & Plaza de Armas

Visit the heart of Santiago, see the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Presidential Palace (La Moneda), and soak in the atmosphere with street performers at the main square, Plaza de Armas. Historic Downtown Santiago, centred around the lively Plaza de Armas, is Chile’s historical heart, featuring iconic buildings like the Metropolitan Cathedral, Central Post Office, and National History Museum, all surrounding the leafy square with its monuments, street performers, and vibrant local atmosphere, offering a perfect starting point for exploring the city’s rich heritage and culture. Visitors can enjoy free entry to the square and surrounding museums, observe local life, and easily access it via the Metro.

3. Mapocho Valley: A Modern Cultural Oasis

Once an industrial hub, the Mapocho Valley has been transformed into Santiago’s hippest cultural destination. Home to the Gabriela Mistral Park, this riverside haven offers jogging trails, art installations, and the striking Biomuseo, a modern art space with rotating exhibitions. Nearby, the Pabellón 5 hosts innovative food and craft fairs, while the Museo del Banco Central showcases Chilean art and history. Arrive in the evening to witness the glow of the Mapocho Wharf, a perfect spot to sip a chicha morada (purple corn drink) and watch the city skyline shimmer.

4. Mercado de las Pulgas: Time-Travel at the Flea Market

Every Saturday and Sunday, the Mercado de las Pulgas (Flea Market) resurrects Santiago’s colonial past in the Mansión Villarrica. Spread over 30 blocks, this open-air bazaar is a treasure hunt for antiques, handicrafts, and vintage clothing. Haggling is part of the fun—pick up a handwoven poncho or a pre-Columbian artifact at stalls owned by passionate vendors. The surrounding Parque Forestal is perfect for a post-shopping stroll, where street performers and food trucks add to the lively atmosphere.

5. Fundo Balmaceda: A Botanical Sanctuary

Tucked away in the leafy suburb of Ñuñoa, Fundo Balmaceda is a hidden garden paradise. This historic estate features lush botanical gardens, tranquil ponds, and a small museum of pre-Columbian art. It’s a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle, where you can picnic, bird-watch, or simply lose yourself in the beauty of over 1,500 species of plants. The best part? Admission is free, and the site’s blend of nature and history makes it a local favourite. Tip: Visit during the day (it’s closed at night) and bring a camera for those Insta-worthy moments.

Local Tips for the Best Experience

  • Getting Around: Use Santiago’s efficient metro system or bike-share program (Bicentenario) to reach these spots.
  • Timing: Plan your visits around local events—check out the Santiago a Mil theatre festival or Ciclo del Terror horror film season for added flair.
  • Safety: Stay in well-populated areas, especially in neighbourhoods like Barrio Lastarria and La Vega Central.

Conclusion: Santiago Beyond the Surface
Santiago’s magic isn’t just in its skyline or its museums—it’s in the whispered stories of its hidden corners. From the depths of the catacombs to the blooms of Fundo Balmaceda, these experiences offer a deeper connection to Chile’s heritage and creativity. So, step off the main road; the most rewarding adventures lie where few tourists tread. ¡Buen viaje!

Final Note: Ready to explore? Share your favourite hidden spots in Santiago in the comments—let’s keep the road less travelled ever-evolving! 🌿

An excerpt from “Amnesia”, a work in progress

I remembered a bang.

I remembered the car slewing sideways.

I remember another bang, and then it was lights out.

When I opened my eyes again, I saw the sky.

Or I could be underwater.

Everything was blurred.

I tried to focus, but I couldn’t. My eyes were full of water.

What happened?

Why was I lying down?

Where was I?

I cast my mind back, trying to remember.

It was a blank.

What, when, who, why and where are questions I should easily be able to answer. These are questions any normal person could answer.

I tried to move. Bad, bad mistake.

I did not realise the scream I heard was my own. Just before my body shut down.

“My God! What happened?”

I could hear, not see. I was moving, lying down, looking up.

I was blind. Everything was black.

“Car accident; hit a tree, sent the passenger flying through the windscreen. Pity to poor bastard didn’t get the message that seat belts save lives.”

Was I that poor bastard?

“Report?” A new voice, male, authoritative.

“Multiple lacerations, broken collar bone, broken arm in three places, both legs broken below the knees, one badly. We are not sure of internal injuries, but ruptured spleen, cracked ribs and pierced right lung are fairly evident, x-rays will confirm that and anything else.”

“What isn’t broken?”

“His neck.”

“Then I would have to say we are looking at the luckiest man on the planet.”

I heard the shuffling of pages.

“OR1 ready?”

“Yes. On standby since we were first advised.”

“Good. Let’s see if we can weave some magic.”

Magic.

It was the first word that popped into my head when I surfaced from the bottom of the lake. That first breath, after holding it for so long, was sublime, and, in reality, agonising.

Magic, because it seemed like I’d spent a long time underwater.

Or somewhere.

I tried to speak but couldn’t. The words were just in my head.

Was it night or was it day?

Was it hot, or was it cold?

Where was I?

Around me, it felt cool.

It was incredibly quiet. No noise except for the hissing of air through an air-conditioning vent. Or that was the sound of pure silence.  And with it the revelation that silence was not silent. It was noisy.

I didn’t try to move.

Instinctively, somehow, I knew not to.

A previous unpleasant experience?

I heard what sounded like a door opening, and noticeably quiet footsteps slowly came into the room. They stopped. I could hear breathing, slightly laboured, a sound I’d heard before.

My grandfather.

He had smoked all his life until he was diagnosed with lung cancer. But for years before that, he had emphysema. The person in the room was on their way down the same path. I could smell the smoke.

I wanted to tell whoever it was the hazards of smoking.

I couldn’t.

I heard a metallic clanging sound from the end of the bed. A moment later, the clicking of a pen, then writing.

“You are in a hospital.” A female voice suddenly said. “You’ve been in a bad accident. You cannot talk or move; all you can do, for the moment, is listen to me. I am a nurse. You have been here for 45 days and just came out of a medically induced coma. There is nothing to be afraid of.”

She had a very soothing voice.

Her fingers stroked the back of my hand.

“Everything is fine.”

Define fine, I thought. I wanted to ask her what ‘fine’ meant.

“Just count backwards from 10.”

Why?

I didn’t reach seven.

Over the next ten days, that voice became my lifeline to sanity. Every morning, I longed to hear it, if only for the few moments she was in the room, those few waking moments when I believed she, and someone else who never spoke, were doing tests. I knew it had to be someone else because I could smell the essence of lavender. My grandmother had worn a similar scent.

It rose above the disinfectant.

She was another doctor, not the one who had been there the day I arrived. Not the one who had used some ‘magic’ and kept me alive.

It was then, in those moments before she put me under again, that I thought, what if I was paralysed? It would explain a lot. A chill went through me.

The next morning, she was back.

“My name is Winifred. We don’t know what your name is, not yet. In a few days, you will be better, and you will be able to ask us questions. You were in an accident, and you were very severely injured, but I can assure you there will be no lasting damage.”

More tests, and then when I expected the lights to go out, they didn’t. Not for a few minutes more. This was how I would be integrated back into the world. A little bit at a time.

The next morning, she came later than usual, and I’d been awake for a few minutes. “You have bandages over your eyes and face. You had bad lacerations to your face and glass in your eyes. We will know more when the bandages come off in a few days. Your face will take longer to heal. It was necessary to do some plastic surgery.”

Lacerations, glass in my eyes, car accidents, plastic surgery. By logical deduction, I knew I was the poor bastard thrown through the windscreen. It was a fleeting memory from the day I was admitted.

How could that happen?

That was the first of many startling revelations. The second was the fact that I could not remember the crash. Equally shocking, in that same moment, was the fact that I could not remember before the crash either, or only vague memories after.

But the most shattering of all these revelations was the one where I realised I could not remember my name.

I tried to calm down, sensing a rising panic.

I was just disoriented, I told myself. After 45 days in an induced coma, it had messed with my mind, and it was only a temporary lapse. Yes, that’s what it was, a temporary lapse. I will remember tomorrow. Or the next day.

Sleep was a blessed relief.

The next day I didn’t wake up feeling nauseous. I think they’d lowered the pain medication. I’d heard that morphine could have that effect. Then, how could I know that but not who I am?

Now I knew Winifred, the nurse, was preparing me for something unbelievably bad. She was upbeat and soothing, giving me a new piece of information each morning. This morning, “You do not need to be afraid. Everything is going to be fine. The doctor tells me you are going to recover with little scarring. You will need some physiotherapy to recover from your physical injuries, but that’s in the future. We need to let you mend a little bit more before then.”

So, I was not going to be able to leap out of bed and walk out of the hospital any time soon. I don’t suppose I’d ever leapt out of bed, except as a young boy. I suspect I’d sustained a few broken bones. I guess learning to walk again was the least of my problems.

But there was something else. I picked it up in the timbre of her voice, a hesitation, or reluctance. It sent another chill through me.

This time, I was left awake for an hour before she returned.

This time, sleep was restless.

Scenes were playing in my mind, nothing I recognised, and nothing lasting longer than a glimpse. Me. Other people, I didn’t know. Or I knew them and couldn’t remember them.

Until they disappeared, slowly like the glowing dot in the centre of the computer screen, before finally fading to black.

The morning the bandages were to come off, she came in early and woke me. I had another restless night, the images becoming clearer, but nothing recognisable.

“This morning, the doctor will be removing the bandages over your eyes. Don’t expect an immediate effect. Your sight may come back quickly, or it may come back slowly, but we believe it will come back.”

I wanted to believe I was not expecting anything, but I was. It was human nature. I did not want to be blind as well as paralysed. I had to have at least one reason to live.

I dozed again until I felt a gentle hand on my shoulder. I could smell the lavender; the other doctor was back. And I knew the hand on my shoulder was Winifred’s. She told me not to be frightened.

I was amazed to realise at that moment, I wasn’t.

I heard the scissors cutting the bandages.

I felt the bandage being removed and the pressure coming off my eyes. I could feel the pads covering both eyes.

Then a moment when nothing happened.

Then the pads are gently lifted and removed.

Nothing.

I blinked my eyes, once, twice. Nothing.

“Just hold on a moment,” Winifred said. A few seconds later, I could feel a cool towel wiping my face, and then gently wiping my eyes. There was ointment or something else in them.

Then a flash. Well, not a flash, but like when a light is turned on and off. A moment later, it was brighter, not the inky blackness of before, but a shade of grey.

She wiped my eyes again.

I blinked a few more times, and then the light returned, and it was like looking through water, at distorted and blurry objects in the distance.

I blinked again, and she wiped my eyes again.

Blurry objects took shape. A face looking down on me, an elderly lady with a kindly face, surely Winifred, who was smiling. And on the opposite side of the bed, the doctor, a Chinese woman of indescribable beauty.

I nodded.

“You can see?”

I nodded again.

“Clearly?”

I nodded.

“Very good. We will just draw the curtains now. We don’t want to overdo it. Tomorrow we will be taking off the bandages on your face. Then, it will be the next milestone. Talking.”

I couldn’t wait.

When morning came, I found myself afraid. Winifred had mentioned scarring; there were bandages on my face. I knew, but wasn’t quite sure how I knew, I wasn’t the most handsome of men before the accident, so this might be an improvement.

I was not sure why I didn’t think it would be the case.

They came at mid-morning, the nurse, Winifred, and the doctor, the exquisite Chinese. She was the distraction, taking my mind off the reality of what I was about to see.

Another doctor came into the room before the bandages were removed, and he was introduced as the plastic surgeon who had ‘repaired’ the ravages of the accident. It had been no easy job, but, with a degree of egotism, he did say he was one of the best in the world.

I found it hard to believe that if he were, he would be at a small country hospital.

“Now just remember, what you might see now is not how you will look in a few months.”

Warning enough.

The Chinese doctor started removing the bandages. She did it slowly and made sure it did not hurt. My skin was very tender, and I suspect still bruised, either from the accident or the surgery, I didn’t know.

Then it was done.

The plastic surgeon gave his work a thorough examination and seemed pleased with it. “Coming along nicely,” he said to the other doctor. He issued some instructions on how to manage the skin, nodded to me, and I thanked him before he left.

I noticed Winifred had a mirror in her hand and was reticent in using it. “As I said,” she said, noticing me looking at the mirror, “what you see now will not be the result. The doctor said it was going to heal with little scarring. You have been extremely fortunate that he was available. Are you ready?”

I nodded.

She showed me.

I tried not to be reviled at the red and purple mess that used to be my face. At a guess, I would have to say he had to put it all back together again, but not knowing what I looked like before, I had no benchmark. All I had was a snippet of memory that told me I was not the tall, dark, and handsome type.

And I still could not talk. There was a reason; he had worked in that area too. Just breathing hurt. I think I would save up anything I had to say for another day. I could not even smile. Or frown. Or grimace.

“We’ll leave you for a while. Everyone needs a little time to get used to the change. I suspect you are not sure if there has been an improvement in last year’s model. Well, time will tell.”

A new face?

I could not remember the old one.

My memory still hadn’t returned.

…

©  Charles Heath  2024-2026

365 Days of Writing, 2026 – 217

Day 217 – What constitutes a strong first line

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Hook, Line, and Sinker: What Makes a Masterpiece First Line (And Why Readers Can’t Look Away)

You have about three seconds.

In the age of endless scrolling, infinite browser tabs, and shrinking attention spans, a reader’s finger hovers constantly over the back button or the swipe-up gesture. Whether you’re writing a sprawling epic fantasy, a punchy B2B blog post, or a gripping journalistic exposé, your opening line is your one and only bouncer. It either opens the velvet rope or tells the reader to move along.

So, what constitutes a strong first line—one that makes it utterly impossible for the reader not to know more?

Let’s break down the psychology of the irresistible hook, analyse some of the greatest opening lines in literature and non-fiction, and look at how you can weaponise your own introductions.

The Anatomy of an Irresistible First Line

A great first line doesn’t just sound pretty (though rhythm and cadence certainly help). It performs specific psychological heavy-lifting. It usually achieves at least one—if not all—of the following:

  1. It creates an “Information Gap”: Coined by economist George Loewenstein, the “information gap theory” states that curiosity happens when we feel a gap between what we know and what we want to know. A great opening line introduces a puzzle, a paradox, or an abrupt shift in reality that demands resolution.
  2. It establishes an unmistakable voice: Tone is the personality of your writing. A strong first line immediately signals who is speaking and how they see the world, whether that voice is cynical, lyrical, urgent, or darkly comedic.
  3. It drops the reader in media res: Great openers rarely start with throat-clearing, weather reports, or background exposition. They throw the reader into the deep end of the pool and let them figure out how to swim.

5 Types of Powerful First Lines (With Examples)

To understand how to craft your own magnetic openers, let’s look at five distinct archetypes of killer first lines and dissect why they work.

1. The Audacious Declaration

This type of opening makes a bold, sometimes shocking claim that forces the reader to sit up straight. It challenges conventional wisdom or immediately stakes out a controversial stance.

  • The Example: “Happy families are all alike; every unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.” — Leo Tolstoy, Anna Karenina
  • Why it works: Tolstoy doesn’t ease you into 19th-century Russian aristocracy; he drops a sweeping, absolute philosophical maxim. It immediately prompts the reader’s brain to object: Are all happy families really alike? Let me read on to see what he means. It frames the entire novel as an exploration of human misery and complexity.

2. The Unsettling Fact or Paradox

Nothing halts a scroll faster than a statement that defies logic or makes you slightly uncomfortable. It creates an instant cognitive itch that only reading the next sentence can scratch.

  • The Example: “It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen.” — George Orwell, 1984
  • Why it works: Notice the sleight of hand. Orwell lulls you into a sense of normalcy with “a bright cold day in April”—and then shatters reality with “the clocks were striking thirteen.” Without a single word of exposition, you instantly understand that something is deeply, chillingly wrong with this world. You must read on to find out what kind of society operates on a thirteen-hour clock.

3. The Confession or Secret

We are hardwired to lean in when someone whispers a secret. Starting a piece with a deeply personal confession—or an implication of guilt—creates instant intimacy and urgency.

  • The Example: “Caller ID does not adequately protect us from the people we already know.” — Lionel Shriver, We Need to Talk About Kevin
  • Why it works: This line is brilliant because it takes a mundane, modern technology (Caller ID) and twists it into a source of dread. It implies violence, domestic tension, and inescapable trauma right out of the gate. We know immediately that the narrator is hiding from someone, and the suspense is instantly palpable.

4. The Action-Packed Drop (In Media Res)

Instead of starting at the beginning, start in the middle of the chaos. This forces the reader to play catch-up, assembling the puzzle pieces in real-time.

  • The Example: “The man in black fled across the desert, and the gunslinger followed.” — Stephen King, The Dark Tower: The Gunslinger
  • Why it works: With just twelve words, King establishes pursuit, high stakes, stark geography, and two opposing forces. Who is the man in black? Why is he fleeing? Who is the gunslinger? You don’t know yet, but the kinetic energy of the sentence drags you across the desert sand behind them.

5. The Deadpan Absurdity

Humor and shock value are close cousins. When a narrator states something wildly bizarre with complete, deadpan seriousness, the reader is hooked by sheer curiosity and dark delight.

  • The Example: “You better not never tell nobody but God.” — Alice Walker, The Colour Purple
  • Why it works: This line is devastatingly intimate. Written in vernacular, it instantly establishes the protagonist’s youth, vulnerability, and the immense weight of the secret she is about to share. It feels illicit to read it, which makes looking away impossible.

How to Write Your Own Killer First Line

Knowing what a great first line looks like is one thing; reverse-engineering one for your own piece is another. When you are editing your introduction, run your opening sentence through this checklist:

  • Cut the throat-clearing: Delete any introductory phrases like “In today’s fast-paced world…” or “It has often been said that…” Start with the noun or the action.
  • Check the rhythm: Read your first line aloud. Does it have a musicality to it? Does it land with a punch, or does it trail off?
  • Ask: “So what?”: If your first line is “Content marketing is important for businesses,” your reader will yawn. If it is “Your content strategy is actively repelling your best customers,” your reader will panic—and keep reading.
  • Save it for last: Often, you won’t find your killer first line until you’ve finished writing the entire piece. Once you know what your story or article is actually about, go back to the top and write an opening that serves as the ultimate gateway.

The Bottom Line

A great first line is a promise. It’s a pact between you and the reader that says: If you give me your time, I will reward you with something extraordinary.

Master the art of the hook, and you’ll never have to worry about losing your audience before the journey has even begun.

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“The Devil You Don’t”, she was the girl you would not take home to your mother!

Now only $0.99 at https://amzn.to/2Xyh1ow

…

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’.

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