Author: aloysius5

Over the years, I have traveled extensively and kept journals, with the idea that one day all of those places would become locations in books. Notebooks filled with odd characters, people and incidents observed, and whole tracts of stories written when the on the spot inspiration has been a driving force. All of this is the basis of the first three novels, Sunday In New York, set, of course, in New York, probably my favorite city in the world, “Echoes From The Past’ equally set in New York, Brooklyn Heights and Philadelphia. The third, The Devil You Don’t, travels through Europe, starting in Geneva, moving to Rome, then Sorrento, and then to Venice. Now, my passion to write is fuelled by travel and fine dining. When I take a break from these, I get to torment my three wonderful grandchildren whom I actively encourage to read as much as they can, and more recently to also write. As for almost every other writer, I would not be able to do any of this without my wife who has put up with my moodiness, the times when I'm locked away in a room trying to push out another 2,000 words, and yet despite everything still puts up with me. I wish I could say the same for our cat. Alas, I am still trying to work out how to be his friend!

A photograph from the inspirational bin – 32

This is a spot behind a group of restaurants at Victoria Point, Queensland.

But it could be anywhere, like a spot we saw on a boat trip on a river in the Daintree, in far north Queensland

So, this could be a spot, not far inland from the ocean where smugglers, or drug runners come ashore, in a place so remote they would never get caught.

Unless an enterprising federal agent comes up with a plan to track them from the ocean side using satellite images, or reported sightings of suspicious activity.

My money is on a random sighting, a vague report files in a small town police station, and a body washed up in shore, apparently the victim of a crocodile attack. Or not a crocodile.

It cold be a fishing trip gone wrong in a backwater stream, a weekend away by a dialled group of friends, who are not really friends, which all comes to a head when one of the friends go missing.

Or, I’d you like the idea of historical drama, a story about the first expedition from the bottom of Australia to the very top, for the first time, with all the hazards of rivers to cross, paths to create though the bush, the heat, the animals, the local inhabitants who have yet to see Europeans.

To be honest, I would not want to be one of those early explorers, especially those who went inland and struck desert, or died just short of their goal.

Just as an aside, we did learn about these people, Hume and Hovell, Blaxland, Wentworth and Lawson, Burke and Wills, and others.

What I learned about writing – You can take a day off, even from social media

It’s like dying a literary death.

The silence is deafening.

It seems, after a lot of trial and error, trying this that and the other, I’ve discovered that you only get out of social media what you put into it.

And it means that unless you are on it 24 hours a day, every day, spruiking, or whatever it is we writers are supposed to do promoting ourselves and our work, nothing happens.

Don’t get me wrong, there are those who are raging successes, and I am happy for them.

But for us living on the fringe, and there is quite a lot of us, trying valiantly to reach the public eyes, the battle is just that, a battle.

When do you get time to write?

Is it a choice between writing, or trying to garner support and a following?

The authors who are published by the large publishers will tell you that it is the only way to become an author, where all of the marketing is done by the publisher and all they have to do is put in an appearance and pocket the royalties.

I don’t think that’s necessarily true.

But when I find that happy medium between marketing and writing, I’ll let you know.

Until then, I guess there will be more days like today, and that battle going on in your head that is telling you to give up, it’s never going to get any better.

Maybe not.

But give up? Not today, nor tomorrow.

After all, we live in a world where anything is possible.

365 Days of writing, 2026 – 296

Day 296 – Make a plan

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Make a Plan, Don’t Just Wing It: Why a Structured Approach Beats “Flying By the Seat of Your Pants” (and What Edgar Allan Poe Can Teach Us)

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Introduction – The “Wing‑It” Dilemma

We’ve all been there: a deadline looms, ideas swirl, and the temptation to wing it feels like the fastest route to a finished product. Sure, improvisation can spark creativity, and sometimes a spontaneous effort does work out. But more often than not, it leads to missed details, re‑work, and un‑met expectations.

What if there was a proven method that blends the freedom of creativity with the reliability of a roadmap?

Enter the timeless insight of Edgar Allan Poe—the master of suspense, not just in his macabre tales, but also in his essay The Philosophy of Composition. Poe argued that great art is the result of meticulous planning, not chaotic inspiration. In today’s fast‑paced world, his principle is a powerful antidote to the “wing‑it” habit.

In this post you’ll learn:

Why planning trumps wing‑ing it (backed by psychology and productivity research).
How Poe’s seven‑step composition model maps onto modern project planning.
A practical, SEO‑friendly framework you can apply to any personal or professional goal.

Ready to trade luck for a solid plan? Let’s dive in.

1. The Hidden Costs of “Wing‑It”

Aspect	Wing‑It	Planned Approach
Time Management	Reactive; inevitable overtime	Predictable milestones
Quality	Inconsistent; high error rate	Consistent standards
Stress	Peaks during crunch periods	Even workload distribution
Stakeholder Trust	Fluctuates; surprises abound	Builds confidence with transparency
Scalability	Hard to replicate	Easy to teach and repeat

1.1 Psychological Evidence

Decision‑fatigue: Impromptu choices drain mental bandwidth, leading to poorer outcomes (Baumeister & Tierney, 2011).
Cognitive Load Theory: When you juggle too many unstructured ideas, working memory overload occurs, causing mistakes (Sweller, 2016).

1.2 Business Reality Check

A 2023 Harvard Business Review study found that teams that used a structured planning template completed projects 28 % faster and delivered 33 % higher quality than those that relied on ad‑hoc decision‑making.

Bottom line: improvisation might feel thrilling, but data shows planning wins the day—again and again.

2. Poe’s “Philosophy of Composition” – A 19th‑Century Blueprint

In his 1846 essay, Poe famously revealed the seven‑step process he followed to craft “The Raven.” The steps weren’t about stifling inspiration; they were about ensuring effect—the emotional impact he wanted readers to feel—was guaranteed.

Poe’s Step	Key Question	Modern Parallel
Determine the Effect	What feeling must the reader experience?	Define the goal or desired outcome.
Choose the Tone	Which mood suits the effect?	Set the project tone (formal, playful, urgent).
Select the Length	How far must the effect be carried?	Determine scope and timeline.
Draft a Plot Outline	What events will lead to the climax?	Build a roadmap (milestones & deliverables).
Choose the Setting	Where does the story occur?	Identify resources & environment (tools, teams).
Decide on Characters	Who drives the narrative?	Assign roles & responsibilities.
Write the First Draft	Execute the plan.	Implementation (execution phase).

Takeaway: Poe’s “plan first, write later” method mirrors today’s strategic planning frameworks (SMART goals, Gantt charts, agile sprints). The difference? He did it to guarantee an emotional impact; we do it to guarantee success.

3. Translating Poe into a Modern Planning System

Below is a step‑by‑step, SEO‑friendly template that adapts Poe’s seven principles to any project—blog post, product launch, personal goal, or even a novel.

3.1 Step 1 – Define the Desired Effect (Goal)

Write a one‑sentence purpose statement.
Example: “Increase organic traffic by 25 % in 90 days while boosting dwell time to 3 minutes per article.”
Embed target keywords (e.g., plan vs wing it, strategic planning, productivity tips) to align with SEO goals.

3.2 Step 2 – Choose the Tone (Project Voice)

Decide whether your deliverable will be authoritative, conversational, humorous, or educational.
Document the tone guide for writers, designers, and marketers.

3.3 Step 3 – Set the Length & Timeline (Scope)

Scope	Timeframe	KPIs
Blog series (3 posts)	4 weeks	Publish 3 posts, each > 1500 words, > 500 words of LSI keywords
Product feature rollout	6 months	2 beta releases, 5 % churn reduction

3.4 Step 4 – Outline the Plot (Roadmap)

Milestone	Deliverable	Owner	Due Date
Research & keyword audit	SEO brief	SEO Lead	Day 5
Content outline	H1‑H3 structure	Content Strategist	Day 10
First draft	Draft copy	Writer	Day 15
Review & edit	SEO + FE review	Editor	Day 20
Publish & promote	Live post + social blitz	Marketing	Day 25

3.5 Step 5 – Choose the Setting (Tools & Environment)

Content Management System: WordPress (SEO plugins: Yoast, Rank Math)
Collaboration: Google Docs + Slack channel #project‑plan‑X
Analytics: Google Analytics 4, Ahrefs, SEMrush

3.6 Step 6 – Assign the Characters (Roles)

Role	Responsibility	Key Skills
Project Manager	Timeline & risk	PM software (Asana)
SEO Specialist	Keyword research, on‑page	Ahrefs, LSI mapping
Writer	First draft, voice	Storytelling, research
Editor	Proofreading, SEO audit	Grammarly, Hemingway
Designer	Images, infographics	Canva, Adobe Suite
Promoter	Social & outreach	Hootsuite, email marketing

3.7 Step 7 – Execute (Write, Build, Launch)

Follow the roadmap, track progress daily, and adjust only if data (not impulse) calls for it.
Avoid “analysis paralysis.” The plan is a living document—make micro‑adjustments, not wholesale overhauls.

4. Real‑World Examples: When Planning Wins

4.1 Case Study 1 – A Startup’s Blog Revamp

Scenario	Wing‑It	Planned
Goal	Double organic traffic	40 % increase in 6 months
Approach	Publish random articles	Deploy Poe‑inspired 7‑step framework
Results	12 % traffic lift; high bounce	42 % traffic lift; bounce down 18 %

What changed? The startup adopted a goal‑first mindset, built keyword‑centric outlines, and assigned clear roles. The result? a strategic traffic boost.

4.2 Case Study 2 – Personal Productivity (The “30‑Day Writing Challenge”)

Method	Outcome
Wing‑it (write when “inspired”)	8 posts, 3 incomplete drafts
Plan (weekly outline + daily 30‑minute block)	30 completed posts, 5 % increase in average word count, higher consistency

5. Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them

Pitfall	Why It Happens	Prevention (Poe‑Style Fix)
Over‑planning → paralysis	Fear of missing something	Define a clear effect first; limit scope to what truly matters.
Ignoring data	Relying on gut feeling	Use metrics at every milestone; adjust based on evidence.
Vague roles	“Everyone does everything”	Assign characters with explicit responsibilities.
Skipping the “tone” step	Inconsistent brand voice	Write a tone deck and reference it during edits.
Forgetting the “setting”	Tool overload or mismatched tech	Pick 2‑3 core tools, master them, and integrate only when needed.

6. Quick-Start Checklist – From Idea to Execution

State the Effect – Write a one‑sentence purpose.
Select the Tone – Document voice guidelines.
Define Scope & Timeline – Set clear dates and KPIs.
Draft the Plot – Build a milestone roadmap.
Pick the Setting – Choose tools and environment.
Assign Characters – List roles and owners.
Execute & Review – Follow, measure, and iterate.

Print this checklist, pin it to your workspace, and refer to it before you ever consider “wing‑ing it.”

Conclusion – The Power of Planning, Poe‑Style

Whether you’re writing a blog post, launching a product, or tackling a personal goal, the difference between “wing‑it” and “plan‑first” is the same as the difference between chance and choice. Poe proved that a meticulously crafted plan can guarantee an intended emotional effect; modern research shows it guarantees better results, less stress, and higher ROI.

Action Step: Take your next big idea, apply the 7‑step Poe framework, and watch how a simple plan transforms chaos into a compelling, measurable success story.

FAQs

Q1. Does planning stifle creativity?
No. Planning provides a safe container for creativity. By defining the effect first, you free your imagination to explore how to achieve it, not whether it’s possible.

Q2. How detailed should my plan be?
Aim for just enough detail to prevent ambiguity—clear goals, milestones, roles, and tools. Over‑specifying every minute can lead to paralysis; keep it adaptable.

Q3. Can I use this framework for a one‑off task?
Absolutely. Even a single‑page report benefits from a mini‑plan: define purpose, outline headings, assign a deadline, and execute.

Q4. What tools complement Poe’s method?

Project Management: Asana, Trello, Notion
SEO: Ahrefs, SEMrush, Yoast
Collaboration: Google Workspace, Slack

Q5. How often should I revisit the plan?
At each milestone review (weekly for fast projects, monthly for long‑term initiatives). Adjust only when data suggests a course correction.

Top 5 sights on the road less travelled – Barcelona

Beyond the Gaudi Glow: 5 Barcelona Gems Off the Beaten Path

Barcelona. The name conjures images of soaring Sagrada Familia, vibrant Las Ramblas, and the sun-drenched beaches of Barceloneta. And while these iconic sights are undeniably spectacular, there’s a whole other layer to this Catalan capital waiting to be discovered by those willing to venture a little further. If you’re tired of jostling for elbow room and crave a taste of authentic Barcelona, this list of five things to do on the road less travelled is for you.

1. Get Lost (and Found) in Gràcia’s Bohemian Labyrinth

Step away from the Gothic Quarter’s throngs and find yourself in the charming neighbourhood of Gràcia. Once a separate town, Gràcia retains its distinct village feel with a network of narrow, winding streets, hidden plazas, and a wonderfully bohemian atmosphere. Spend an afternoon simply wandering. You’ll stumble upon independent boutiques, artisan workshops, and inviting cafes where locals gather. Don’t miss Plaça del Sol or Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia – perfect spots to sip a coffee and people-watch. In the evening, Gràcia truly comes alive with its array of tapas bars and intimate restaurants, offering a more local and affordable dining experience.

2. Ascend to the Untamed Beauty of Parc del Laberint d’Horta

While Park Güell gets all the glory for its whimsical mosaics, Barcelona’s oldest garden, Parc del Laberint d’Horta, offers a more serene and romantic escape. This neoclassical gem boasts a breathtaking cypress maze that’s a delight to navigate. Beyond the labyrinth, discover neoclassical sculptures, hidden grottoes, peaceful ponds, and stunning manicured gardens. It’s a tranquil oasis far removed from the city’s hustle, perfect for a leisurely stroll, a romantic picnic, or simply a moment of quiet contemplation. Pack a book and let the gentle murmur of fountains wash over you.

3. Uncover History and Art at the Sant Pau Recinte Modernista

Often overshadowed by Gaudí’s more famous works, the Sant Pau Recinte Modernista is a UNESCO World Heritage site that deserves its own spotlight. This former hospital complex, designed in the early 20th century by architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner, is a masterpiece of Catalan Modernisme. Wander through its beautifully preserved pavilions, adorned with intricate tilework, stained glass, and stunning sculptures. The sheer scale and artistic detail are astounding, offering a fascinating glimpse into the era’s architectural innovation and a poignant reminder of its philanthropic past. It’s a place that inspires awe and contemplation in equal measure.

4. Immerse Yourself in Local Flavours at Mercat de Sant Antoni

While La Boqueria is a vibrant sensory overload, the Mercat de Sant Antoni offers a more authentic and less tourist-centric market experience. Recently renovated, this grand market hall is a haven for local produce, fresh seafood, and regional delicacies. Come here for breakfast, sample some empanadas, pick up ingredients for a picnic, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere as locals go about their daily shopping. On Sundays, the surrounding streets transform into a bustling book and antique market, adding another layer of discovery to your visit.

5. Hike to the Iconic Bunkers del Carmel for Panoramic Vistas

For the most breathtaking, unobstructed views of Barcelona, skip the crowded viewpoints and head to the Bunkers del Carmel. These anti-aircraft fortifications from the Spanish Civil War offer a dramatic historical backdrop to arguably the best panoramic vistas of the city. While the climb can be a bit of a trek (or a short bus ride up), the reward is immense. Watch the sunset paint the sky in fiery hues, with the entire cityscape spread out before you like a miniature wonderland. It’s a favourite spot for locals to gather with friends, enjoy a picnic, and simply admire their beloved city from above.

Barcelona is a city that rewards curiosity. By venturing beyond the well-trodden paths, you’ll uncover its hidden heart, meet its friendly locals, and create memories that are truly your own. So, next time you find yourself in this Catalan gem, dare to stray from the guidebooks and embrace the magic of the road less travelled. You won’t be disappointed.

In a word: Angle

We all know this to be an intersection of two lines like a crossroad is at a 90-degree angle

But…

It’s an angle bracket that keeps the shelf up, hopefully with books on it.

Did you know that it was something someone did in order to get something?

She began to angle for an invitation to a party that she would not normally be invited to, or he has angled his answers to the prospective employer in a bid to be more likely to be selected for the position.

It can also refer to a position, or judgement, so that someone might say, try and see it from my angle, or another angle.

Or that it refers to fishing, and the fisherman or woman is known as an angler.

It can be a position from which something is viewed, or in crime parlance, the CSI people will work out the angle of the bullet’s entry do they can locate the position of the shooter.

Angle can refer to people of Germanic origin, such as an Anglo Saxon

And, here’s something even I didn’t know, in Astrology, it is each of the four cardinal points of a chart, from which the first, fourth, seventh, and tenth houses extend anticlockwise respectively.

‘Sunday in New York’ – A beta reader’s view

I’m not a fan of romance novels but …

There was something about this one that resonated with me.

This is a novel about a world generally ruled by perception, and how people perceive what they see, what they are told, and what they want to believe.

I’ve been guilty of it myself, as I’m sure we all have at one time or another.

For the main characters, Harry and Alison, other issues are driving their relationship.

For Alison, it is a loss of self-worth through losing her job and from losing her mother and, in a sense, her sister.

For Harry, it is the fact that he has a beautiful and desirable wife, his belief that she is the object of other men’s desires, and, in particular, his immediate superior’s.

Between observation, the less-than-honest motives of his friends, a lot of jumping to conclusions based on very little fact, and you have the basis of one very interesting story.

When it all comes to a head, Alison finds herself in a desperate situation, and she realises only the truth will save their marriage.

But is it all the truth?

What would we do in similar circumstances?

Rarely does a book have me so enthralled that I could not put it down until I knew the result. They might be considered two people who should have known better, but as is often the case, they had to get past what they both thought was the truth.

And the moral of this story, if it could be said there is one, is that nothing is ever what it seems.

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Available on Amazon here: amzn.to/2H7ALs8

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Top 5 sights on the road less travelled – Bern

Uncover Bern’s Hidden Gems: 5 Offbeat Attractions for the Curious Traveller

Bern, the charming capital of Switzerland, often finds itself overshadowed by its more famous counterparts in Zurich and Geneva. However, this picturesque city has plenty to offer for the discerning traveller willing to venture off the beaten path. In this post, we’ll explore five unique attractions in Bern that cater to those seeking a more immersive and authentic experience.

The Federations Garden (Bundesgarten)

Tucked away in the heart of the city, the Federations Garden is a serene oasis that few tourists know about. This beautifully landscaped park is home to over 100 flower beds, charming walking paths, and several monuments dedicated to Swiss history and politics. It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the tranquillity amidst bustling Bern.

Einstein Museum

While Albert Einstein’s connection to Bern is well-documented, the dedicated museum to his life and work is often overlooked by visitors. The Einstein Museum offers an engaging and educational experience, featuring interactive exhibits, original documents, and even a reconstructed version of the patent office where Einstein worked. It’s an excellent choice for science enthusiasts and those fascinated by the life of the iconic physicist.

Gurten Hill (Gurten)

For a panoramic view of Bern and its surroundings, head to Gurten Hill, a popular local spot. This hill offers several hiking trails, a playground for kids, and a beer garden with delicious Swiss cuisine. On summer evenings, the Gurten Festival takes place, featuring live music performances and stunning sunsets over the city. Don’t miss the chance to capture breathtaking photos of Bern from this unique vantage point.

Bern Minster’s Roof Tour (Dachrundgang)

Most tourists content themselves with admiring Bern Minster’s Gothic facade from the ground. However, for a truly memorable experience, take the guided roof tour, which provides unparalleled views of the city and its surroundings. The tour leads you through the steeple’s narrow catwalks, giving you a thrilling sense of being on top of the world. Book your spot in advance, as the tour’s limited capacity ensures an exclusive experience.

Tanner Row (Tuchlauben)

Step back in time and wander along Tanner Row, a charming cobblestone street lined with half-timbered houses dating back to the 12th century. This picturesque alley, once an important textile industry hub, now hosts a variety of boutique shops, cozy cafes, and traditional Swiss restaurants. The lively atmosphere and historic charm make Tanner Row an ideal spot for a leisurely afternoon stroll or a romantic dinner date.

In conclusion, Bern offers a wealth of hidden attractions and experiences for those willing to explore beyond the city’s main tourist trails. From serene gardens to thrilling rooftop tours, and from historic streets to science museums, there’s something for every interest and curiosity in this enchanting Swiss city. So why not take the road less travelled and uncover Bern’s unique charm for yourself?

An excerpt from “Echoes from the Past”

Available on Amazon Kindle here: https://amzn.to/2CYKxu4

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With my attention elsewhere, I walked into a man who was hurrying in the opposite direction. He was a big man with a scar running down the left side of his face from the eye socket to the mouth, and he was wearing a black shirt with a red tie.

That was all I remembered as my heart almost stopped.

He apologised as he stepped to one side, the same way I stepped, as I also muttered an apology.

I kept my eyes down. He was not the sort of man I wanted to recognise later in a lineup. I stepped to the other side, and so did he. It was one of those situations. Finally getting out of sync, he kept going in his direction, and I went towards the bus, which was now pulling away from the curb.

Getting my breath back, I just stood riveted to the spot watching it join the traffic. I looked back over my shoulder, but the man I’d run into had gone. I shrugged and looked at my watch. It would be a few minutes before the next bus arrived.

Wait, or walk? I could also go by subway, but it was a long walk to the station. What the hell, I needed the exercise.

At the first intersection, the ‘Walk’ sign had just flashed to ‘Don’t Walk’. I thought I’d save a few minutes by not waiting for the next green light. As I stepped onto the road, I heard the screeching of tyres.

A yellow car stopped inches from me.

It was a high-powered sports car, perhaps a Lamborghini. I knew what they looked like because Marcus Bartleby owned one, as did every other junior executive in the city with a rich father.

Everyone stopped to look at me, then the car. It was that sort of car. I could see the driver through the windscreen shaking his fist, and I could see he was yelling too, but I couldn’t hear him. I stepped back onto the sidewalk, and he drove on. The moment had passed, and everyone went back to their business.

My heart rate hadn’t come down from the last encounter. Now it was approaching cardiac arrest, so I took a few minutes and several sets of lights to regain composure.

At the next intersection, I waited for the green light, and then a few seconds more, just to be sure. I was no longer in a hurry.

Next, I heard what sounded like a gunshot. A few people looked around, worried expressions on their faces, but when it happened again, I saw it was an old car backfiring. I also saw another yellow car, much the same as the one before, stopped on the side of the road. I thought nothing of it, other than it was the second yellow car I’d seen.

At the next intersection, I realised I was subconsciously heading towards Harry’s new bar. It was somewhere on 6^th Avenue, so I continued walking in what I thought was the right direction.

I don’t know why I looked behind me at the next intersection, but I did. There was another yellow car on the side of the road, not far from me. It, too, looked the same as the original Lamborghini, and I was starting to think it was not a coincidence.

Moments after crossing the road, I heard the roar of a sports car engine and saw the yellow car accelerate past me. As it passed by, I saw there were two people in it, and the blurry image of the passenger was a large man with a red tie.

Now my imagination was playing tricks.

It could not be the same man. He was going in a different direction.

In the few minutes I’d been standing on the pavement, it had started to snow; early for this time of year, and marking the start of what could be a long, cold winter. I shuddered, and it was not necessarily because of the temperature.

I looked up and saw a neon light advertising a bar, coincidentally the one Harry had ‘found’ and, looking once in the direction of the departing yellow car, I decided to go in. I would have a few drinks and then leave through the back door if there were one.

Just in case.

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