The 2am Rant: Children are all the same

They just live in different houses

…

It’s quite remarkable to discover that your children are not unique.

For years, I thought that we had spawned monsters that had quite likely come from another planet because the other children in the family seemed so different.

I didn’t realise that the parents had issued death threats if they so much as looked sideways while out.

It was where I suddenly realised that parents of children, if taken at their word, could be mass murderers, or at the very best, the worst kind of bullies.

The threats of violence that they used, in any other circumstances, would elicit a rather lengthy jail sentence.

I was guilty of it myself, and such threats had come to roll off the tongue so easily that you didn’t really know you were doing it.

If you don’t do this, I’ll kill you. There’s no thought to the significance of this statement or the consequences if you were to actually do it.

No wonder the children just look at you like you’re deranged.

Of course, there are fewer murderous ways of dealing with the problem, but the sad fact is they have probably driven you into a blind rage and just past into that zone where you really have no idea what you’re saying.

Been there too.

But the revelation that all the other parents are the same, that you see them threatening their children with death or worse.

Then, after they’ve grown up and moved on as all children do, they return on odd occasions for Sunday lunch, and there you begin to learn the stuff they did when they were younger that you never knew about

It seems a rite of passage for all children, and it’s odd to hear others discussing it, especially when you hear someone else referring to their children the same way you do.

Did they come from the same planet, too?

That’s when a friend told me the truth of the matter. All children are the same; they just live in different houses.

Ain’t that the truth!

What I learned about writing – Turning your real-life experiences into a story, and then with a great deal of luck, into a legendary film.

From Your Life to the Legendary Silver Screen: The Audacious Quest for Cinematic Immortality

We’ve all seen them – those incredible films that resonate deep within our souls, stories so potent and true, you just know they must have sprung from the messy, magnificent wellspring of real life. Think “Schindler’s List,” “127 Hours,” “The Pursuit of Happyness,” “Erin Brockovich.” These aren’t just great movies; they’re cultural touchstones, etched into our collective consciousness.

And who hasn’t, at some point, looked at a pivotal moment in their own life – a harrowing challenge, an unlikely triumph, a profound transformation – and thought, “Now that would make an amazing movie.”

The leap from your personal experience to a legendary film is, let’s be honest, vast. It’s akin to catching lightning in a bottle, then harnessing its power to illuminate the world. It requires a potent blend of authenticity, craft, perseverance, and indeed, a great deal of luck. But understanding the steps, the possible path, can turn a fleeting thought into a focused ambition.

Here’s how one might embark on this audacious, often miraculous, journey:

Step 1: Harvesting Your Truth – The Origin Story

Before you even think about a script, you must dive deep into your own experience. This isn’t just recounting events; it’s excavating the emotional core.

Identify the Core Conflict & Transformation: What was the central struggle? Who were you before, and who did you become after? Legendary stories thrive on profound change.
Pinpoint the Universal: While your experience is unique, what universal themes does it touch upon? Love, loss, injustice, courage, resilience, redemption? These are the hooks that connect your singular story to a global audience.
Embrace Authenticity, Not Just Facts: Don’t be afraid to explore the messy, uncomfortable, or unsung aspects. Truth, in its rawest form, is compelling.
The “Why Now?”: Why is this story important right now? What message does it carry for contemporary society?

This isn’t just memory; it’s meaningful introspection.

Step 2: Crafting the Narrative – From Raw Emotion to Gripping Story

Your life isn’t a film script; it’s a sprawling, unedited saga. The next crucial step is to shape that reality into a compelling narrative arc.

Outline the Narrative Beats: Think like a storyteller. What’s the inciting incident? The rising action? The climax? The falling action? The resolution? Even if it didn’t happen perfectly in real life, you need to find this structure.
Identify Your Protagonist (You, or an Alter-Ego): What are their desires, flaws, strengths? How do they drive the story forward?
Build Your Supporting Cast: Who are the key players in your life’s drama? What roles do they play in your journey?
Write It Down (Seriously, Write It): Start as a memoir, a detailed story, or even a treatment. Get the essence of the story, its characters, and its emotional journey down on paper in prose form. This is your foundation.

This is where “storytelling” begins its magic, often requiring you to condense, combine, or even slightly fictionalise elements to serve the larger truth.

Step 3: Translating to the Screen – The Art of the Screenplay

This is where the specialised craft truly begins. A screenplay is a blueprint, a visual language.

Learn Screenwriting Fundamentals: Read screenplays of films you admire. Understand structure (three-act, sequences), formatting, dialogue, and “show, don’t tell.”
Visualise Everything: How does your story look on screen? What are the key images, sounds, and moments that convey emotion without dialogue?
Find Your Voice: Even with technical rules, your unique perspective should shine through.
Consider Collaboration: Unless you are an experienced screenwriter, you might need to find a professional screenwriter who can adapt your story into a compelling script. This often means selling them the rights to your life story, or collaborating closely. Be prepared for changes – the film version won’t be a literal transcription of your life.

This stage transforms your story from a personal account into a potential cinematic experience.

Step 4: The Industry Gauntlet – Pitching, Persistence, and People

Even a brilliant script needs to find its way into the right hands. This is where the “luck” factor amplifies, but you can certainly increase your odds.

Seek Feedback & Refine: Share your script with trusted readers, writers’ groups, or professional consultants. Be open to critique and revise, revise, revise.
Build Your Network: Attend film festivals, writing conferences, and industry events. Connect with other emerging writers, producers, and directors.
Enter Contests & Fellowships: Prestigious screenwriting competitions (like The Nicholl Fellowships, Austin Film Festival) can open doors and get your script noticed by agents and producers.
Find Representation: A literary agent or manager can be crucial for getting your script read by studios and production companies. This often requires a strong script and some initial buzz.
The Pitch: Be ready to articulate your story’s essence, its universal appeal, and its marketability in a concise, compelling way.

This phase is a marathon of networking, rejection, and the occasional glimmer of hope.

Step 5: The Alchemy of Production – From Script to Silver Screen

If your script catches fire, it enters the labyrinthine world of development and production.

Optioning & Development Deals: A production company or studio might “option” your script, buying the exclusive right to develop it for a period. This is where the project gets a producer, perhaps a director attached, and financing is sought.
Creative Evolution (and Compromise): Be prepared for your story to be shaped by many hands – directors, actors, studio executives. Your initial vision might evolve significantly. This is a collaborative art form.
Casting the Dream: The right cast can elevate a good story to greatness, bringing characters to life in unexpected ways.
Filming & Post-Production: The arduous process of shooting, editing, scoring, and visual effects comes next.

This is where your story truly transforms, gaining flesh, blood, and a voice beyond your own.

Step 6: The Spark of Legend – Beyond Your Control

Achieving “legendary” status is the ultimate, and most unpredictable, outcome.

Critical Acclaim & Audience Resonance: A film needs to connect deeply with both critics and audiences, earning rave reviews and robust box office (though not always).
Cultural Impact: Does the film spark conversations? Does it influence other art? Does it stand the test of time, becoming a reference point for future generations?
The Right Moment: Sometimes, a story simply arrives at the perfect cultural moment, addressing unspoken needs or reflecting pressing issues. This is pure serendipity.
Awards & Recognition: While not the sole arbiter of “legendary,” major awards (Oscars, Golden Globes) certainly amplify a film’s reach and cemented its place in history.

This is the realm of magic, where your personal truth, skillfully told, transcends entertainment and becomes a lasting cultural artifact.

The path from your unique life experience to a legendary film is steep, winding, and littered with “almosts.” Many incredible stories remain untold, or stop short of the silver screen. But the very act of distilling your truth, crafting it into a compelling narrative, and daring to share it with the world is a profound journey in itself.

So, listen to the whisper of your own story. What profound truth is waiting to be unearthed? What cinematic masterpiece might be hiding within the chapters of your life? The first step, always, is simply to begin.

365 Days of writing, 2026 – 153

Day 153 – Writing Exercise

…

I was lying in a hospital bed staring at the ceiling, after being told that morning that a few seconds either way of me getting to the hospital could have been a matter of life and death.

No visitors for two days, and a very laborious interview with the police where I was practically browbeaten into making a confession, of stuff I hadn’t done, and through mistaken identity..

They were determined to make me the scapegoat. Now, looking at my brother who had made a special trip to see me, I was annoyed.

He should have been the one who was attacked.

And all because I borrowed his car?

It seemed to me he was oblivious, or pretending to be obvious, to the fact that it should have been him and not me, but something told me I was never going to get him to admit that he was the one they wanted to hurt, not me.

And this was not the first time it had happened.

“I think you know I was not the target,” I said, “and definitely not the one who committed any of the crimes I’m being accused of. The mere fact that we are almost alike is a very telling factor.”

We were not twins but the year apart in age did little to tell us apart, even from quite close. Cerise, his wife, had taken years before she could accurately tell us apart.

“You were running their distributional network,” he said. “That had nothing to do with me.”

“I did what I was told, believing that what I was doing was at the behest of the company, and I would believe that was the case if I were in my own car, not yours.”

He was clutching at straws. I had only told him a few days ago that the people I worked for were the McKenzies, people who were direct competitors. It hadn’t gone down well.

It was when I realised I was being set up. It might have explained what happened, but it came back to the car, and why he had asked me to take it from a downtown car park to his house.

“The bottom line is that they targeted the car and then hesitated before they tried to beat me to death. I was not who they were looking for.”

He shrugged. “Unless the police catch them, we’ll never know for sure. I’ll get some people to investigate and arrange for some protection. You’ll survive.”

I almost laughed at that. I’ll survive. Not if they came after me again.

“Thanks for nothing.”

Another minute, and he left. I was surprised he’d stayed as long as he had. It reflected the disdain he held for me and my choices when, a dozen years back, I refused to join the family firm.

Perhaps it was the people who turned up at all hours of the night and say, people who were not the sort of customers general merchants dealt with, not out of a shed at the back of the house, or an old factory turned into a warehouse.

My father was consolidating his criminal empire. I discovered that when he was shot at the warehouse and died in the hospital three days later. The shooter was never identified, despite the description I’d given to the police. My brother refused to back me up.

He had no doubt done a deal not to shop them in return for them leaving us alone. It was never going to hold. But I left the business the day after my father died and got a legitimate job.

Or so I thought.

I guess that criminals and the kids of criminals never quite escape the stigma. I got what I thought was a legitimate job, only to discover it was a rival organisation trying to muscle its way into my brother’s territory.

He didn’t know, not exactly, and I didn’t know until recently, and if there was a silver lining, this bashing had given me the perfect excuse to walk away.

That being the case, I had no job, I was nearly dead, and I had nowhere to go. I was not going to join the family firm. Robert could have it all to himself. If anything, I wanted revenge and to make the McKenzies pay. If they were the attackers.

…

The room was empty and quiet. The TV was on mute, running some game show that dealt with words and phrases. It seemed pointless.

It was when Detective Chief Inspector Ramsen came in and closed the door behind her. Years ago, when she was a Detective Sergeant, she had been the one to tell me the organisation that was behind my father’s death, just not who did it.

Perhaps she knew I would kill them if I found out. The fact that I was the son of an alleged murderer did little to assuage her opinion.

She sat in the chair next to the bed.

“I hear your brother came to visit.”

She never said hello, nor asked how I felt. Just sent the interrogators.

“He was very sympathetic.”

“Sarcasm doesn’t become you.”

“Nor does fake sympathy from a heartless bitch.”

Her expression hardened. “Someone got out of bed on the wrong side this morning.”

She frowned. I had called her worse. She liked the idea that people thought she was as hard as any man in her station house.

“I wasn’t the target, and I am not part of my brother’s organisation. He won’t admit it, but it was him they were after.”

“Perhaps, but you were working for the McKenzies. They might have assumed you were a spy. That could explain this attack.”

“I didn’t know that until last week. You might want to tell that interrogation team that I was in his car. Whoever sent the thugs made a mistake.”

She shook her head. “They would have been watching you. The car is irrelevant.”

“So, it’s the old adage, dead men tell no lies, or the truth. I’m very lucky to be here.”

“Are you going back to the McKenzie’s?”

“No. If old man McKenzie was the one who sent in the thug squad, simply because he doubted my loyalty, then what’s the point?”

“So, that means you’re in no man’s land. Perhaps with no allegiance to anyone, you could help us.”

“I’m not going back.”

“You could end up in jail.”

“Good. I’ll take my chances.”

“They’d be slim to none.”

“Better than going back into a nest of vipers. Thanks, but no thanks.”

“Suit yourself.”

…

When everything goes wrong, you find out just who your friends are.

I didn’t have many, and those I thought I had were more acquaintances than friends. We spoke, we had coffee, sometimes a drink after work, but that was it.

One thing I knew better than most was to never discuss business or your job in a workplace that thrived on secrecy, real or imaginary.

After all, when I first started, there were constant reminders not to discuss anything that happened with anyone inside and especially outside the company.

Now I knew why.

But, here’s the thing. I didn’t talk to anyone when I discovered the true nature of the business. I was simply shocked at the discoveries I made, but I kept them to myself. That’s why it was impossible to believe they sent people after me.

It was also odd that they hadn’t sent someone to see me yet, though it was plausible they didn’t know. The fact I hadn’t turned up for work, or called in as unavailable of course, would set off alarm bells, and the last person who did that caused havoc.

Except if I knew the Chief Inspector, she would have turned up on their doorstep first thing for her version of a short chat, so the odds were they were still trying to figure out what to do.

Old Man McKenzie, one of the four Mackenzies in management, was by far the nastiest of the group. I rumbled the fact that the legitimate business was acting as a front, that a well-trained group that kept the separation, and one of the four slipped once. A step so slight had I blinked I would have missed it

Though it could be said that being brought up in a crime family should have made me very aware of what was really going on, it didn’t. I was kept at arm’s length at home for a long time, and only introduced gradually once I was old enough.

But what I saw, I didn’t like.

When my father was murdered because of warring families that had once worked together in harmony, I left home and left the business, not that I had spent much time working for it.

What happened after that was a matter of reflection, and disappointment. I had been naive if I ever thought I could escape. Perhaps had I moved to the other side of the country, or overseas, maybe, but I didn’t go far, just across town.

I went to an employment agency, filled out all the forms and was surprised when they found me a job, not far from where I was living at the time.

The people were friendly but not too friendly. I was given on-the-job training, couriers work delivering parcels. I thought it was like working for FedEx. Over time, I rose to be a distribution manager, and then was in charge of a whole division.

And like I said, I would have been none the wiser if one of the drivers hadn’t made a fundamental error, delivering a parcel to the wrong address. A report had been left on my desk, in my absence. I came back, looked at it, checked the delivery against the orders and shipping dockets, noticing there were products on the delivery dockets not on the order. Then I realised it was not my distribution centre but one of the other three; they were just dovetailing their deliveries in my vans.

A report not for me to action, I put it back where I found it, and went out to lunch, and when I came back, it was gone. Later that night, I checked the orders and delivery dockets for the day, and at least forty of the customers got the same product. The product? Sugar cubes.

Then I checked the customers and found they were on a secondary distribution list, with about four or five hundred others. Names, not businesses. Runs every two weeks. A bit more digging, quietly, I found what the product was.

None of my business.

Of course, even that wouldn’t have mattered, had it not been the one person I would never have believed to have any criminal intent.

…

I must have drifted off into an uneasy sleep, something I thought would be impossible given the number and off times the nurses came to check what they called ‘vitals’.

Being annoyed so many times must raise anyone’s blood pressure. I know mine was up.

When I woke, it was not a nurse, but someone dropping into the visitor chair. Someone who wore a fragrant scent.

I opened my eyes. And blinked.

Scarlet McKenzie.

Most of the people in that company were scared of her. She had a temper and could make a grown man wither before her.

I spent most of my time avoiding her.

“Chris.”

“Scarlet.” I decided to use her first name, which was a risk. It didn’t matter; I wasn’t going back.

She scowled, but let it pass.

“You’re not at work.”

Was it a statement or was it something else?

“For obvious reasons.”

“What happened?”

“I thought that was obvious, too. Are you here to finish the job?”

She looked surprised. “What job? You think I had something to do with it?”

It was hard to tell whether she was utterly shocked or a darned good actress.

“I was attacked in my brother’s car by a McKenzie hit team.”

“And your brother…” A strange look came over her face. “.. is Callum Waterson.”

“I used to be Christopher Waterson. I left home after your people killed my father. When I joined the firm, it wasn’t owned by the McKenzies, that came later. I knew who you were; I simply expected you would continue to keep a legitimate company. I thought you were the straight man running it.”

“I am. And it is legitimate. I made it very clear I wanted nothing to do with their business.”

“You just supplement the drivers deliveries. It’s brilliant by the way.”

“I’m not in charge of that side of things, and I wasn’t impressed when I discovered what they were doing.”

“You didn’t deny setting the dogs on my brother.”

“That wasn’t me, and believe me, if I had a seat at the table at would not have happened. But then, if I put two and two together, I would bet on the fact that it was Bennie making a move on the leadership. My father’s retiring, and stupidly made it a contest between Bennie and Reggie. Only Reggie could come up with a hair-brained scheme like trying to assassinate your brother.”

She shook her head. “And only Reggie could get it so spectacularly wrong. I’m sorry.”

In that moment, I think I could see the dilemma I had in her expression, that spot between the proverbial rock and a hard place. And dare I say it, I felt sorry for her.

“If it’s any consolation, I know how you feel.”

She gave me a strange look, one that I couldn’t interpret.

“Are you coming back?”

“No. It would be rather awkward facing up to the people who ordered a hit on your brother, made a mistake and tried to kill me instead. I don’t really care what went on there. I’m done with it. When I get out of this place, I’m disappearing for good.”

“Where?”

“It wouldn’t be an ambush if I told you.”

“And if I came with you?”

“We’d disappear together. But I would get your hopes up thinking it would be the life you’re accustomed to.”

“You’d be surprised to learn what I could become accustomed to. Make plans for two, and I’ll call you. I’ll sort out your absence at work.”

She smiled, more of a grimace than amusement, then left. I wondered for a moment how a girl with an outfit worth more than my car was going to disappear without leaving a trail of cash payments or credit card records in her wake.

Never going to happen.

…

Nevertheless, as the weeks passed and the physios got me back on my feet, albeit awkwardly at first, when I was discharged from the hospital, I could walk again, after a fashion.

My brother had visited me once to tell me that he knew who had attacked me, and realised it was him they were after.

He was surprised to learn anyone cared that much. It surprised me that he was a leader of a crime family, because it usually meant he had to be ruthless.

What I didn’t know was that he had been transitioning the crime proceeds to funding legitimate businesses, and that was making more than the crime was with less risks

And cleaning up the vulnerable youths by taking them off the streets and giving them something to do. Perhaps he was a target because he was reducing the McKenzie’s customer pool.

I asked him what he was going to do, and he said nothing. What would be the point? He did say that he had passed on the message that if anything happened to me, there would be repercussions. As for Reggie, he intimated that he wasn’t the smartest one in that family and would never take over from his father.

I went home, such as it was, and spent a few days staring at the walls. I’d told Callam that I was going away, overseas on a slow boat, and probably wouldn’t be coming back.

It didn’t seem to bother him. I was always what he called a lost cause.

I found the slow boat, what might have been called in days gone by a tramp steamer, but in reality a cargo ship with a few passenger cabins. It was heading to Florida, as good a place as any to start an odyssey.

What I wanted, rather than needed, fitted into a small battered suitcase. Then I sent a cryptic message to Scarlett’s cell phone, and decided if she didn’t call, I was going anyway. I had never quite believed she would just up and leave.

Her family probably wouldn’t let her.

I found my way to the ship, did the customary immigration checks and cleared to board the boat. I waited an hour, and she didn’t show. I was not surprised.

The steward gave me the tour of the ship’s facilities, which were first class, as to be expected considering how much the tickets cost, and then delivered me to the suite.

He opened the door, I went in, and he closed it behind me. I leaned against the door and took it in. It was a surprise even after seeing photos of it.

“You took your time.”

A female voice came from another room, and then she appeared.

Scarlet.

“You came?”

“Would I ask you to get me a ticket if I wasn’t coming?”

“I didn’t hear anything from you.”

“I didn’t want them to find out. They think I’m visiting an aunt up country. They’re never going to change. And I don’t want anything to do with their criminal activities.”

“And you don’t mind being with me?”

She smiled. “I’ve kept my eye on you. You get on with the job, you don’t try to big note yourself, you handle people with respect and care. I know you like me, because every now and then, I see you, calculating the odds of whether or not I would say yes to an invitation to coffee or lunch. I would have said yes, you know. I don’t bite. Well, maybe sometimes, but I believe your company will be exactly what I need.” She looked around. “I love the boat.” She held out her hand. “Come. I’ll show you the suite. Do you know how nice this was going to be?”

“I had photographs.”

“It’s better than that. And a balcony. Sea air, hazy afternoons, reading or just sleeping…”

“Or we’ll get tangled up in an Atlantic storm.”

“Hush, you’re denting the romantic feeling that’s running through me.”

I took her hand and felt a shiver go through her. It was most likely the aftereffect of the notion she had escaped. It would wear off once the reality set in, but perhaps I should try being in the moment too, as she gently pulled me in the direction of the bedroom.

There was only one bed.

“So. Sleeping arrangements,” she said. “I like the left-hand side, I do not like people who snore, and, well, you’ll find out soon enough. There’s enough room for four, so it’s not like we’ll run into each other.”

Her enthusiasm was infectious. I wondered how I could have contemplated doing this on my own. For years, I had denied myself the pleasure of company, given the family I had and the world I was in. I had given the idea of finding a nice girl and dating, but it only got as far as Scarlet. I had no idea how she would respond, so I didn’t bother.

And if I were truthful, given who she was and who I was, it would never have got to first base. It never occurred to me that she was in exactly the same boat as i was.

Perhaps I should just let it flow and see where it takes us.

I relaxed. “Have you been put on the balcony?”

“Of course. Come. You’re going to love it.”

…

Top 5 sights on the road less travelled – Venice

The Unbeaten Path: 5 Hidden Treasures in Venice (That Aren’t St. Mark’s)

Venice. The name alone conjures images of shimmering canals, graceful gondolas, and the architectural masterpiece that is the Doge’s Palace. It is, undeniably, one of the most beautiful cities on earth.

But let’s be honest: the magic can quickly evaporate when you’re battling a thousand other tourists just to get a photo of the Rialto Bridge.

The true, deep magic of Venice—the one that smells of salt-laced air and centuries of history—isn’t found on the main tourist arteries. It’s found in the quiet, echoing calle (streets) and the forgotten, sun-drenched squares of the districts that rarely make the postcard racks.

If you’re ready to trade the packed piazza for unique local discoveries, ditch the map of the standard tourist loop. Here are five essential, off-the-beaten-path things to do in Venice that will give you a taste of the city’s authentic heart.

1. Swap Grand Palaces for the Cemetery Island: Isola di San Michele

While most visitors focus on Murano or Burano, the island of San Michele offers a profound and beautiful experience few tourists seek out. This is the official cemetery island of Venice, and it offers a silence and solitude that is impossible to find on the main islands.

A short vaporetto ride (Line 4.1 or 4.2) across the lagoon transports you to a walled sanctuary where cypress trees stand sentinel over generations of Venetians, including famous residents like Igor Stravinsky and Ezra Pound.

Why it’s worth the detour: The stunning, stark beauty of the Renaissance Chiesa di San Michele in Isola, combined with the meticulously maintained gardens and marble tombs, offers a reflective pause in your itinerary. It truly feels like stepping into a different world—one without shops, crowds, or noise. It’s a poignant reminder of the ebb and flow of Venetian life.

2. Embrace the Bacaro Trail in Dorsoduro

If you want to eat and drink like a Venetian, you must embrace the bacaro culture. A bacaro is a traditional, often hole-in-the-wall Venetian bar specializing in cicchetti (small, tapas-style snacks) and ombra (a small glass of local wine).

While you can find bacari near the main spots, the Dorsoduro district, particularly near Ca’ Foscari University, is where the scene is truly vibrant and local. This area is filled with students and residents, not tour groups.

How to do it right: Forget sitting down for a lengthy, expensive dinner. Between 5 PM and 7 PM, join the locals and hop between a few chosen spots, ordering a couple of cicchetti (perhaps salted cod, polpetta, or marinated artichokes) and an ombra at each.

Try: Cantinone Già Schiavi (famous for its wine selection) or Al Squero (offering fantastic views across the canal to the boatyard where gondolas are repaired).

3. Seek Out the Hidden Staircase: Scala Contarini del Bovolo

In a city known for its bridges and canals, architecture often takes a supporting role. However, if you are drawn to hidden architectural gems, the Scala Contarini del Bovolo is a must-see.

Tucked away in a tiny, almost impossible-to-find courtyard near the Rialto, the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo features an extraordinary exterior spiral staircase. Known as the “staircase of the snail” (bovolo), this Renaissance masterpiece combines Gothic and Byzantine elements, curling up five stories to an open loggia.

The payoff: Climbing the staircase is an adventure in itself, but the true reward is the panoramic view from the top. You get a unique, intimate perspective of Venice’s terracotta rooftops and bell towers without the claustrophobic crowds of St. Mark’s Campanile. Finding it is half the fun—put the address into your phone and be prepared to wander down several dead-end alleys.

4. Explore the Authentic Heart of Cannaregio and the Ghetto

To experience genuine Venetian daily life—the sight of laundry dangling over canals, residents chatting in dialect, and non-chain grocery stores—head north to the Cannaregio district.

This area, which stretches toward the Mestre train station, is largely residential and offers excellent, affordable dining options. More importantly, it is home to the Ghetto Nuovo, the world’s first Jewish Ghetto, established in 1516.

Why it’s special: The Ghetto Nuovo is a place of powerful history and resilient culture. Due to space constraints imposed by the Republic, the buildings here are some of the tallest in Venice, stacked upon medieval foundations. Walk through the quiet central square, observe the five historic synagogues (many offer guided tours), and soak up the unique atmosphere. It’s a perfect way to step back into a complex, vital layer of Venetian history often overlooked by visitors rushing to the main sites.

5. Capture the Pastel Hues of Burano (But Go Early)

Yes, Burano is often listed on the main island tours, but most visitors arrive mid-day when the ferry lines are long, and the narrow canals are choked with people attempting the perfect photograph. To truly experience the magic of the famous rainbow-colored island, you must commit to the early start.

The secret timing: Take one of the first vaporetti out to Burano (via Murano and Torcello). Arriving just as the golden morning light hits the facades allows you to wander the lanes in near solitude. The local fishermen and lace makers are just beginning their day, and the lack of crowds amplifies the whimsical, fairy-tale quality of the architecture.

Tip: Since the island is famous for lacemaking, skip the mass-produced trinkets and seek out a small workshop where you can see the intricate craft being actively practiced.

Don’t Just Visit Venice—Live It

To travel the road less travelled in Venice isn’t about ticking off lesser-known sights; it’s about slow travel. It’s about getting lost, turning down the alley that looks too narrow, and replacing the tourist map with genuine curiosity.

When you allow yourself to wander away from the golden routes, you stop being a hurried observer and start becoming a temporary resident. The Venice you discover in these quiet pockets is richer, deeper, and far more rewarding.

In a word: Anonymous

Which is how I feel sometimes.

It can be a paradox in that an ordinary man may strive to be recognised, that is, to rise above his inherent anonymity simply because he feels he has something more to offer mankind than just making up the numbers.

But sadly, that desire will often be met with staunch resistance, not because there’s an active campaign against him, it’s just the way of the world.

The fact is, most of us will always be anonymous to the rest of the world, but in being so in that respect it’s that anonymity we can live with. However, it’s far more significant if we become anonymous to those around us. And, sadly, it can happen.

It’s when we take someone for granted.

At the other end of the scale, there is the celebrity, who has finally found fame, discovers that fame is not all it’s cracked up to be. You find that meteoric rise from obscurity an adrenaline rush, and you’re no longer anonymous.

But all that changes when you are constantly bailed up in the street by well-meaning but annoying fans when you are being chased by the paparazzi and magazine reporters who thrive not on the fact that you are famous but watching and waiting for you to stumble.

Some often forget that there’s always a camera on them, or there’s a reporter lurking in the shadows, looking for the next scoop, capturing that awkward inexplicable moment when the celebrity is seen with someone who’s not their spouse, or worse, if it could be that, they get drunk and make a fool of themselves.

Do I really want to lose that anonymity that I have?

Not really. It seems to me like it might be the lesser of two evils.

Top 5 sights on the road less travelled – Rome

Escape the Crowds: Rome’s Top 5 Unsung Tourist Gems

Rome. Just the name conjures images of the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, and endless lines of eager tourists. While these iconic sights are essential, the Eternal City offers so much more—especially for those willing to venture slightly off the beaten path.

If you’re looking to soak up Rome’s history, beauty, and distinctive character without battling the massive crowds, we’ve curated a list of the top five visitor attractions that are surprisingly peaceful and utterly captivating.

Here are Rome’s best-kept secrets, proving you don’t need a huge crowd to have a monumental experience.

1. The Centrale Montemartini Museum (Museo della Centrale Montemartini)

Why Visit: This museum offers one of the most stunning juxtapositions in all of Rome: pristine classical statues set against the backdrop of a decommissioned early 20th-century thermoelectric power plant.

The Distinctive Feature: Imagine towering, oily industrial machinery—boilers, engines, and generators—acting as the unlikely stage for brilliant white marble statues of gods and emperors. Originally intended as temporary storage for overflow artifacts from the Capitoline Museums, the exhibit became permanent and breathtaking. It’s an unforgettable blend of industrial archaeology and ancient art, offering a quiet, contemplative space far from the bustling Capitoline Hill.

Crowd Level: Extremely low. Often, you’ll feel like you have entire halls to yourself.

2. The Baths of Caracalla (Terme di Caracalla)

Why Visit: Everyone knows the Roman Forum, but fewer people explore the vast, evocative ruins of the ancient Roman baths. The Baths of Caracalla were a massive public complex, more like a modern leisure center than just a place to wash, accommodating thousands of Romans daily.

The Distinctive Feature: Unlike the Forum, where structures are densely packed, Caracalla’s ruins are sprawling, allowing you to truly appreciate the sheer scale of Imperial Roman architecture. The remaining walls and arches soar towards the sky, hinting at the dome-covered halls and mosaic-tiled floors that once existed. Visiting here is an atmospheric experience, particularly beautiful at sunset, offering a powerful sense of quiet grandeur.

Crowd Level: Low to moderate. While tour buses occasionally stop, the immense size of the site easily disperses visitors.

3. The Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo al Celio

Why Visit: If you’re tired of the gilded splendor and tourist throngs of the major papal basilicas, head to Rome’s oldest circular church. Dedicated to Saint Stephen, this basilica is an architectural curiosity unlike any other in the city.

The Distinctive Feature: Built in the 5th century, the church utilizes a striking circular plan with concentric rings of columns. Inside, the walls are lined with graphic frescoes depicting the horrific martyrdoms of early Christian saints. While certainly macabre, these 16th-century paintings are historically fascinating—a unique and somber art gallery within a classical structure. Its isolated location on the quiet Celian Hill ensures a serene, thought-provoking visit.

Crowd Level: Very low. You are likely to find peace and solitude here.

4. The Quartiere Coppedè

Why Visit: Leave the Roman ruins behind for a moment and step into a fantastical, fairytale neighborhood that feels lifted straight out of a storybook.

The Distinctive Feature: Though technically a small urban area within the larger Trieste district, Quartiere Coppedè is an architectural masterpiece designed by Gino Coppedè in the early 20th century. Walk through the stunning archway (the Arco di Coppedè) and discover whimsical palaces, fountains (like the famous Fountain of the Frogs), and facades adorned with sculptures of nymphs, animals, and mythical creatures. It’s a hidden gem of Art Nouveau and Baroque fusion—a completely unexpected visual delight perfect for photography and quiet exploration.

Crowd Level: Minimal. This is a residential area primarily visited by local residents and architecture enthusiasts.

5. The Protestant Cemetery (Cimitero Acattolico)

Why Visit: Tucked away beside the Pyramid of Cestius, this cemetery is one of the most beautiful and tranquil spots in Rome. It is the final resting place for non-Catholics, including famous figures like the poets John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley.

The Distinctive Feature: Far more than just a graveyard, this site is a lush, perfectly manicured garden park often referred to as “the most beautiful corner of Rome.” Cypress trees cast shadows over elaborate, touching monuments and tombstones written in dozens of languages. It offers a poignant, introspective break from the city noise, blending art, history, and nature in a profoundly moving way. The air of quiet contemplation is palpable.

Crowd Level: Low, though the small entrance fee helps maintain its peaceful atmosphere.

Rome’s true magic isn’t just in its famous landmarks, but in the countless layers of history waiting to be quietly discovered. By seeking out these distinctive, less-trafficked attractions, you can enjoy a richer, more personal experience of the Eternal City. Happy exploring!

‘What Sets Us Apart’ – A beta reader’s view

There’s something to be said for a story that starts like a James Bond movie, throwing you straight in the deep end, a perfect way of getting to know the main character, David, or is that Alistair?

A retired spy, well, not so much a spy as a retired errand boy, David’s rather wry description of his talents, and a woman that most men would give their left arm for, not exactly the ideal couple, but there is a spark in a meeting that may or may not have been a setup.

But as the story progressed, the question I kept asking myself was why he’d bother.

And, page after unrelenting page, you find out.

Susan is exactly the sort of woman to pique his interest. Then, inexplicably, she disappears. That might have been the end of it, but Prendergast, that shadowy enigma, David’s ex-boss who loves playing games with real people, gives him an ultimatum: find her or come back to work.

Nothing like an offer that’s a double-edged sword!

A dragon for a mother, a sister he didn’t know about, Susan’s BFF who is not what she seems or a friend indeed, and Susan’s father, who, up till David meets her, couldn’t be less interested, his nemesis proves to be the impossible dream, and he’s always just that one step behind.

When the rollercoaster finally came to a halt, and I could start breathing again, it was an ending that was completely unexpected.

I’ve been told there’s a sequel in the works.

Bring it on!

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The book can be purchased here: http://amzn.to/2Eryfth

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