My Crowned Jewel

It’s very simple, really. I’m here on Prose because of @FJGraham (Flyn Graham). And it’s because of Flyn that I’ve rediscovered my own delight in being a writer over the past five and a half years.

Flyn is a remarkable wordsmith. His writing has an honesty, a rawness and a passion that is astonishing in a (relatively) young person, and I have no doubt that his talents will continue to grow. Flyn’s use of language, in his prose, is more taut and sparing than my own. The economy of words that he deploys, to great effect, is different from my own somewhat more verbose approach. One of the things he told me, and taught me, in a conversation a while ago is the importance of reading aloud one’s words. For Flyn, if something doesn’t quite flow, if it doesn’t quite feel right, then it needs to be cut. It’s a principle that he applies with forensic ruthlessness to his own work.

I’m reminded of the Koh-i-Noor diamond - one of the largest cut diamonds in the world, and part of the British Crown Jewels since 1849. It was placed on display at the Great Exhibition in 1851; but despite its size, its lustre failed to impress. Prince Albert, Queen Victoria’s consort, ordered it to be re-cut; and it was ultimately reduced in size - over the course of thirty-eight days - from 191 carets to 106. Such an enormous reduction in size was shocking to many at the time; yet the great loss in weight was necessary because of several serious flaws found in the diamond as it was being cut. Though much reduced in size, the Koh-i-Noor now shone brighter than ever, with a brilliance that continues to take the breath away of those who behold it.

Flyn’s writing is much like that. With each new work - and with each new edit - his stories shine with ever greater brilliance.

Flyn is part of a remarkable band of brothers here on Prose - with whom I am tremendously honoured to be associated. Younger brother Jax (@brothersgraham) is especially skilled in the crafting of sonnets. Hunter (@hunter10G), meanwhile, is incredibly industrious; and his lighthearted tales of Monkey, and magical stories of the Robot Prince, can be enjoyed by young and old alike. Together, we’ve encouraged our dear friend Ethan (@ethangraham), who has written a number of delightful tales of his own. And in recent months, we’ve all enjoyed setting, or taking part in, a variety of Prose challenges.

Reading - and re-reading - the works of my Graham family affords me pleasure like none other. There are some very talented writers here on Prose, and I’m enjoying coming to know the works of many. But, for me, it is @FJGraham who continues to inspire me, forever, and always. And his friendship shines brighter for me than any diamond. He remains a jewel crowned in my heart.