My tattoo is less literary than typographical. I am a writer by trade (and passion). I got the tattoo so that while I’m writing (typing), I can see it and have a constant reminder of not only how I want to live my life, but of the amazement I want my words to inspire in others.
- K. from Atlanta
First tattoo, on my left forearm. I’ve always loved tree of life imagery, the quote is from Deuteronemy 33
I was at a loss suddenly; but conscious all the while of how Armand listened: that he listened in the way that we dream of others listening, his face seeming to reflect on every thing said. He did not start forward to seize on my slightest pause, to assert an understanding of something before the thought was finished, or to argue with a swift, irresistible impulse-the things which often make dialogue impossible.
Anne Rice, Interview with the Vampire
I started reading Anne Rice in high school, and this was the first time I can remember a quote or a notion standing out to me in any book. The art of listening is something I treasure not only in myself, but in those around me, and to listen in this way, like Armand does, is something I practice every time I speak with someone. Done by Mikey Wheeler of Mercy Seat Tattoo in Kansas City.
My literary tattoo was inspired by Buddy Wakefield’s poem, Horsehead. Specifically the lines:
”..and he wouldn’t turn back, no matter how much slack was typed into his neck…”
My little penguin, dear to me because of the Penguin publishers who have provided me with so many of my favourite books.
| — | Mikhail Bakunin (via evatalmadge) |
A reminder of the code I have strived to follow in the darkest times, first told me by one of my dearest teachers, and now a permanent note-to-self, in my own handwriting.
From Shakespeare’s Love’s Labour’s Lost, and also mentioned in Jim Harrison’s essay, Why I Write, or Not: “We paint our lives as we write our work, and I’m reminded of Whitman’s statement that a poet must “move wild laughter in the throat of death.”
Like the blog? Buy the book! The Word Made Flesh makes an awesome gift, and it’s only ten bucks on Amazon!
| — | Jane Austen (via butterflies-in-nets) |
“tattoos the words ‘forgive me’…down the inside of his arm so that when he looks at his wrist he will remember
not to hate himself so much.” - Buddy Wakefield ~ Human The Death Dance
My handwriting. The butterfly is a symbol of self injury recovery. This tattoo and poem mean so much more to me than I could ever say
