In this rather different series of podcast Episodes (Series 11), I want to share with you a short novel I have written, set in Florence, Italy and inspired by its history and people and a recent working visit there. This series of podcasts is in effect, therefore, an audiobook in a change from my usual host/guest interview format.
This episode therefore introduces you to the fourth part of my novel, 'Forever in Florence', which is formed of two parallel storylines; with the stories being presented as alternate chapters, set in two different time periods, 500 years apart.
The odd numbered chapters; in this episode Chapters 19, 21, and 23; are set in the modern day and introduce you to its lead character, Isabella, who applies for a job in Florence's Academia Galleria so that she can be closer to her muse and idol Michelangelo and his works.
We follow Isabella's life and her loves, including her love of her home city, its food, its people, the beauty of Tuscany and her friendships, particularly with her best friend, Mia. In this and later episodes, you will also hear about her lifelong love for one particular songwriter, artist and poet who Isabella adores.
Chapter 19 Extract
"Isabella was addicted to Bob. His words, his music, his fine art and his poetry were the soundtrack, recitation and film score of her life. At every turn, he had been there for her, in sound and in virtual form. She had seen him live countless times; well, not really countless, she could remember every gig, every event, every opportunity to be near him. Now she was going to be with him; in the same room, in touching distance. In breathing distance."
In parallel with Isabella's life, the second storyline involves Francesca. This story is set in the High Renaissance and follows the life of Michelangelo as he struggles with his art, his stone craft, his relationships with the church and the city and with its controlling family, the Medici. Chapters 20, 22 and 24 in this episode tell Francesca's story.
Chapter 20 Extract
"The stress of caring for Michelangelo in his hideaway and the need to behave secretively at work and in her social affairs were beginning to weigh heavily on Francesca’s soul, mind and body. She needed to rest and went into her inner room away from the glare of the bright afternoon sun and lay on a soft cushioned couch against a cool wall that didn’t receive the sun’s attentions."
While based on some experiences described in the literature about Michelangelo's life, this is a story of fiction and is not meant to be wholly historically accurate, so please accept it as that; a story.
If you would like to receive a free copy of the draft of the story so far, perhaps to read as you listen to the audio version, please email me at johnscottlawton@hotmail.co.uk
Spotify also has the facility to follow a word by word transcript of the podcast, available via a tab next to the 'Description' tab on laptops or desktops, or at the bottom of the podcast description on mobiles and possibly tablets, headed, 'Episode Transcript'.
For more information on this podcast series, 'John Scott Lawton's English, you know', or to make any comments or to ask any questions relating to English Language learning, please contact me at johnscottlawton@hotmail.co.uk or leave a sound bite comment on Spotify.
Please visit my LinkedIn profile at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-scott-lawton/ to view Recommendations regarding my English Language teaching and Executive Coaching Services (towards the bottom of my profile page).
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