“Scents Memory” posted in Olfactory Memoirs
February 21, 2016
I saw an announcement this week inviting submissions to a new journal focusing on scent-triggered memories. The journal, Olfactory Memoirs, is a project of the S
an Diego Foundation Creative Catalyst Fellowship Program and will culminate in a series of spoken word performances orchestrated to coincide with scent compositions made by artist Brian Goeltzenleuchter. I posted my short piece, “Scents Memory,” which talks about losing the ability to taste and smell as a result of progressive Parkinson’s Disease. (I mention, among others, the scent of lavender, the stink of gasoline, and the smell of bacon frying, which explains the photo above.)
Although my situation is, obviously, not funny, I tried to strike a wistful and somewhat ironic tone. Let me know whether or not I was successful after reading the piece here. And, while you’re at it, consider posting something about your own olfactory memories on the Write — Participate page.
James Brega: What I Write Instead of Nothing 
February 22, 2016 at 1:11 pm
Bravo! Wonderful images – my favorite is “a Mississippi of air.” And yes, wistful, ironic – makes me want to stop & smell the flowers ….
February 22, 2016 at 4:33 pm
Yes, I am the mate. Even though I know you can’t smell the fragrances and aromas lifting in our kitchen, I am grateful we can imagine them anew together. Makes me think differently. I loved your line “…Mexican marigolds in the garden, their foliage bruised by a tossing wind,…” Lots of poignant imagery and sharp observations to activate my olfactory memories. Really neat writing. Loved it!