November 15, 2013 11.08 am
This story is over 103 months old
Award-winning Lincoln author launches new book
Close Observations: Lincoln author David Zelder’s new book showcases short stories and poems about his life in Lincoln and beyond.
Lincoln author David Zelder celebrates the launch of his new book of poems and short stories 'Close Observations'. Photo: Emily Norton for The Lioncolnite
A Lincoln writer is preparing to launch a new book, filled with short stories and poems of his life in Lincoln and beyond.
David Zelder is best known for his 2011 novel, Yomping Outside. However his new book takes its inspiration from years enjoying the sites of Lincoln while sailing the River Witham, and trips further afield.
Close Observations, which releases this November, is a collection of work described as ‘semi-autobiographical’ by David Zelder.
“The stories catalogue distinct points throughout my childhood, my travels and life in Lincoln”, said David.
“We moved to the city five years ago and we think it’s a beautiful place with beautiful people.”
David Zelder with his new book Close Observations. Photo: Emily Norton for The LIncolnite
Among the short stories in the new publication, readers can enjoy tales with notorious Lincoln backdrops.
The poem Screams over the Ribbon of Light paints a colourful picture of scenes of Lincoln’s River Witham. Zelder writes of “peace, tranquility” and the “idyll that is Lincoln”.
Zelder captures characters close to many. The Red Arrows make an appearance, landscapes are recreated with a clear fondness, and wildlife poses as a vibrant motif throughout.
“My wife and I get out on the boat regularly. I find the more I write, the more I observe life with a keen eye. Take the beautiful Sea Eagle on the front cover, which I photographed in Norway – the bird came so close her wings actually brushed my face.
“Almost all of the works in this book come from real life situations. I am particularly proud of the poem Childish Art, which tells the true story of a picture I created on a train with condensation, using only a comb as my tool. It even got a round of applause.
“After publishing Yomping Outside in 2011 I had many requests for a follow-up. For me, including a novella about my characters’ final adventures brought a sense of closure.”
Before retiring, David Zelder worked as a CEO of a large PLC. After many years of research into self-publishing he has enjoyed writing, and won three awards for his short stories.
In addition, David offers professional speaking services to clients such as major writing groups.
“Any moderately intelligent person can write a book, but it takes a genius to sell one”, he says.
“It has been a challenging journey, I have learned my learned many lessons and met some ‘vanity publishers’ in the process.
“It’s great to be a part of Lincoln’s art scene. It makes my blood boil when people say there is nothing to do here. You have got to open your eyes, and that’s what Close Observations is all about.
Close Observations and Zelder’s earlier publication Yomping Outside can be purchased on his website.
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We are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage after a collision caused serious injuries to a 23-year-old man.
Just before 3.30pm yesterday (2 July), we received reports of a collision on Barholm Road in Tallington. It involved a grey BMW 335D estate, a blue BMW 116D and an orange KTM motorcycle.
The motorcycle rider, a 23-year-old man, sustained serious injuries during the collision and was taken to hospital.
If you witnessed the incident and are yet to get in touch with us, please do so. If you have any other information or dashcam footage available that may have captured the road along the A1175 at the time of the collision, get in touch.
By calling 101 quoting incident 282 of 2 July.
By emailing [email protected] quoting incident 282 of 2 July in the subject line.
If you wish to remain anonymous, you can report via the independent charity CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111 or online.
The 2022 Destination Lincolnshire Tourism Excellence Awards are open for applications, and Destination Lincolnshire giving you the rare chance to co-create your application with Nell Barrington, a tourism awards veteran, who has helped hundreds of businesses write winning applications over the last 15 years – including national VisitEngland winners.
The Tourism Awards Masterclass is taking place on Tuesday 12 July at 11am for one-hour online. Laura Freer, Head of Marketing at Destination Lincolnshire said: “This is a golden opportunity, after years of hard work and heartache, to get your business and team recognised and rewarded.
“A well written application is key to achieving a coveted place on this year’s shortlist, and I’d encourage all tourism and visitor economy businesses who are thinking of entering – whether they are seasoned at writing award applications or not – to join us for this exclusive masterclass.
“Nell Barrington has worked with us and VisitEngland on the founding application processes of these awards, and she is perfectly placed to assist in co-creating applications that you can be proud of. This is a great opportunity for business development too – whether you are shortlisted for an award or not – discovering how to effectively apply for awards and talk up your business adds another string to your bow.
“Booking is essential and places are limited to just 35 – so be quick! This year we’ve made our masterclass available to partners and also to those who we are yet to work with for free. Call it an added bonus, after two years away from the awards circuit.
The awards masterclass is focussed on the application process, and it will spell out what the judges are looking for. You’ll learn how to make your application stand out from the local competition, helping your chances of going through to the national VisitEngland Awards in 2023.”
There are fifteen categories open for nominations from visitors attraction, accommodation providers, hospitality businesses and many more.
The deadline for nominations is July 29, with online judging starting on July 30 and mystery shopping from August 13. Finalists will be announced on Monday, August 15.
The awards ceremony will be held at the Engine Shed on October 21, and will be hosted by Lincs FM presenter, John Marshall.
The event is organised by Stonebow Media, publishers of The Lincolnite, to celebrate the best businesses in Greater Lincolnshire, alongside headline sponsors Lincoln College and Destination Lincolnshire.
We would also like to thank our other sponsors Visit Lincolnshire, Heart of Lincs, Duncan and Toplis and LNER, insight6 and EV Camel.
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