A blurry day is Nature’s way of reminding us that not everything is as it may first appear to be. Hidden beneath the layers of multi-coloured overhead complications and under the rampant growth of foliage on the ground, and even within the mottled blotches upon the surface, there is a distinction which survives the ambiguity. Clarity is a gradual process, combining not only lucidity but also simplicity. It is a matter of, first, removing oneself sufficiently from the topic to trim the definition to a fully perceptible level; second, to engage in a summary of the entirety to look for flaws and to appreciate shades; and, third, to summarize the totality to afford a synopsis by which to assess the view. Much of this happens unknowingly within our casual regard and mindfulness of what transpires around us. Just as the detail of our regard percolates the whole, so too we gradually penetrate the vision.

The idiom pathetic fallacy (“the attribution of human feelings and responses to inanimate things or animals, especially in art and literature”) is perhaps best described as do the French, “sophisme sentimental“, basically dewy-eyed sophistry or fallacious argument. In our endless search for meaning, precision and comprehensibility we attach fanciful expression to the exploration. A rainy day for example may reflect one’s inner mournfulness; or, likewise, a sunny day, one’s fervour. But a blurry day achieves a combination of them all, advancing a depth of feelings while affording ample room for speculation and inventiveness.

A blurry day is what today surrounds and stimulates our adventure up the Ottawa Valley. We shall be gone until New Year’s Eve – or, by another interpretation, until the New Year, the variety of which perception illustrates the moderate though meaningful views of the matter, each with its peculiarities and attributes, each with its differences of import and gusto.

As is my wont, I have projected today’s escapade to embrace not only the past (which by definition is limited to 30 seconds at best) but also the future (similarly congealed). The integrity of the matter derives not from its scope, rather from its acclaim. It so happens that my posture today is uncommonly buoyant and dangerously frivolous. To say we have undertaken a travel expedition is unquestionably a mockery. Yet we sustain even within such jest and lampoon a critical substance of elemental features to reflect at the very least poetic circumnavigation. Circling the globe is something I have long ago restricted to the perpetual sailing adventures of my erstwhile physician for whom I can never recall his immediate or intended recourse or racecourse. Yes, ours is a pathetic fallacy, an artistic expression of a compelling reality. Yet, dear Reader, do not be disinclined by the innuendo. This trip is very much a tolerable and inviting outing, the distilled features of which have inspired within us hope and anticipation, cause for figurative departure, expectation of rounding yet another corner. So – we move ahead – getting on board for departure, change of direction and difference of emphasis.