A Stage for Dreamy Pondering by Polly Samson: An Exploration of Ios and the Dreamers Who Inhabited It.
Vibe: Hey there, Reader! Let me spin you a yarn about Hydra, not the mythical beast, but the enchanting island that served as the backdrop for a fascinating chapter in the lives of two extraordinary writers, Charmian Clift and her husband, George Johnston. Back in 2014, I was lounging on this breathtaking island with my family, blissfully unaware that it would become a muse for my next novel.
My dear friend had raved about the crystal-clear waters surrounding Hydra, and we were seeking a laid-back vacation after the creative whirlwind that was my novel, The Kindness. The island's charm lay in its lack of commercialism, its charming old souls, and the absence of wheels for transportation - making everything an adventure!
On our last day, I stumbled upon an aged copy of Charmian Clift's captivating memoir, Peel Me a Lotus, detailing her life on the very island I was presently lounging on. I was overwhelmed by a voice that resonated with me deeply, and since then, it's been an unforgettable journey unlocking the labyrinth of literary gems that became A Theatre for Dreamers.
Tracing these stories led me to an extensive archive of images captured in 1960, featuring Charmian Cliff and others in the bohemian community she and her husband cultivated. The extensive research also led me to a treasure trove of published and unpublished work from fellow writers. The thrill of visiting Hydra to write parts of my novel was an added perk!
Adding to the cherry on top, Muswell Press is bringing Peel Me a Lotus back into print in a beautiful new edition, and I've been honored with the task of writing the introduction. Grab your copy from our website!
Fun facts - Charmian Clift was not only an essayist and Australia's first female newspaper columnist, but she was also married to George Johnston, a well-known author. Together, they were integral figures in the expatriate community on Hydra in the mid-20th century, with their home serving as a hub for social gatherings and discussions with literary figures and other creatives. Their presence on the island significantly contributed to Hydra's reputation as a haven for artists seeking inspiration.
Embarking on a literary odyssey, I found myself immersed in the lives of Charmian Clift and George Johnston, not just through their written works, but also their lifestyle on Hydra. This quest led me to a fun fact: Charmian was Australia's first female newspaper columnist and a voracious reader, making her book collection an intriguing part of my entertainment during my stay on the island.
