Image from Pixabay Classic literature has stood the test of time, offering readers a window into different eras, societies, and human experiences. The timeless appeal of classic novels lies in their ability to convey profound messages and themes that resonate across generations. In this article, we will explore the importance of reading classic literature and delve into five must-read classic novels, examining the significance of each one's message. From the societal critiques of George Orwell's "1984" to the timeless romance of Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice," these novels continue to captivate and enlighten readers with their enduring relevance. Introduction to Classic Novels Classic novels are like the OGs of literature - the ones that have stood the test of time and continue to captivate readers with their timeless stories and deep insights into the human experience. Defining Classic Literature Classic literature is basically the VIP section of the book world. These are the books that have made a significant impact on society and culture, often addressing universal themes that resonate across generations. Benefits of Reading Classic Novels Reading classic novels is like taking a crash course in humanity. These books offer valuable lessons about life, love, society, and everything in between. Plus, you get major bragging rights for dropping references to Jane Austen at your next dinner party. Importance of Reading Classic Literature Classic literature isn't just old-fashioned stories gathering dust on a shelf - these books have enduring relevance because they speak to fundamental truths about the human experience. So, grab a cup of tea, cozy up with a classic novel, and prepare to be wowed by the wisdom of the ages. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen When it comes to classic novels, "Pride and Prejudice" is like the Beyoncé of literature - iconic, beloved by all, and full of timeless wisdom. Overview of the Novel Set in Regency-era England, "Pride and Prejudice" follows the outspoken Elizabeth Bennet as she navigates love, society, and the ridiculousness of matchmaking mamas. Themes and Messages Explored This novel isn't just about fancy balls and swoon-worthy romance - it's a sharp critique of class, gender roles, and the importance of looking beyond first impressions. Jane Austen was throwing shade before it was cool. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee "To Kill a Mockingbird" is the kind of book that stays with you long after you turn the last page - a powerful exploration of justice, morality, and the complexities of human nature. Summary of the Book Set in the racially charged South of the 1930s, the novel follows young Scout Finch as she learns about empathy, courage, and the harsh realities of prejudice through her father, the noble lawyer Atticus Finch. Exploring Social Issues and Morality Harper Lee's masterpiece doesn't shy away from the tough stuff - it tackles issues of racism, injustice, and the moral obligations we have to stand up for what's right, even when it's hard. This book is like a kick in the gut - in the best way possible. 1984 by George Orwell Synopsis of the Novel In "1984," George Orwell paints a bleak picture of a totalitarian society ruled by the Party and its leader, Big Brother. The protagonist, Winston Smith, rebels against the oppressive regime, only to face the brutal consequences of challenging authority. Significance of Orwell's Warning Orwell's warning in "1984" serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked government power and surveillance. The novel explores themes of censorship, propaganda, and individual freedom, urging readers to remain vigilant against threats to democracy and personal liberty. The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger Analyzing the Protagonist and Themes "The Catcher in the Rye" follows the teenage protagonist, Holden Caulfield, as he navigates the complexities of adolescence and society. Holden's alienation and search for authenticity resonate with readers, making him a relatable and enduring character. Relevance of the Novel in Modern Society J.D. Salinger's exploration of themes such as alienation, innocence, and societal expectations in "The Catcher in the Rye" remains relevant in modern society. The novel's critique of phoniness and the loss of innocence continues to resonate with readers of all ages. Conclusion: Impact of Classic Novels on Society Classic novels hold a special place in the literary canon for their ability to transcend time and connect with readers on a profound level. By exploring the themes and messages within these timeless works, we gain valuable insights into human nature, society, and the complexities of the world we live in. As we continue to cherish and revisit these must-read classics, we are reminded of the enduring power of literature to inspire, provoke thought, and shape our understanding of the world around us. I'd appreciate hearing your comments. Please leave them in the Comment Box at the bottom of the page. Dale Thele Bestselling Fiction Author Stories with an LGBTQ+ Twist corrupting readers since 2008 Don't miss another blog post! Get new blog post notifications and new book/story releases sent directly to your email. Click here to subscribe .

Image from Pixabay Reading is not just a leisurely activity; it also has profound effects on both the mind and body. Delving into a novel can trigger a cascade of reactions within the brain, influencing neural pathways and promoting cognitive development. Beyond the realm of intellect, reading also evokes emotional responses, fostering empathy and enhancing emotional intelligence. In this article, we explore the intricate relationship between reading and the human body, uncovering the fascinating ways in which engaging with a novel can impact our well-being. Brain Activity and Neural Connections When you dive into a novel, your brain lights up like a Christmas tree on December 1st. Multiple regions in your brain get in on the action, firing up to process the words, feelings, and images you're soaking in. It's like a disco party in your noggin, keeping those neural connections firing and wired for more excitement. Activation of Multiple Brain Regions Reading a novel doesn't just tickle one part of your brain; it's a full-on brain bonanza. Areas responsible for language, visualization, and even empathy get a workout, making sure you're fully immersed in the story. So go ahead and thank your brain for throwing a wild party every time you crack open a book. Strengthening of Neural Pathways Just like doing squats strengthens your legs, reading a novel strengthens your brain. The more you read, the more you're laying down some serious neural pathways. It's like building a superhighway in your brain that makes it easier and faster to process information. Who knew reading could be so empowering? Emotional Responses and Empathy Reading isn't just a mental exercise; it's an emotional rollercoaster that can expand your heart and mind. By connecting with characters and their struggles, you're not just escaping reality—you're building empathy muscles that can make you a more compassionate human. Empathy Development through Character Engagement When you root for Harry Potter to defeat Voldemort or cry when Hazel Grace faces her fate in "The Fault in Our Stars," you're not just an observer; you're walking in their fictional shoes. This emotional immersion helps you understand different perspectives, making you more empathetic in real life. So keep on crying those book tears; it's making you a better person. Impact on Emotional Intelligence Reading novels isn't just a hobby; it's a crash course in emotional intelligence. By navigating complex character arcs and motivations, you're honing your ability to understand and manage emotions. So, the next time someone asks why you're buried in a book, just tell them you're working on your EQ—it's the smart thing to do. Cognitive Benefits and Mental Stimulation Reading isn't just about escaping reality; it's a mental gym session that can pump up your brainpower and keep your cognitive wheels spinning. From boosting your memory to sharpening your critical thinking skills, novels are like brain vitamins in the form of thrilling stories. Enhanced Critical Thinking Skills Forget brain teasers; novels are the ultimate workout for your critical thinking muscles. As you unravel mysteries, analyze character motives, and predict plot twists, you're giving your brain a serious challenge. So, next time someone underestimates your reading addiction, just remind them that you're a critical thinking ninja in the making. Improved Memory Retention Reading a novel isn't just a one-time experience; it's a memory boot camp for your brain. From remembering intricate plots to recalling character details, your brain is getting a workout in retention and recall. So, keep flipping those pages; your memory will thank you later. Stress Reduction and Relaxation When life gets chaotic, there's nothing like curling up with a good book to escape the madness. Reading isn't just a form of self-care; it's a stress-busting oasis that can transport you to a calmer, more peaceful state of mind. So, grab a book, kick back, and let the worries of the day melt away into the pages. The Role of Reading in Stress Management In a world full of noise and distractions, reading offers a refuge of peace and quiet. Whether you're exploring distant galaxies or diving into a cozy mystery, immersing yourself in a novel can lower your heart rate and ease tension. So, next time life throws a curveball, reach for a book—it's the ultimate stress antidote. Promotion of Relaxation Response Reading isn't just a leisure activity; it's a secret weapon for triggering your relaxation response. As you get lost in a story, your breathing slows, your muscles unwind, and your mind drifts to a tranquil place. It's like a mini-vacation for your brain, giving you a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. So, sit back, relax, and let the power of reading whisk you away to a calmer state of being. Physical Effects on the Body Reduced Heart Rate and Pressure When you dive into a good book, your body can experience a calming effect. Research shows that reading can lead to a reduction in heart rate and blood pressure, akin to the feeling of relaxation during meditation. So, next time you're feeling stressed, maybe reach for a book instead of that stress ball. Improved Sleep Quality Ever find yourself struggling to fall asleep? Reading a few chapters before bed might just be the solution. Engaging with a novel can help ease your mind, allowing you to unwind and drift off into dreamland more easily. Just be cautious not to get too caught up in the story, or that "just one more chapter" mentality might keep you up all night. Long-Term Impact on Health Prevention of Cognitive Decline Reading isn't just a mental exercise; it's a boon for your brain health as well. Studies suggest that regularly engaging in activities like reading can help stave off cognitive decline as you age. So, the next time someone tells you to put down that book and socialize, just let them know you're maintaining your brain health. Benefits for Overall Well-Being Reading isn't just a hobby; it's a form of self-care too. The mental stimulation and escapism provided by a good book can work wonders for your overall well-being. So, the next time someone scoffs at your growing book collection, remind them that it's all in the name of self-care. Connection Between Reading and Well-Being There's a reason why bookworms often exude a sense of calm and contentment. Reading has been linked to improved emotional intelligence, empathy, and even better relationships with others. So, the next time you immerse yourself in a novel, know that you're not just escaping reality – you're also nurturing your well-being in the process. In conclusion, the act of reading a novel is not merely a form of entertainment, but a powerful tool for nurturing both mental and physical health. From stimulating brain activity to reducing stress levels and enhancing overall well-being, the benefits of immersing oneself in a good book are truly far-reaching. So, the next time you pick up a novel, remember that you are not just turning pages—you are also enriching your mind and body in ways that can positively shape your life. I'd appreciate hearing your comments. Please leave them in the Comment Box at the bottom of the page. Dale Thele Bestselling Fiction Author Stories with an LGBTQ+ Twist corrupting readers since 2008 Don't miss another blog post! Get new blog post notifications and new book/story releases sent directly to your email. Click here to subscribe .

This is the first refillable fountain pen that set me on the road to collecting and using fountain pens: The Fountain Pen Revolution (F.P.R.) Indus Clear Demo with gold-tone accents. This is not an expensive pen; it's made in India exclusively for F.P.R., an Indian fountain pen distributor in Arkansas, USA. The Indus is a clear demonstrator made entirely of transparent plastic except for the gold-toned metal clip, ring, and stainless steel Extra Fine nib. It's a piston-filler that is filled with ink by twisting a knob on the end of the pen which draws the ink into the ink reservoir. The Indus is lightweight and comfortable in the hand. I keep my Indus inked with Waterman Serenity Blue fountain pen ink, and it's always within easy reach on my desk. The clear Indus Demonstrator is just a fun pen for a basic no-frills pen. I enjoy watching the ink slosh inside; being transparent, I can observe its internal working parts. I would like to hear your thoughts. Leave a comment in the Comment Box at the bottom of the page. Dale Thele Bestselling Fiction Author Stories with an LGBTQ+ Twist corrupting readers since 2008 Don't miss another blog post! Get new blog post notifications and new book/story releases sent directly to you by email. Click here to subscribe .

Yes, I'm a fountain pen addict. It all started in April 2015 when I purchased my first fountain pen. I fell in love with the little boogers and began collecting and using fountain pens, both vintage & contemporary. My collection exceeds 200 vintage and modern fountain pens, a few dip pens, and an assortment of vintage and contemporary ink pen paraphernalia. My ink collection consists of mostly traditional inks (Parker, Waterman, Chesterfield, Sheaffer, and Levenger) as these inks are compatible with vintage pens. I avoid "boutique" inks as they can damage the earlier manufactured fountain pens. I do have one black De Atramentis document ink (waterproof and archive ink) and a bottle of Noodler's Black (also waterproof), both are used only in contemporary fountain pens. There are two types of Fountain Pen collectors: (1) the collector, who collects but does not use the pens. This individual acquires and trades mostly unused fountain pens and has little or no interest in using the pen. (2) the other collector is the individual who acquires and uses his/her fountain pens. I am a collector/user, and I enjoy writing with different fountain pen models/makes. I would like to hear your thoughts. Leave a comment in the Comment Box at the bottom of the page. Dale Thele Bestselling Fiction Author Stories with an LGBTQ+ Twist corrupting readers since 2008 Don't miss another blog post! Get new blog post notifications and new book/story releases sent directly to you by email. Click here to subscribe .

My very first fountain pen: the Pilot Varsity disposable fountain pen captures the fun of writing with a fountain pen in a modern plastic body style. Its medium stainless steel nib and Advanced Liquid Ink Feed System provide a smooth writing experience, and the black ink supply is visible through a window on the side. The Varsity is an excellent no-maintenance everyday fountain pen; toss the pen in the trash when the ink runs out. However, fountain pen enthusiasts have devised a way to refill the pen if one is so inclined. An extremely inexpensive fountain pen that writes like a pen priced many times the $2.95 price tag. I would like to hear your thoughts. Leave a comment in the Comment Box at the bottom of the page. Dale Thele Bestselling Fiction Author Stories with an LGBTQ+ Twist corrupting readers since 2008 Don't miss another blog post! Get new blog post notifications and new book/story releases sent directly to you by email. Click here to subscribe .

Here is another of my go-to pens, the Hero 616 in black plastic and chrome metal is a Chinese-manufactured fountain pen that pays homage to the great Parker 51 model fountain pen. The pen is well copied in detail even down to the Parker arrow clip and the steel "jewel" crowned cap. The thin metal cap is etched with separated groupings of 7 pinstripes and has the Chinese characters for "Hero" and the model number "616". Once the slip cap is removed, the clutch ring at the join of the barrel and hood is displayed. However, unlike the all-metal ring of the original 51, the Hero ring serves as a small ink-view window, enabling one to see if there's ink left in the reservoir (a feature that would have been convenient on the Parker 51). Unscrewing the barrel reveals the pump-style filler similar to the aerometric filler of the original Parker 51 for use with bottled ink. The pen holds a surprising amount of ink and is a smooth writer for such an inexpensive pen. It's lighter than my Parker 51, yet both pens are comfortable writers. I regularly have the Hero 616 filled with Sheaffer Purple fountain pen ink for general writing. I would like to hear your thoughts. Leave a comment in the Comment Box at the bottom of the page. Dale Thele Bestselling Fiction Author Stories with an LGBTQ+ Twist corrupting readers since 2008 Don't miss another blog post! Get new blog post notifications and new book/story releases sent directly to you by email. Click here to subscribe .

Waterman " Carene " fountain pen is an elegant and classy pen making me feel as if I'm composing an epic tome. The  Carene  is a deep black luminescent lacquer finish barrel with electroplated palladium trim with a shape inspired by the streamlined symmetry of the world's finest yachts. The French translation of “ carène ” is “hull”. This quality fountain pen features a highly lacquered barrel and extremely smooth in-laid rhodium-plated 18k solid gold extra fine nib. Heavyweight (brass base), yet ergonomically balanced for writing comfort. The pen can be fitted with a Waterman cartridge or a Waterman converter for use with bottled ink. The timeless design of the Waterman " Carene " fountain pen is made in France. Note: I'm currently hand-writing the first draft of Clipped Wings with my Carene , filled with Waterman Mysterious Blue bottled fountain pen ink on 8.5 x 11.75 canary yellow legal pads. I would like to hear your thoughts. Leave a comment in the Comment Box at the bottom of the page. Dale Thele Bestselling Fiction Author Stories with an LGBTQ+ Twist corrupting readers since 2008 Don't miss another blog post! Get new blog post notifications and new book/story releases sent directly to you by email. Click here to subscribe .

Entire First Draft of CLIPPED WINGS Who handwrites anymore? That's so old school. Well, just call me old fashion. Back in December, I completed the rough draft of CLIPPED WINGS , entirely handwritten in cursive with a fountain pen in a total of eight college-ruled composition books. Why would I put myself through such cruel torture? Well, I love writing with fountain pens, there's nothing that can compare with the feel and sensation of watching liquid ink form words on a piece of paper. In 2012 I ran across a YouTube video made by Brian Goulet about how to use fountain pens. Until that point in my boring life, I'd not paid any mind to fountain pens, after all, I grew up in the Bic pen generation. I was so captivated by his videos I watched everything Brian posted online. I searched out other fountain pen vids. It was as if I'd been put in a trance, I couldn't get enough information about fountain pens. In 2013, I entered an online contest and won a genuine fountain pen as my prize. I excitedly filled that sucker with ink from a small glass bottle. As soon as the nib connected with the paper, I was hooked. I had fallen head over heels into the allusive fountain pen rabbit hole. Since that fateful day, I seek out any opportunity to write with pen and ink. Sometimes when I can't find something useful to write I simply scribble one phrase over and over on any paper I have handy. “The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog” . Call me crazy and order a tailor to fit me for a straight jacket. I am a fountain pen addict, and I publicly admit it. There, I said it. With my love of fountain pens, it was just a natural desire to handwrite the first draft of my inaugural novel in 2017. Sure I'd written and published a couple of short stories and three novellas in 2010, but they were composed entirely on a laptop. That was years before I became mesmerized by the fantastical world of fountain pens. I began my new adventure into handwriting a fictional novel rough draft. Not just any novel, but an epic-length Southern literary novel. To prepare for the journey, I inked up anywhere from 6 – 8 fountain pens with different brands and colors of fountain pen ink. I also acquired a bunch of cheap college-ruled composition books for fifty cents each – I'm kind of a cheapskate. From Amazon, I purchased a SMUDGEGUARD spandex glove. It's a two-finger glove that fits on the pinky and ring fingers and prevents the transfer of body oil onto the paper as you write. Fountain pens can be persnickety boogers when they come into contact with body oil, it may skip or not lay a proper amount of ink on paper. Smudgeguard also protects the hand from getting all inky by accidentally dragging it across wet ink. Of course, for the fountain pen enthusiast, it's considered a badge of courage to brandish inky hands and fingers, it just comes with the territory. To prepare for my new task I needed some writing background music, something that would tug at my emotions. I returned to YouTube again where I found and downloaded a large collection of emotional piano and violin music tracks. I don't think I broke any laws in doing so -- if I did -- oopsie. So, I began handwriting the rough draft in cursive, you know what that is? It's that curlicue style of handwriting that just about anyone born after 1970 can't read. It's a private hieroglyphic type of writing that the Baby Boomer generation and generations before used to compose secret messages to one another. One of the rough draft notebooks I found that handwriting was much more convenient than lugging a bulky laptop around everywhere. I could take my composition book and a couple of fountain pens along wherever I went. I wrote in coffee shops, on public transit, and waiting in lobbies between appointments, and I could even write when I was in the toilet if I wanted. The downside, fountain pens do not hold an indefinite amount of ink. It was not uncommon to be writing happily along and run out of ink in mid-sentence when I'd simply grab a replacement inked pen. I'd go through from 6 -8 inked pens each week. Every Sunday I'd clean and refill the next week's supply of pens. So, that's a quick overview of how the rough draft of CLIPPED WINGS was written – by hand, in cursive, with fountain pens, in college-ruled composition books. Could I get much more old-school than that? A sampling of pens and inks I used to write the rough draft: Sheaffer 1960's vintage “School Pen” …............Pelikan 4001 Dunkelgrun Ink Fountain Pen Revolution “Himalaya” …............ Chesterfield Amethyst Platinum “Plaisir” …...................................................... Sheaffer Peacock Blue Levenger “True Writer” ….......................................... Waterman Mysterious Blue Lamy “Safari” …............................................................. Diamine Eclipse Sailor “1911” …............................................................... Levenger Cocoa Esterbrook “J-Series” (vintage) …..........................Monteverde Moonstone Parker “Sonnet” (60's vintage) …...........................Cross Violet (limited edition) Waterman “Carene” …...............................................Waterman Serenity Blue Pilot “Metropolitan” …..................................................Parker Blue/Black Happy Writing! My desk I would like to hear your thoughts. Leave a comment in the Comment Box at the bottom of the page. Dale Thele Bestselling Fiction Author Stories with an LGBTQ+ Twist corrupting readers since 2008 Don't miss another blog post! Get new blog post notifications and new book/story releases sent directly to you by email. Click here to subscribe .

Photo by A Dude Abikes Had an amazing afternoon with A Dude Abikes . A budding new author to watch for. Take a look at his blog and make sure you LIKE his posts and don't forget to Follow A Dude Abikes . He's an awesome dude. Dale Thele Bestselling Fiction Author Stories with an LGBTQ+ Twist corrupting readers since 2008 Don't miss another blog post! Get new blog post notifications and new book/story releases sent directly to you by email. Click here to subscribe .

Photo by Pixabay There’s an old saying “write what you know” a popular expression among writers. So what happens when you write a story of “what you know” but you don’t have all the factors to conclude the story? Over four decades ago, when I was a high school student, there were some unconventional incidents that took place in my teens. Years later, I considered writing an autobiography that would have revealed a real and intimate part of my life, but I was missing a key component, the “why did those events take place?” Without answers to that question, an autobiographical account was out of the question. Who’d want to read a book with no conclusion? Those events were real, and they changed not only my life but the lives of others. Yet I didn’t have the details to wrap up the story all tidy and neat. On a personal note, I had struggled with the “why?” for years. I had kept that part of my life private because I worried to tell my story due to possible retaliation. For years, I wanted to put those memories behind me. I craved and needed closure. Finally, the solution came to me. Couldn’t I write the “what I know” part and fill in the unknown “why” with fictional content? I wrote the rough draft and everything fell into place. The completed draft was a blend of fact and fiction. It answered every one of the unknown factors which eluded me for years. I had a complete story. And most of all, I found the closure I so desperately desired. The result was a coming-of-age story composed in the grey expanse between established facts and pure made-up fiction. No loose ends, no unanswered questions, and a story wrapped up with a big shiny bow. I entitled it CLIPPED WINGS . I completed the epic-length rough draft in four months. Handwritten with fountain pens and liquid bottled ink in eight cheap college-ruled composition notebooks. An additional three months to transpose the manuscript into digital format along with considerable first-round editing. There are several further rounds of self-editing to do. Then, I will release the manuscript to hungry beta readers. At which time, they will rip and shred my manuscript apart with their scathing remarks. From the beta readers' comments, I’ll have a plethora of editing options before me. However, I will have the last word as I wrap up the final edit before the manuscript goes to a third-party editor to polish the final manuscript for publishing. CLIPPED WINGS may be a Southern coming-of-age novel to its readers, but for me, I found closure to a dark part of my earlier life. The question remains, is the book fact or fiction? You and I know the actual answer, the story takes shape in that grey expanse that exists between fact and fiction yet is inspired by actual events. I would like to hear your thoughts. Leave a comment in the Comment Box at the bottom of the page. Dale Thele Bestselling Fiction Author Stories with an LGBTQ+ Twist corrupting readers since 2008 Don't miss another blog post! Get new blog post notifications and new book/story releases sent directly to you by email. Click here to subscribe .

No. This is not just any ol’ rag. It’s a fountain pen enthusiast’s ink rag. This swatch of cotton fabric represents the colors of bottled inks I’ve used over the past four years. Each time a fountain pen is re-inked, the pen and or the nib are wiped of excessive ink. Over time, the ink rag has grown into a story of inks used by this fountain pen enthusiast. This particular rag represents ink blots from various inks like the highly sought-after vintage Script Peacock Blue, traditional inks, limited edition inks, and contemporary boutique inks. Eventually, this rag will be mounted in a glass frame and hung on the wall as a trophy. Until that time, this rag will continue to amass a record of bottled inks which grace my fountain pens. Each blot represents countless hours of fascination observing the flow of ink from a fountain pen nib onto paper. There’s a sense of tranquility and nostalgia as the wrist and fingers guide the nib across the paper, leaving a trail of liquid ink in its wake. Countless grocery lists, notes, and articles written with the many inks have tinted this fabric swatch. This rag chronicles my pilgrimage through the use of fountain pens. Call me old-fashioned, call me a nerd, a weirdo, it doesn’t alter my love of fountain pens and inks. Maybe you call it an “obsession”, I prefer the word: fascination. Until one experiences the sensation of a superbly balanced fountain pen becoming one with the hand; effortlessly guiding a smooth nib across the paper, leaving behind a trail of pigmented liquid in its path; then, you too will realize the allure of the wonderfully fabulous fountain pen. I would like to hear your thoughts. Leave a comment in the Comment Box at the bottom of the page. Dale Thele Bestselling Fiction Author Stories with an LGBTQ+ Twist corrupting readers since 2008 Don't miss another blog post! Get new blog post notifications and new book/story releases sent directly to you by email. Click here to subscribe .

There’s way too much information to cram into one post, so here’s a quick overview of the history of GAY PRIDE and where it all began. Pride Commemorates the Stonewall Riots The history of the gay rights movement in this country is usually dated to 1969 when the patrons of a New York City bar fought back against a discriminatory police raid. At the time, homosexuality — or “sodomy,” as it was referred to in the legal books — was still a crime. Men could be arrested for wearing drag, and women faced the same punishment if they were found wearing less than three pieces of “feminine clothing.” The harassment continued for years, infuriating the gay community. On June 28, 1969, the police arrived at the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in Greenwich Village. However, the 200 patrons inside didn’t just sit down and wait to be arrested — they resisted, then rioted, sending the police a loud and clear message about their frustration with the status quo for LGBT individuals. If you ever wondered why Pride month takes place in June, now you know that it’s not just because of the generally pleasant weather. It’s historically relevant, too! “Gay Pride” Was Coined in 1970 Gay communities around the country immediately latched on to the Stonewall riots as an event that brought attention to their cause. Just a year later, in 1970, a committee was formed to commemorate the riots. The problem? The committee didn’t have a name for the series of events it wanted to hold in honor of LGBTQ rights. It tossed around the slogan “gay power” for a bit, but when committee member L. Craig Schoonmaker suggested “gay pride,” everyone else agreed on the phrase right away. Rainbow Flag & Creator Gilbert Baker Origin of the Gay Pride “Rainbow” Flag The first Rainbow Flag was designed in 1978 by Gilbert Baker, a San Francisco artist, who created the flag in response to a local activist’s call for the need for a community symbol. (This was before the pink triangle was popularly used as a symbol of pride.) Using the five-striped “Flag of the Race” as his inspiration, Baker designed a flag with eight stripes. Baker dyed and sewed the material for the first flag himself — in the true spirit of Betsy Ross. The design may have been influenced by flags with multicolored stripes used by various left-wing causes and organizations in the San Francisco area in the 1960s. The Rainbow Flag originally had eight stripes (from top to bottom): hot pink for sex, red for life, orange for healing, yellow for the sun, green for serenity with nature, turquoise for art, indigo for harmony, and violet for spirit. Handmade versions of this flag were flown in the 1978 Gay Freedom Day Parade. Use of the rainbow flag by the gay community began in 1978 when it first appeared in the San Francisco Gay and Lesbian Freedom Day Parade. Borrowing symbolism from the hippie movement and black civil rights groups, San Francisco artist Gilbert Baker designed the rainbow flag in response to a need for a symbol that could be used year after year. Baker and thirty volunteers hand-stitched and hand-dyed two huge prototype flags for the parade. The flags had eight stripes, each color representing a component of the community. After the November 1978 assassination of San Francisco Mayor George Moscone and openly gay Supervisor Harvey Milk and the subsequent lenient sentence given to their killer, former Supervisor Dan White, the Rainbow Flag began to be used in San Francisco as a general symbol of the gay community. San Francisco-based Paramount Flag Co. began selling seven-striped (top to bottom: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet) flags from its Polk Street retail store, which was located in a largely gay neighborhood. These flags were a surplus stock that had originally been made for the International Order of Rainbow for Girls, a Masonic organization for young women. When Baker approached Paramount to make flags for the 1979 Gay Freedom Day Parade, Paramount informed Baker that fabric for hot pink was not available for mass production, and Baker dropped the hot pink stripe. Harvey Milk and Cleve Jones After Harvey Milk Supervisor Harvey Milk’s untimely death struck a major blow to the momentum of the Gay Rights Movement. However, a young man by the name of Cleve Jones, who had worked tirelessly on Milk’s campaign for Supervisor, stepped up to fight for Milk’s dream. Jones went on to establish several Gay organizations and was instrumental in keeping Milk’s dream alive still today. Greater detail of the Stonewall riots, Harvey Milk, Cleve Jones, Gilbert Baker, and schedules of PRIDE events around the world, can be found online. Please, take some time to research and read more about PRIDE. Let us celebrate DIVERSITY and PRIDE. Suggested Movies: Stonewall Digital Before & After Stonewall: 25th Anniversary Edition American Experience: Stonewall Uprising Milk (Harvey Milk Story) I would like to hear your thoughts. Leave a comment in the Comment Box at the bottom of the page. Dale Thele Bestselling Fiction Author Stories with an LGBTQ+ Twist corrupting readers since 2008 Don't miss another blog post! Get new blog post notifications and new book/story releases sent directly to you by email. Click here to subscribe .