My Life on a Plate

Life's Mysteries

I received a letter this morning from the 'Legal Deposit Libraries.' I have no idea who they are but the address contains a list of associates belonging to The British Library. The letter reads -

'Your name appears in the catalogues of the Legal Deposit Libraries in connection with the work entitled -

Hot Stuff  (ASR) Be cautious if you ever meet a dragon. #490347 by Scarlett

Now this early poem of mine has been published by two very small, amateur concerns several years ago, for which I received nothing but a free copy of each magazine. I have not a clue what the 'Legal Deposit Library' is or why my poem is in their catalogue.

The reason they contacted me was to ask my full name and date of birth in order to distinguish between authors of the same name. The result of having a very common surname I suspect. Now if I'd stuck to my maiden name there'd be no mistaking me for anyone else...sigh.

They also wish to know if I wrote 'Planning in the Appalachian Region.' Erm...I don't even know what 'Appalachian' means, never mind write about it. So it seems they must have writing by people of the same name in their records but aren't sure who wrote what.

So does this mean I'm a recognised author? I have my name in the catalogue of the 'Legal Deposit Library,' whatever that is. And what of the other couple of things I've had published in small press magazines? Are they registered or not? It's all a mystery to me and I'm not sure if I'm famous or not. lol

Oh well, we're going out for dinner now. Will I be recognised and asked for my autograph?

I must admit it's so cold, wet and miserable here I'd love to order fish and chips and sink a bottle of wine...but I won't. By summer maybe, but my resolve will not weaken despite the lousy weather. You think I deserve a halo to go with those angel's wings?