The Islander

I was just reading a blog called “A Fantasy About Retiring Abroad,” in which a financial planner weighed the pros and cons of living in a foreign country. Her conclusion was it would be utterly impossible for her (and by implication, anyone with any sense) because the Europeans – specifically the French – do not have a “can-do” attitude. Oh honey, I wanted to tell her, that’s the best reason I can think of for living in Europe. It’s such a relief to live among people who aren’t constantly striving to exceed their own impossible goals. How sad that the financial planner couldn’t even have a fantasy that failed to meet her efficiency standards. 

The Islander. Oil on canvas. 13x18 inches (46 x 33 cm). $650.

I think Jan the Islander has the right idea. Originally from Germany, he has spent 20 years living on a remote island off the southern coast of Portugal in a whimsical house he’s covered with gifts from the sea: shells, old oars, bits of driftwood he’s carved into mermaids. He gets a great deal done on this work of art yet manages to have plenty of time for sitting in the sun and chatting with passersby. I’ve never seen him wear anything but a bathing suit and, rather incongruously, a wristwatch. I’m hoping it’s broken, and that he wears it to remind himself: “My watch doesn’t work anymore and neither do I.” 

Originally published Sunday, June 12, 2011