Grieving is the Right Word

Is it possible to grieve the loss of an inanimate object?  No, I didn’t lose my pet or a friend or even note the demise of my favorite writer.  But seeing our local independent bookstore in Golden close its doors forever is a loss.  I feel the lack of the shop acutely.  I drive by and see the dark windows with huge signs FOR RENT and feel what I believe can only be described as grief.  Clear Creek Books was new when we moved to Golden 3 1/2 years ago.  I found it right away and introduced myself to Craig, the irascible owner/proprietor.  Within a year, I was arranging for authors and poets to read at Clear Creek Books.  Because I do a little fiction writing myself, I’ve been privileged to meet local authors as well as several from other parts of the country who pass through Denver.  With a little (ok, in some cases, quite a bit) of emailing and telephoning, I helped arrange, organize and publicize these readings.  The bookstore hosted, people came in to see an author (or just wandered in the door at the right moment), a few books were sold, the author and the bookstore made a few dollars and everyone had a good time.  The crusty demeanor that Craig projected didn’t make him easy to deal with but I loved arranging the events- otherwise, I wouldn’t have organized ten in fewer than eighteen months.  Unfortunately, electronic readers, online stores and a rocky economic climate combined with an increase in rent to drive the little shop out of business.  I felt sorry for Craig for awhile.  Then I realized that I cannot know his path so I have no idea what is ahead for him.  He may find a cure for his ulcer, reshape his priorities an go on to great times.  The City of Golden will probably sell off the contents of the shop and hopefully recoup back taxes.  The landlord will eventually find another tenant.  The lights will go back on in those windows.  I will find another location for authors to come and read and chat with readers.  And I will get over it.  But for right now, I’m grieving.  I think grieving is the right word.

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