I recently read a book called the ‘Play Ethic’ by former Hue & Cry front man Pat Kane, who has now turned academic/consultant/writer/player/voice of those who truly embody what 21st century living is all about. Personally it offered me nothing hugely ground-breaking in terms of thought but what it did give me was the confidence in my approach, in that there are others out there striving for the same goals…an ethical, fulfilling, creative, random, rollercoaster full of fun life!

So anyhow this got me thinking about the Island and why is it home to many people with the 21st century players outlook on life? What is it that a three mile stretch of water does the to the individual? What has been its attraction to creatives over the past few centuries? What is inherently special about Island life?

Well firstly the Island has been a home/hideaway for the great minds, artists and writers since the Victorians with Tennyson, Darwin, Carroll, Keats, Swinburne, Turner, Marx, Cameron to name a few making the pilgrimage across the 3-mile stretch of water for some serious R&R. This trend has continued through to the modern day with Anthony Minghella even making a direct reference as a part of his Oscar winning speech for the English Patient; ‘this is another great day for the Isle of Wight!’ – the Island got a mention at the world’s most prestigious awards evening? With those choice words echoing around the world Islander’s home and away stood proud – while the rest asked; ‘where?’

So we’re cool and proud…but this still doesn’t answer my question of why? What is it that attracts these individuals and leads to acts of great patriotism such as that of our Mr Minghella? Why do us Islander’s defend it to the bitter end and why do we feel this great relief, like a weight being lifted off our shoulders when we first step off the ferry after a trip away?

We have amasing scenery, beautiful beaches, quaint villages, a vibrant arts scene, a year packed full of wicked events, the Bees, Drew, Cowes, surf, wind, diverse landscapes, sunshine and friendly people? But so do Scotland (well minus the sunshine!), Wales and Cornwall?

Island life is about ‘life’; we choose to live here not for money, or fancy cars and big house (well most of us!) but for life…and that is something we will defend to the bitter end. Personally I left a career in economic development on the mainland after only a year in the job to return to develop the Island’s sustainable tourism programme, Green Island. Some of my ‘overner’ friends thought I was nuts and committing career suicide…but 3 years down the line I love my life-work-life, I have enough to survive and do everything I want. While my overner friends are still chasing the buck in London, overworked, stressed, pasty white and questioning the ethics of what they’re doing…I’ll just keep enjoying the beach, the sunsets, the walks and creative energy it instils in me.

So I guess what makes the Island special is the slight detachment from the ‘system’, we operate in our own little world and attach special value to living a fulfilling, stress-free, creative and playful life. I guess the only thing that money can buy is a visit to the Isle of Wight!!!

If you’re feeling run-down, are hating the city, have lost inspiration or need some time to reflect then jump on the ferry and come and immerse yourself in some care-free living. You don’t even have to do anything other than hang-out, lay on the beach, enjoy the sunset or read a book, cause that’s what its all about!

Come and play

Steve