Star comment: Bill Bryson shows power of words are so positive
Few can underestimate the power of words. Nelson Mandela, one of the great figures of the 20th and 21st century, was among those who realised their value.
Mandela remarked that after 27 years in prison, he had learned how precious words were and how they could have a profound impact on the lives of others. He was one of many to note their elemental power.
Bill Bryson may not have the cachet of the late Mr Mandela. But he remains one of the world's most successful and well-read writers.
The best-selling author of humorous books has spent significant parts of his life in the UK and written extensively about Britain, most notably in his Notes From A Small Island travelogue, which became the best-selling travel book ever.
His latest volume is The Road to Little Dribbling, a book by a man who is older, grumpier but still just as entertaining as ever he was. The Road to Little Dribbling is subtitled More Notes from a Small Island and is a surefire hit.
Happily for Shropshire, it features an account of Bryson's travels to Shropshire, where he spent time in Ironbridge. He enjoyed himself so much that he described it as his favourite community.
His comments have already excited those who live locally, including the staff at the White Hart Inn, whom he wrote about in glowing terms.
Bryson's musings on Shropshire may seem inconsequential; after all, he's only written a little about one small corner of the county. But, in fact, they are anything but. They will undoubtedly have a positive effect on the county's tourism industry as people decide to follow in his footsteps and pay a visit.
The staff at the White Hart will acquire 'local hero' status and day trippers or visitors from further afield will no doubt call upon them.
Shropshire is a highly marketable county. It is stunningly beautiful county with rich heritage and natural beauty. Those charged with promoting the county's tourism industry will no doubt seize upon Mr Bryson's words and use them to attract more visitors.
And that will lubricate the industry's wheels, as new revenues help swell the coffers of B&B owners, tourist hot spots, restaurants and more.
The cumulative effect of positive public exposure for Shropshire helps to sustain the county's important tourist industry. Mr Bryson's remarks can but help.
Let's hope he liked it so much that he'll return again soon.
