A friend of mine read a story and wrote me a long note with some super smart observations. This was the most intense analysis of my work I'd ever read. It was amazing and flattering and gave me lots to think about. One of the most interesting comments was about theme. She noted that many … Continue reading Smothering
ponderings
What season are you?
When I was at the delicate age of twelve there was a summer class offered on beauty. I remember the class description being vague, at best. My mother was thrilled, she has always been one for layering beauty on oneself. I thought the class might be more about cultivating inner beauty and positive self image. … Continue reading What season are you?
YA Literature & The Mommy Book Club
I belong to a book club. I refer to it as the "mommy book club" because all the other members are mothers like me. It is a nice monthly escape for an evening, a chance to get together and talk about books and life. There is copious wine, beer and sweet treats involved. It gives … Continue reading YA Literature & The Mommy Book Club
Secret Lives
I'm mildly obsessed with advice columns. There is something so awful/amazing about the questions people will ask under the guise of anonymity. I love stories. I wouldn't write them if I didn't. And there is no better place to find the snapshot of a well-developed character in the throes of a high conflict situation than … Continue reading Secret Lives
For Shame
So, when I was young and starting out in my writing I fancied myself a poet. I filled notebooks with quasi-confessional prose poems (all very terrible), one of which started out with this line:"If it wasn't for shame, I'd have nothing to wear."I won't bore you with the rest of this overworked, tired metaphor about … Continue reading For Shame
In Review: What I’ve been reading this week
The website of Mary Herczog - "Cancer Chick"The world lost something special this week with her passing. Her account of her struggles with cancer is deeply moving, funny, real and positively heartbreaking all at the same time.There has been a plethora of good reading at the literary magazines this week. Some of my favorites included:"What … Continue reading In Review: What I’ve been reading this week
Jennifer Marie Donahue 