Why do we write? It’s an age-old question, but I found a good answer recently. “The purpose of being a serious writer is to keep people from despair,” says Sarah Manguso. “If people read your work and, as a result, choose life, then you are doing your job.” When you think of it, whether reading for entertainment or ... continue reading
What Creative Season Are You In?
I feel a bit like a hermit. I have closed the doors, sealed the windows, and hung an “out to lunch” sign, which is likely to remain until early January. I’m not trying to be difficult. I’m simply honoring the creative season I’m in – winter. Others are in spring, summer or fall -- right here in Austin, Texas. It’s not ... continue reading
When Faced with Pain, Create Anyway
She wheeled into the room on her little knee scooter, trying to find her way around the chairs in order to sit down. Cynthia was just the latest in a string of women in my writing circles who had had misfortunes of one sort or another, from broken toes to surgeries. I haven’t been able to write, she said with exasperation ... continue reading
What Happens in Taos Stays in Taos… Except when it Happens to Me
Note: I’m delighted to offer a short, entertaining guest blog by Didi Rowland, LCSW, as she describes her transformation at the 2019 Spring Retreat in Taos... After pushing the “Send Payment” button for the Taos retreat this year, I experienced a bit of buyer’s remorse. I really should spend that money on ... continue reading
Why We Write
Some women think when they join my writing circles that I will be the fierce taskmaster to their reluctant inner writer. “If I don’t write,” they ask “will you pin me down to hold me accountable?” They think fear motivates. It does, until we rebel or find it just one more task we are kicking ourselves down the road to ... continue reading