Category Archives: Musings

If You Want To Write, First Read Like A Writer

When aspiring fiction writers ask how to improve their work, they are often told one of two things: “write write write” or “read read read.” The first is pretty simple. All it requires is sitting in a chair, in front … Continue reading

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Filed under Musings, This Business of Writing

“And the heart is hit / In a city far away / But it feels so close”: Art, 9/11, and an Oregonian girl

This Wednesday I attended a reading at Nicola’s Books about Granta 116. The British literary magazine’s latest issue is focused on 9/11′s global impact. Granta sponsored similar events in fifty international cities. Panelists at the Nicola’s event included Jeremiah Chamberlin … Continue reading

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Filed under Field Trip, Klickitat Recommends, Musings, This Business of Writing

What’s past is prologue*

One of the advantages of remaining in the same town as your graduate institution is the chance to participate in alumni forums. At these events, faculty solicit feedback from alumni on their professional experiences, with an eye to improving future … Continue reading

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Paul Simon As Short Story Writer

I’ve always thought of Paul Simon’s songs as musical short stories. If you know me, I might have talked your ear off about his brilliance at some point or another. Probably in a car, on a road trip, when you … Continue reading

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Filed under Klickitat Recommends, Musings, Quote of the Day, This Business of Writing

Can A “Poor Reader” Affect A Love of Books?

There’s an interesting discussion happening over at Fuse #8 today. Betsy asks if it’s possible for “bad readers to affect a love of books.” I’ve enjoyed reading people’s thoughts. What do you think? For the record, here’s my response:

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Filed under Audience Participation, Musings, Youth Literature in the Wild