I’m currently working on a project set in the early 1920s in Cuba. I’m not a historical novelist and it’s a bit daunting to embark on something set in another […]
Category / General News
The Right Way to Write about Sex?
I’m currently working on a critical essay about two contemporary literary novels, both of which tackle sexual subject matter, yet in ways that feel decidedly unsexy. Yes, there’s a difference […]
The Joys of Being Edited
I’ve recently received galleys and edits for two new pieces coming out next year, and I’m reminded of how much I love working with smart editors, how they challenge me […]
Having the courage to write badly
In Anne Lamott’s Bird by Bird, Lamott talks about the necessity of what she famously terms “shitty first drafts.” Novelist Michael Chabon has also said that his first drafts are […]
Whatever You’re Trying to Hide is What Makes You an Interesting Writer
I’ve been working on a personal essay for Tin House magazine that made me think of a quote from Gordon Lish (paraphrased by Dana Spiotta), “Whatever you’re trying to hide […]