“The idea that you can’t explore contemporary themes in a historical setting is ridiculous. Do I want to write a novel set today? Only if I have the right story to tell. The times don’t matter at all–it’s always the story, the story, the story.” ~ John Boyne
Read the rest of this entry »Archive for the 'Jessica Page Morrell' Category
“Writing is…. being able to take something whole and fiercely alive that exists inside you in some unknowable combination of thought, feeling, physicality, and spirit, and to then store it like a genie in tense, tiny black symbols on a calm white page. If the wrong reader comes across the words, they will remain just […]
Read the rest of this entry »Opportunities for Writers from Poets & Writers
January is a great month to check out Poets & Writers online. What a resource. They have the most comprehensive list of contests, grants, and gigs around. Talk about a treasure trove. Check it out here.
Read the rest of this entry »Brought to you by the letter R: Routine
Well my snow dreams have come true and last week a foot of snow fell on our area. And it’s still here. An unusual circumstance in the Willamette Valley, though I’m now living further east in the valley and closer to the Cascades. It was a snowfall to delight children, wet and heavy, perfect for […]
Read the rest of this entry »Brought to you by the Letter R: Ritual, Resolute, Routine
We’re in the second week of January and the Portland area has come through another snow and ice storm. The southern part of Oregon has accumulated a lot more snowfall than we have although the nearby Cascades boast record snowfall levels. My Facebook friends’ photos of snowy wonderlands have left me with a bad case […]
Read the rest of this entry »January…..at last. What are your writing plans for 2017?
This is what January looked like when I was a kid and it’s how my father’s yard looks in northern Wisconsin. Still. Cold that bites. Dusk arriving early. In the northern hemisphere it’s the perfect time to write. And read, of course. Write down your plans. Make them specific. Dream large. Use the quiet of […]
Read the rest of this entry »NaNoWriMo: The Final Push
It’s here: the final days to finish your NaNoWriMo novel and hit your word 50,000 word count. Your rewards are within reach and you’re likely weary. But you can do this. The weekend is sprawling before you with time and space and granting permission to write. In case your story is stalling or thin here […]
Read the rest of this entry »Stay inspired by nature and language
“November – with uncanny witchery in its changed trees. With murky red sunsets flaming in smoky crimson behind the westering hills. With dear days when the austere woods were beautiful and gracious in a dignified serenity of folded hands and closed eyes – days full of a fine, pale sunshine that sifted through the late, […]
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