how to write a kick-ass essay

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this afternoon, i listened to a terrific podcast in which Ann Hood shares 10 tips on how to write a kick-ass essay. using two essays from Junot Diaz and Jonathan Letham as examples, she outlines: make sure you write about the thing that keeps you up at night. when you do come up with that … Read more

platform

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platform a landing alongside railroad tracks.  you’re waiting. coal trains flashing past. most of the time you can’t speak on a train platform. there’s too much noise. and the anxiety about the ticket. where is it? should i move it to another pocket? check, double check. tiresome. this year i’ve watched writers who are so … Read more

you never stop learning, do you?

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i’ve learned one or two things in the last couple of years. i’m no longer interested in spending time with narcissistic people. life is too short. i’m thankful that i’ve uncovered the reasons* why i’ve historically attracted then tolerated these exhausting behaviours. you never stop learning, do you? *The Sergeant’s Daughter Syndrome *my mother

the sergeant’s daughter

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your Dad’s an RCMP Sergeant and you barely fit in at your new school. first day of Grade 6. “your Dad’s a pig,” says a big boy with a failed haircut that his mom inflicted on him, and briskly shoves you against the stucco wall during recess. your elbows shred, pink patches with little pinpricks … Read more

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NPR’s list of must read books for 2014: http://www.opb.org/artsandlife/article/npr-nprs-book-concierge-our-guide-to-2014s-great-reads/

hungry man

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  there’s a hungry man waiting under the chicken-on-the-way sign. he’s got his eye on a 5-piece snack box, fries and coleslaw combo. there’s nothing finer than a hot greasy chicken on a summer day. there’s a hungry man waiting under the chicken-on-the-way sign. he’s got his eye on a 5-piece, nothing finer than a … Read more

honesty

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recently, i read an essay by Meghan Daum that really struck me. i’m still processing the essay for it’s honesty not the details, although the details are beautifully written. substantiative. the essay’s unsettling because it’s horrifyingly honest if that makes any sense–and it makes sense to me. here’s an excerpt: If you asked me what … Read more