What I've been doing
Writing, but not here
As it has been over a year since I last posted here, I wanted to take a moment to update you on what I’ve been up to this year.
Besides having another wonderful baby, I’ve been grinding steadily away at my third novel. I’m currently finishing the last scene, which will wrap up not only the book but the series as well.
All my (very limited) writing time has been going to that project, and that is why I haven’t been posting here, though I’ve had some ideas I wanted to share. (And I still hope to share them, when I find the time!)
This year I also had the pleasure of seeing one of my essays appear in Hearth and Field Magazine.
My essay appeared only in the print edition, so you won’t be able to find it on the website, but if you haven’t encountered Hearth and Field Magazine, I recommend giving it a look. It’s a delightful combination of philosophical essays about literature, economics, and life, practical homesteading tips, recipes, and stories from people’s lives as they try to practice the art of living humanly. While the print magazine is arguably the best experience—nicely laid out, printed on high quality paper, with essays interspersed with beautiful photos and art—the website and email newsletter provide a good sampling of what they offer.
Besides simply wanting to see my words printed in Hearth and Field’s lovely pages, my other reason to submit my essay there instead of simply posting it here comes from Cal Newport, whose books and podcasts about digital distraction and living the “deep life” have been an inspiration to me for several years now.
One of the principles of his work is that the honing of a craft is fundamental both to finding satisfaction and enjoyment in life, and also to achieving economic success. As a writer himself, he often uses the craft of writing as an example of this, and give helpful suggestions for how to improve. One of his most frequently repeated pieces of advice for aspiring writers is to “write for an editor.” Actually submit your work to someone who might reject it. If they reject it, that’s feedback, of a sort. (I can’t say unanswered emails feel like useful feedback, but we take what we can get.)
Even if you aren’t outright rejected, it doesn’t mean that the editor will be full of praise for your work. Likely they’ll rip apart your most treasured phrases and tell you to write something else instead. They’ll tell you it’s too long or too short, or point out how it’s not unified enough, or doesn’t quite fit the tone of their publication. And while this might sound discouraging, it’s precisely through this kind of criticism that a writer can hone his skills and expand his reach.
I enjoyed the editorial process with Hearth and Field, and becoming accustomed to seeking criticism on my writing has made me more open to seeking and accepting feedback in other areas of my life. I’m still not excited when my five-year-old criticizes my homemaking skills, (Mom, supper tastes bad!) but being open to negative feedback in general has made my life immeasurably better.
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas, and a wonderful new year.