Creativity in Chaos

Dear writers and friends,

Earlier this week, I heard a comedian talk about how rough it is to be living in this spooky, anxious time leading up to . . . Halloween.

But no matter happens on, um, Halloween, our human assignment remains the same: to build meaningful and joyful lives, do good, connect with others, and push for progress where progress lags.

All while getting enough sleep and rest, eating good food, loving each other well, filling our creative souls, and making something that we believe in. Oh, and let’s not forget to find joy.

A little pub news . . .

After decades of not writing short stories, I had two published in 2024.

KARMA IS MY BOYFRIEND came out in the Sewanee Review this week. (KARMA is paywalled after the first third of the story, but it’s only $35 for an annual subscription to the online and print version, if you want to know how it ends.)

THE GODDESS OF ILLICIT CHOICES came out in the Wisconsin Academy Magazine last spring.

GIRLFRIENDING, my most recent novel, is being courted by a few promising suitresses, each of whom is taking her sweet time. I’m hopeful I’ll have hard news soonish.

A little teaching news . . .

I’ve launched a new project that’s been in the idea and planning stages for a long time. WRITE YOUR NOVEL is an online coaching and support system for novelists of all experience levels and genres.

WYN is a way for me to hold your hand, offer advice, ask questions that inspire you to write, and cheer you through the rough parts.

It’s not exactly a workshop or an incubator or a coaching program — it’s all of the above, plus deadlines and accountability, nuts-and-bolts craft advice, and actionable strategies for keeping your head in the game until The End.

Eek, is there a discount for alumni?

Yes!

WYN is just starting, and it’s designed to grow in usefulness as it grows in community. So I’m offering former BIAY and Book Incubator writers 50% off the program for the remainder of 2024.

Use coupon code ALUMNI to take advantage of this promotion.

As with most MWS classes, I offer scholarship support to writers for whom the cost, discount or no, is prohibitive.

If you have questions about whether WYN is a good fit for your goals, please feel free to schedule a chat with me!

Other ways to work with me in 2025

BOOK IN A YEAR 2025. There are 2 spots left in BIAY 2025, which meets the 4th Thursday from Jan through Dec on Zoom. Email me with questions about BIAY, or enroll to join us.

VISIONS + REVISIONS. For writers of short stories and essays who want to keep their creative motors churning all year long. Michelle and I lead Visions & Revisions in tandem, to offer fresh eyes on revisions.

COACHING + EDITING. I love connecting one-on-one with writers as you write your first draft or when you’re ready for eyes on a finished manuscript. Email me for rates and timelines, or make an appointment to chat.

You’re receiving this email because we’ve worked together in the past. I hope my intrusion on your day is not unwelcome, and I promise not to batter your inbox.

All best,

P. S. While it’s true that I’m having my first ever colonoscopy on Halloween this year, it is also true that I will don my annual Wonder Woman duds for the occasion. Stay tuned for photos. #notacostume

P.P.S In the words of my father, Bill Daniel, “You’ll feel better after you vote.”