A lesson in writing and life: I cut huge chunks out of a discarded project and remixed it; the result was magic.
A lesson in writing and life: I cut huge chunks out of a discarded project and remixed it.
I applied Bowie’s method of cutting up a work and mixing up the pieces with a novel I had started and quit on. I had gotten to Chapter 4 and knew in my heart that it wasn’t my next novel. It didn’t grip me the way it needs to.
Several months later, I applied Bowie’s method to this trashed novel and created something so entirely new in the process that it was unrecognizable from the original project. And to be clear - the original project was both trashed and trash. I point this out only to emphasize that the fact I found something salvageable, something I can really be proud of, out of what had been junk is really exciting for writers. It’s exciting writing stuff that I would highly recommend.
Some things I’ve written recently:
For Insider, I wrote about earning a film degree I never “used,” as well as my adventure in homeschooling.
And then over on the Arrogant Baker blog, I shared my homesick guava pastelitos recipe and ideas for Mabon (the Fall Equinox).
What I’m reading/watching/listening to:
Reading: I’m trying to get in the mood for fall and started Practical Magic; I’ve never seen the movie either but have always wanted to. After I watch the movie, I’ll report back whether or not the book is better.
Watching: I started The Girlfriend on Prime and was admittedly jarred when it switched perspectives, much like in The Affair. I absolutely love thinking about how a situation can be experienced so differently among people.
Listening: I do not need to try to get in the mood for fall; I was kidding. I have been ready for fall; here’s the spooky playlist I have already made for this year’s Halloween.
And here’s a writing opportunity… and a prompt:
The Yale Review is accepting pitches and submissions until September 30th. Is it childish of me to immediately think of Rory as the editor? I can’t help it. But in all seriousness, it would be a dream to get published in The Yale Review, so if you do, let me know and I’ll share it here.
Oh - the prompt: What would you pitch Rory (or Doyle) as editor?
Write on,
Ashley