Poetry Practice: Pick a word for the day and write an impromptu poem. You can also create a list of words and write a poem for each. This practice is used to push the boundaries of a poem and force you to flex your writing skills.
For today, I have chosen the word “Evergreen”. Have a word suggestion for future poetry practices? Leave a comment below.
I have to confess when October was coming to a close, and I thought I would dive headfirst into writing a full-length novel for this year’s NaNoWriMo; boy, was I wrong.
I had no idea what I would write besides fiction, no plot, no character outline, and no idea what I was doing. Jumping into the deep end, it’s no wonder I quickly fell out of sync with working on my “novel.”
On top of everything else going on in the world, Salt Lake City, and my personal life, I figured out that I didn’t have the gumpf to write a novel right now; instead, I ended up writing a couple of short stories and a few poems.
What I do have written for this year’s NaNoWriMo (a measly 6k) could be a good start. Although I was trying not to write anything spooky, I get the impression; it will most likely be a psychological thriller/ghost story.
What else have I been up to?
I finished reading Lovecraft Country, and it was great! A fun read that had good plot twists and a range of captivating characters.
Moog Theremini
I bought one, finally, a theremin. After a few months of researching, I decided to get the Moog Theremini because it’s easy to tune, comes with a built-in speaker, and can connect easily with my DAW for recording. Plus, it has 32 presets of classic Moog synth sounds, which are excellent. This has been tons of fun learning how to play it and make some incredibly versatile sounds that I plan on using.
Murakami is probably one of the most talented contemporary writers in the world. His stories blend isolation and a hint of the otherworldly in his unique style.
I decided to pick up this chunky 600-something-page book and give it a shot. I’m already a sixth of the way through, and it’s an absorbing read. I’ve read other works by Murakami, but I can understand why this book is one people highly recommend when discussing his work.
Beta Reads
I am available for Beta Reads if anyone is looking for feedback on their poems, short stories, novellas, and novels. I read a slew of genres, including Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Romance, Literary, Mystery, Horror, and Thriller. Feel free to contact me through Fiverr if you’re interested in my services.
To my subscribers, expect more poems! I am dredging the hundreds of poems I’ve written and published on this blog. I’ve been handpicking select poems just for you while I brainstorm up writing tips. As usual, don’t hesitate to respond or strike up a conversation with me. I love discussing poetry, writing, and literature.
I’ve put my blog in the backseat for the past few weeks because I’m just exhausted. I’m tired of juggling everything, and really, I needed a break. Now we’re in the homestretch, the election is so close, and I am trying to stay positive, but damn, is it hard.
This month I have been revising my novel, really trying to tighten it up and bring it to life. I think I’ll have one of my best drafts completed by October 1st, and I’m excited.
Poetry? I’m trying to write more, but I have less energy to work on poems lately. Between revising my novel full-time and my new remote job, I don’t have a lot of energy left to work on poetry, but hopefully, that will change next month.
I’m focusing on reading these two books right now:
I’m looking for a contemporary poetry book or collection. If anyone has any recommendations, I’d be very interested to know what they are.
When it comes to world events, or I guess, in the U.S. The decision for the Breonna Taylor case is devastating and a complete disappointment. Another soul-crushing failure, and I can’t believe the response the Louisville police had, arresting protestors before the curfew on the day they announced the outcome of the case. Just total bullshit. Another blow.
I am so tired.
Stay positive, my friends, and reach out if you’d like to talk about books, writing, or anything else on your mind. I am here and happy to chat.