What’s the difference between a story and a narrative relating a series of events? Once upon a time, dear reader, I might have answered, “Causality.” Because it’s a basic truth I’ve discovered as a book coach and editor: if you have plot that’s basically episodic—this happens, then that, and then this thing over here—the single most effective thing you can … Read More
Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea
I. Is a path, presumably, one must stick to. II. Or else succumb to the fathomless depths of despair. Or else agree to a devil’s bargain. III. Does the Devil haggle? Robert Johnson would know. He went down the crossroads at midnight and sold his soul so he could play guitar. IV. Or so the story goes. To hear Son … Read More
We Have the Technology to Reverse Climate Change; What We Need Are the Stories
One of the biggest solutions to climate change is right beneath our feet, literally, and it’s time to spread the word.
Earth Day 2020: Endless Summer
This year, in honor of Earth Day 2020, I’m sharing a new poem and a creative writing prompt. The poem is called “Endless Summer,” and in it, I’m attempting to grapple with the enormous differences between how I’ve seen the season of summer, growing up, and the way I’ve begun to see it, in the face of climate change. In … Read More
