Editor’s Note: This post is the third in a series that features former students of mine who have become professional writers. I asked each of them to focus on the topic, “Why I Write.” Today’s post is by Bill Torgerson, whom I first met when he was one of my writing students at Olivet and who is now an award-winning screenwriter, …
Why I Write (by John Small)
Editor’s Note: This post is the second in a series that will feature former students of mine who have become professional writers. I asked each of them to focus on the topic, “Why I Write.” Today’s post features my friend and former student, John Small, whom I met during my early years of teaching at Olivet Nazarene University in the …
Is Literature Necessary? (Part 4) “Consumed by Story”
Note: This is the fourth in a series of posts that will consider the question: What does literature have to offer (if anything) that no other art form or media (such as video games, social media, movies, TV shows, etc.) can match? To view the first post in this series, scroll down or click here. To view the second post, scroll down or …
Is Literature Still Necessary? (Part 3) “Disrobing Its Allure”
Note: This is the third in a series of posts that will consider the question: What does literature have to offer (if anything) that no other art form or media (such as video games, social media, movies, TV shows, etc.) can match? To view the first post in this series, scroll down or click here. To view the second post, scroll down …
Is Literature Still Necessary? (Part 2) “Literary Labor”
Note: This is the second in a series of posts that will consider the question: What does literature have to offer (if anything) that no other art form or media (such as video games, social media, movies, TV shows, etc.) can match? To view the first post in this series, scroll down or click here. Literary Labor by Bethany Wagner, …
You Will Have to Neglect Something: Make Your Choice
I used to think that if only I could get organized enough and follow the right disciplines, I could find a way to fulfill my goals and obligations in my personal and professional life without having to leave work undone or relationships unsatisfied. I no longer believe that. I now believe that time and energy are so limited that I …
Creativity: Leave Time for the Unknown
Like many people I know, I am pressed to squeeze writing into my schedule in the midst of many other responsibilities and distractions. To get anything done, I create a to-do list and attack it at the start of the day. The more items I get checked off, the more successful I feel. At some point I discovered that this …
Why Write Books at All? A Case in Favor of It
Last week I offered a case against writing books in this new era. This week I want to give some reasons for continuing to write in spite of the obstacles that stand in the author’s way. Here are some things that keep me writing: 1. I Want to Play. Picture a Little League baseball team. Twelve players are on the …
Why Write Books at All? A Case Against It
Is writing books still worth the effort? I know writers at every level who are asking that question, from new writers I meet at writers conferences to authors with multiple published books. This week I will make a case against writing a book, and next week I will make a case in favor of it. Please jump in with your …
On the Necessity of Cultivating a Secret Life
When people hear of someone having a “secret life” or “secret self,” their first impression is probably negative. They might think of someone having an affair or extorting money from his company. They might think of a politician using secret funds to hide and mistress and a baby. But a secret life—or lives—doesn’t have to mean hiding something illicit. I …