As writers, we know rejection is part of the writing life and normally I don’t dwell on it or let it affect my confidence. But right now it feels good to take a step back and redirect my attention to something that is more of a boost - or a different kind of boost - to my creativity. Right now, that boost is reading craft essays for Reckon Review. I won’t deny that several recent rejections of my submitted work may have a little to do with this shift in my attention, this need to focus on an alternate feeling of reward.
Being involved with the creation of an essay written by another writer has many positives. I learn so much from these accomplished writers and, to be honest, there is often very little editing that needs doing so I get to be a cheerleader. I get to read their essays first, luxuriate in creative communication and lived experience, sometimes suggest expanding or minimizing, but always, always I get to support their work. I get to share their essays on social media. The best part of social media and the internet is being able to share writing that, in times past, was limited to the few who could afford (or even know about ) print-only media.
But I think that right now, we are at something different that I’ve never seen. It’s a pioneering time, because there is no other time in history like right now. And that’s what makes it unique. It’s not unique because we have like Renaissance style artists, It’s unique because the people… it is the time of the people. Because technology has really democratized self-expression. Instead of a handful of people making their own records or writing their own songs,everybody can write them. — Patti Smith in “Advice to the Young”
I love the above video interview with Patti Smith and her take on technology which is applicable to all of the arts, including creative writing, reading, and reading about writing. All kinds of information is at our fingertips and we all have a platform to share what is meaningful to us. It’s meaningful to me to be in a supportive position for the writers who willingly share their expertise and personal stories with the world, really. The day before publication I hold their words in my metaphorical hands like a treasure chest full of jewels about to be opened. Prepare to be awed.
Today’s craft essay is by Sandra K. Barnidge, a regular columnist for Reckon Review. Here is a link to Wind and Root, the home for all our craft essays.
Photo by Etienne Girardet on Unsplash
Very good piece Charlotte. Makes a person 'think'...