About “Moving On: A Memoir”

1. What was your motivation for writing “Moving On: A Memoir”?

My motivation for writing this essay was to explore and reveal my life as a young woman in transition as a chapter in my book-length memoir, NYC: How I Lived It.

2. What challenges—if any—did you have writing your story?

Since it is a story that happened more than 50 years ago, there were challenges in recalling some details, but with creative non-fiction, I was able to fill in some of the blanks. The opening paragraph about the end of a marriage was challenging in determining how to summarize that.

3. What is your favourite line—if any—in “Moving On: A Memoir”

“I drove away in haste to the city of my future, licking the sweet and sour taste on my lips.”

4. What do you want people to walk away with after reading “Moving On: A Memoir”?

I would like readers of all backgrounds and ages to have empathized with the characters and to applaud this story of a young woman who chose to express her sexuality and had the courage to make major changes in her life. 

Reading

1. What are you currently reading?

The Emperor of Gladness by Ocean Vuong and The Lost Painting by Jonathan Harr

2. Do you have a favourite book? If so, what is it?

Too many to cite.

3. What is your favourite poet or author, if any?

Jhumpa Lahiri and Elizabeth Strout

4. Do you gravitate towards reading genres outside the ones you write?

I occasionally read memoirs, but I prefer realistic novels and books of short stories. I also read books about art and artists.

Writing

1. Why do you write?

Writing is immensely gratifying. I especially enjoy re-writing. Writing allows me to enter the world of my own making. Writing challenges my intellect and offers me a peaceful state of mind.

2. What do you love about being a writer?

I can do it anywhere. At home, on the train, on a park bench, in a café. I enjoy sharing what I’ve written with other writers and friends, too. I appreciate reading my colleagues’ writing in exchange. Sharing work in a small group with gifted writers is a worthwhile endeavor for me.

3. What time of the day do you write, and do you have a writing routine?

I do not have a writing routine. I write at different times of day, but not every day, when I’m in the mood.

4. Where do you get your ideas from?

I get my ideas from my own life experiences and sometimes from the people I encounter and know. I occasionally feel inspired by interesting subjects I’ve read about in The New York Times.

5. How long does it take you to write your projects?

A 1000-word essay in first draft is written in one sitting (an hour?), then I revise, which doesn’t take long, but then I get feedback from peers, and weeks may pass before I complete the work. Sometimes months may pass before I tackle a rewrite. I usually work on personal essays, sometimes short fiction, and short plays simultaneously. 

6. What advice would you give to other authors/writers/poets?

If writing brings you joy, do it. But don’t assume it won’t require hours of practice and reading lots of good writing. If you want to get published, it will take much effort. I also recommend finding a group of strong writers you trust and meeting with them regularly. Writing courses can be helpful, but they may break the bank, so be sure to invest in one that has received lots of positive feedback and aligns with your needs. 

7. What project(s) are you currently working on?

I have begun writing a series of 1000-word personal essays. I hope to have six finalized by the end of the year. I am also finalizing a few short plays and plan on writing a few new ones.