Monica > Recent Status Updates

I’m re-reading The Dutch House to focus on its craft. Having recently re-read Tom Lake, I am admiring Patchett’s strong command of narrative and narrative structure.

I’m excited to read this again with a group in a lifelong learning class led by the editor.

The criticism about the pacing is fair—but I do appreciate what they’re discovering.

Attending a marathon reading at Litquake today, 9am to 9pm.

I’m really enjoying the music references—so far, there have been references to Jimmy Rodgers, the Carter Family, the Louvin Brothers—lots of good music.

I start teaching a lifelong learning class on this Monday. I’m curious to see how people react.

“We must hear the truths that others have to tell in addition to being truth tellers ourselves and to acknowledge the risks taken to speak out.”

“And nothing is more fun than launching a transformation with the easy stuff first—office supplies!”

“Even though I study resistance to change, I wasn’t immune to the lure of cool toys over hard work. Is there any problem that a new planner, a computer upgrade, a new productivity system, and a three-hour spree at an online Japanese stationary store won’t solve?
“It turns out that yes, there are a ton of problems these things can’t solve, but planning for transformation is so delicious.”

I’m really enjoying discussing this with the Welty House Slow Reading group. This novel is a good choice for slow reading.

Reading again for the Eudora Welty House book discussion.

“A ghost is like a quilt in that both are made of stories.”

It is odd to finish that McElmurray essay collection and be reading this novel, as much of both of them contemplates the writing life and the nature of grief. Finishing that one and picking this one up, they’re almost in conversation with each other.