"The only real access that I have to my mind is when I'm writing." – Kay Ryan
This global pandemic has changed a lot of my normal routine. And, like so many, I’m struggling at times to stay positive.But I’m also finding golden moments and new favorite companies to support. I thought I’d use today’s post to give a little shout out to those gems that are helping me get through.I’ll start... Continue Reading →
A few days ago, an old college acquaintance posted a conversation she’d had with one of her teenage children. They’re both fans of an author who has had a large gap between books in a series. Their conversation was a joking exchange about tying the writer to a chair until they completed the next book.... Continue Reading →
If you’ve spent any time reading my blog, you know I’m a cheerleader for the things I love. When I find some creative work that captivates me, I want to shout it to the world. But I make my recommendations knowing that what interests me may not appeal to others. One of the fantastic things... Continue Reading →
I saw the film “Bohemian Rhapsody” this week. I won't go into the film's flaws or how it mishandled the timeline of Freddie’s life. The film's ending focused on Queen's performance at Live Aid. The concert took place in July 1985, and I was in junior high. I remember watching Live Aid with my mother.... Continue Reading →
On Thursday, the MacArthur Foundation Fellowships (commonly known as the MacArthur Genius awards) were announced. I watch these announcements each year with great interest. These fellowships are often my introduction to the work of filmmakers, activists, and scholars. And, I love seeing the names of writers, poets, and playwrights among the honorees. Especially if I’m... Continue Reading →
I know doom and gloom fill news reports on current events. We have a misogynistic, homophobic, racist, narcissist squatting in the Oval Office like a fly-bloated toad, sliming every surface with his amphibian ooze and poisoning the atmosphere with his expulsions. He’s alienating us from allies, playing dangerous games of chicken with other narcissistic fools... Continue Reading →
Dear Grammy Voters: Listen, I understand the challenge you faced when selecting the album of the year. I’m a huge R&B fan too. For me, it started with my mom’s influence. She loved all the Motown artists, and I grew up hearing the greats from Motown’s golden age. When it comes to music, I go... Continue Reading →
Ruth F. Simon 