It remains an honor for 1455 to partner with and support the Virginia Festival of the Book (which officially kicks off today: check out the complete schedule of events here).
Here’s the pre-event blurb:
Ron Hogan (Our Endless and Proper Work) and Lisa Tener (The Joy of Writing Journal) join in conversation with Sean Murphy about the joys and values of a consistent practice of writing in your life. This discussion is for anyone looking to take up writing, or be more inspired with current writing practices, not necessarily for publication, but because it can help you lead a happier, more whole and engaged life.
Here’s my brief recap:
This conversation (and these two books, which I heartily endorse for writers at all levels of experience and expertise) is particularly timely, since we increasingly inhabit a literary landscape that focuses on the business of writing, often at the expense of the writing process itself. (This is not to suggest understanding the business-y aspects of a changing industry are not critical, but even the most savvy social media expert will find little fulfillment if the process of creativity itself is not the foremost consideration. Incidentally, while there are few shortcuts there are some secret weapons, and my number one go-to for all matters pertaining to the business of writing is the invaluable and awesome Jane Friedman.) Today, writers are reminded that they’re largely on their own when it comes to PR, marketing, and all aspects of promotion; there are already warehouses full of books about grappling with these matters. Ron and Lisa take us back to the future by emphasizing the need to find joy in the craft of writing.
Joy? Yes. Whether one is learning to master a musical instrument or excel as an athlete, if one’s not deriving some personal satisfaction, it begs the question: what are the end goals? (Spoiler alert: if it’s fame or fortune, there are definitely faster and easier ways to become wealthy or notorious.) Neither of these authors are preaching shallow platitudes; rather, they’re suggesting that there are myriad ways to jumpstart creativity and seek ways to connect an endeavor filled with solitude, rejection, and failure (and, always, revision!) with one’s practical and spiritual aspirations. To be certain: these are very practical guides, reminding us that “the writing process is a series of small victories.”
I encourage you to check out the video, and I’ll leave you with wise words from Lisa:
If you find yourself asking “Who am I to be so bold?” ask instead, “Who am I to withhold my creative gifts?”
About Ron Hogan:
Writer and editorial consultant Ron Hogan helps readers develop an ongoing writing practice as an end in and of itself, not a means to publication. Ron has been an industry analyst for a media website, a digital marketing director for a publishing house, a freelance book reviewer, and an acquiring editor for a startup book publisher. He is the founder of the literary site Beatrice, and creator of a popular newsletter about developing your writing practice, “Destroy Your Safe and Happy Lives. Learn more about Ron at beatrice.com
About Lisa Tener:
Awarded the Silver Stevie for “Mentor/Coach of the Year” by the Stevie Awards for Women in Business, Lisa Tener is an inspiring book writing and publishing coach, author of the bestseller The Joy of Writing Journal: Spark Your Creativity in 8 Minutes a Day, entrepreneur and speaker. As “The Creativity Catalyst” Lisa Tener is known for helping visionaries, experts, entrepreneurs, creatives, healing professionals, therapists, coaches and people from all walks of life access their juiciest ideas, write in a state of flow and do their finest work. Lisa contributed a chapter to The Creativity Workbook for Coaches and Creatives (edited by Eric Maisel and published by Routledge). Her most recent book The Joy of Writing Journal is a hot new release in 5 Amazon categories and bestseller in 3! As a Book Coach, Lisa Tener helps with all aspects of book writing: from creating your book concept to writing and editing. She has specialized expertise with helping authors write successful book proposals. Learn more at lisatener.com
