The Fairest Writer

The Fairest Writer offers writing advice, reflections, and community insights by Meredith Talusan and collaborators. It emphasizes flexible writing routines, community and networking, creativity in different environments, personal growth, and resilience. The Substack discusses uncertainty, perseverance, and support systems to improve writing skills and experiences.

Writing Techniques Community and Networking Personal Growth Literary Events Creative Processes Cultural and Social Issues

The hottest Substack posts of The Fairest Writer

And their main takeaways

Five Weeks Writing on a Boat

139 implied HN points • 21 May 24
📚 Literature Writing Residencies Creativity Art Personal Experience
  1. Changing your writing space can really boost your creativity. Working in a cozy place like a boat helped focus on detailed work.
  2. Residencies like the Leighton Independent Residency provide a mix of independence and community. You can choose when to interact with others while still enjoying social moments.
  3. Being in a stunning natural environment, like Banff National Park, adds to the experience. Hiking and seeing wildlife adds a nice break from writing.

Write Every Day... Or Don't!

259 implied HN points • 13 Mar 24
📚 Literature Writing Tips Creative Process Literary Analysis Productivity Author insights
  1. Writing every day can help you stay connected to your projects, but it's not always practical for everyone. Finding a balance that works for you is key.
  2. It's important to listen to your own creative energy and not force yourself to write when you don't feel inspired. Taking breaks can actually help renew your motivation.
  3. Setting rigid goals like daily word counts can hurt your creativity. It's better to focus on nurturing your ideas rather than feeling pressured by deadlines.

Notes on Memoir Structure

259 implied HN points • 20 Feb 24
📚 Literature Memoir Writing Non-fiction Creative Process Storytelling
  1. Start writing by keeping a memory journal. Write down significant moments to help you remember what to include in your memoir.
  2. Listen to your material while writing. The best structure for your story often comes from how you feel about your experiences, so be flexible and adjust as needed.
  3. During revisions, be willing to cut parts that don't fit. Always ask if you can make it better, instead of just wanting to be done with it.

Publication Is Not the Point of Writing

2 HN points • 17 Sep 24
📚 Literature Writing Fiction Education Creativity Publishing
  1. Writing should be about improving your skills, not just getting published. Focusing on growth makes you a better writer.
  2. Publication is just an indicator of your writing ability, like a chess rating. It’s not the main goal; getting better is.
  3. It's important to write for yourself and learn, rather than stress about where you’ll get published. The right opportunities will come when you improve.

My Books of Summer

19 implied HN points • 16 Jul 24
📚 Literature Books Authors Genres Writing Workshops
  1. There are exciting lectures and workshops happening in Chicago related to art and writing. These events focus on practical skills like embracing failure in creative work.
  2. Summer reading can be slow, but there are some standout books to explore. Titles like 'Housemates' and 'Tehrangeles' offer unique perspectives on art and culture.
  3. 'Refuse to Be Done' is a helpful resource for writers. It encourages persistence and improvement, showing that good writing often comes from the willingness to keep working.
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Why Writers Need Each Other

179 implied HN points • 13 Sep 23
📚 Literature Mentorship Workshops
  1. Writers benefit greatly from connecting with each other. Being part of a community can boost not only their careers but also their overall happiness.
  2. Networking doesn't have to be stressful. Forming relationships with fellow writers often happens naturally and can lead to valuable support and opportunities.
  3. Teaching and learning from others is important. Making friends with writers at all levels provides joy and insight, helping everyone grow in their writing journeys.

It's My Birthday!

139 implied HN points • 26 Jun 23
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Fiction Poetry Literary culture
  1. It's someone's birthday and they are using it as an opportunity to support Electric Literature. They believe literature is important and can help people during tough times.
  2. Electric Literature needs small donations to keep going, especially as many literary venues are closing. These donations help nurture new talent and make writing accessible.
  3. The writer is proud of their work with Electric Literature and emphasizes that grassroots support from the community is essential for continuing to promote literature.

How a Story Gets Written

119 implied HN points • 06 Jun 23
📚 Literature Fiction Nonfiction Writing Memoir Artistic Process
  1. Being curious about your art can spark new ideas. It's important to explore different styles and inspiration to grow as a writer.
  2. Sometimes a story can come out really quickly, almost like a burst of energy. Other times, it takes a lot of time and changes to get it just right.
  3. Both quick and slow stories have value. The key is to keep exploring your creativity, no matter how long it takes.

Post-MacDowell Blues

79 implied HN points • 17 May 23
🎭️ Culture Art Writing Creativity Experiences Community
  1. Going to MacDowell was a big deal and helped kick-start the writing process. The quiet environment allowed for focused work, especially since the author was isolated due to COVID restrictions.
  2. A snowstorm disrupted work but ended up being a bonding experience with other artists. The community aspect became more important, leading to fun events and valuable discussions.
  3. The author not only made progress on their book but also learned a lot from other artists. Conversations and interactions inspired new ideas and reflections on their creative journey.

From "Modern Love" to Selling a Memoir

79 implied HN points • 26 Jan 21
📚 Literature Memoir Essays Creative Writing Survival Cultural Commentary
  1. Writing about personal struggles can help others understand their own issues. Facing uncomfortable topics can lead to healing and growth.
  2. Survival training teaches us to trust ourselves and understand our needs. It's about more than just food; it's about connection to nature and community.
  3. Exploring our past and the relationships we have with family can help us find our true selves. Nature can be a way to reconnect with who we are and what we really need.

Announcing Our Fall '22 Workshop Series

19 implied HN points • 24 Aug 22
🚌 Education Workshops Writing Reading Discussion Craft
  1. The Fall '22 Workshop Series is focused on the writing process and features special guest authors. It's a great opportunity for writers of all levels to learn and engage.
  2. Each week, the workshops cover different topics, from starting a writing journey to drafting and revising work. Participants will read essays and discuss their insights.
  3. The workshops are free and conducted on Zoom, making it accessible for everyone interested in improving their writing skills.

Fiction Techniques for Memoir (and Vice-Versa) Workshop Next Week!

0 implied HN points • 20 Oct 20
📚 Literature Writing Memoir Fiction Workshops Craft
  1. There's a workshop coming up that teaches how to use fiction writing techniques in memoirs. It's a great opportunity to learn and improve your writing skills.
  2. A writing session is happening soon for people who want to write together. It’s a nice way to be productive in a group setting.
  3. A new empathy handbook has been released, and it could make a thoughtful gift for family members, especially during the holidays.

Book to Screenwriting Workshop Next Week!

0 implied HN points • 06 Oct 20
🎭️ Culture Literature Film Writing Art Media
  1. There's a workshop coming up that focuses on turning books into screenplays. It's a great chance to learn about adapting stories.
  2. Thomas Page McBee, who wrote a book and also works on a popular TV show, will be leading the workshop. His experience will provide valuable insights.
  3. Anyone interested can register to join the workshop online. It's happening next Tuesday evening.

In the meantime, a Zoom Writing Session!

0 implied HN points • 13 Jul 20
📚 Literature Writing Books Community Workshops Reading
  1. There are Zoom writing sessions available for people looking to write together. These sessions help you stay motivated and connect with others.
  2. The first writing session is on July 14th at 5 PM Pacific time. It will start with introductions and then allow 30-40 minutes of focused writing time.
  3. At the end of the hour, everyone will share what they worked on. It's a great way to get feedback and encourage each other.

Agent Workshop + Event Reminders

0 implied HN points • 24 Jun 20
📚 Literature Memoir Author Events Trans issues Racial Justice
  1. There's a workshop tonight with agent Seth Fishman on Zoom. It's a great chance to learn more if you haven't registered yet.
  2. The author is wrapping up a virtual tour and has some exciting discussions lined up about memoirs and racial justice with notable authors.
  3. There’s a focus on sharing challenges faced by Black trans individuals and the importance of racial equality in upcoming conversations.

Things That Matter

0 implied HN points • 15 Jun 20
🎭️ Culture Writing Activism Identity Publishing Community
  1. Writing workshops can help writers, especially those from marginalized groups, improve their skills and find support.
  2. Helping others matters; sharing resources like books can make a big difference for those in need, especially during tough times.
  3. It's crucial to remember and support Black trans lives, acknowledging the struggles and injustices they face in society.

No Words, Just Space

0 implied HN points • 02 Jun 20
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Writing Community Justice Expression
  1. Sometimes, it's better to listen than to talk. Creating space for others to share their thoughts can be more valuable than trying to analyze everything.
  2. It's important to acknowledge that we may not fully understand the experiences of others, especially in matters of deep injustice.
  3. Joining together in discussion can help us learn and grow. Talking with others can give us perspective and support during difficult times.

The Wonder of Writer Friends

0 implied HN points • 19 May 20
📚 Literature Writing Authors Friendship Creativity Publishing
  1. Making friends with other writers is really important. They can help you grow and stay motivated in your writing journey.
  2. It's easy to feel competitive with fellow writers, but it's better to see them as a supportive community. Letting go of jealousy allows for stronger friendships.
  3. Having a group of writer friends can provide emotional support during tough times. They help remind you of your worth, no matter your achievements.

Welcome to the Fairest Newsletter

0 implied HN points • 09 Apr 20
📚 Literature Writing News Advice Communication Education
  1. The newsletter provides free writing advice and updates about the author's work. It's a helpful resource for writers to improve their skills.
  2. It's a way to connect with the author and stay informed about their thoughts on writing.
  3. Readers are encouraged to subscribe and share the newsletter with friends to help grow the community.

Hello from MacDowell

0 implied HN points • 08 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Art Writing Creativity Expression Literature
  1. It's great to apply for writer opportunities without stressing too much. Once you submit your work, focusing on writing itself can help you move on.
  2. Separating your self-worth from your writing can make it easier to handle rejections or delays. Enjoy the creative process without worrying too much about what others think.
  3. Finding ways to distract yourself from the anxiety of waiting for responses can really help. Simple activities like walking or freewriting can reconnect you with your love for writing.

Hi from Millay and Long-Overdue Recording

0 implied HN points • 02 Nov 22
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Workshops Residencies
  1. The author is taking time to focus on their writing during a residency at Millay Arts. They find that limiting internet use helps them be more productive.
  2. One of their stories was nominated for a Pushcart Prize, which they feel grateful for after a long journey moving from nonfiction to fiction writing.
  3. The author encourages others who are exploring new areas in their writing to know they are not alone in their journey.

"Beginning" Workshop Recording + Prompt

0 implied HN points • 19 Sep 22
🚌 Education Teaching Writing Learning Workshops Exercises
  1. Watch the 'Beginnings' workshop recording if you missed the live session. It's available for a month and gives good insights into writing.
  2. A writing exercise involves comparing a general word with a specific synonym. This helps you see how precise language can shape your memories and descriptions.
  3. Take your time with writing exercises and feel free to pause if you need a break. It's important to explore your thoughts without rushing.

On the Impulse to Write

0 implied HN points • 14 Jun 22
📚 Literature Writing Art Publishing Creativity Expression
  1. Writing is a mix of art and business, and it can be challenging. It's important to remember why you started writing in the first place and stay true to that passion.
  2. Early writers often worry too much about fitting into the market. What makes your writing unique is your personal voice and experiences, not just what's popular.
  3. When writing, try to focus less on the outside world and more on your own inspirations. This can help you create more authentic and powerful work.

2022 Inspo: Obsessive Artist Memoirs

0 implied HN points • 04 Jan 22
📚 Literature Memoirs Writing Art Creativity Inspiration
  1. Writing is a long journey, not a quick race. It's important to focus on your own pace rather than comparing yourself to others.
  2. Reading memoirs can help improve your relationship with writing. They can give you new perspectives and inspire you to focus on your craft.
  3. Working hard for personal growth is more valuable than chasing external rewards. Enjoy the process rather than just looking for success.

How to Embrace Your Sh**ty First Draft

0 implied HN points • 01 Nov 21
📚 Literature Writing Creativity Revision Education Workshops
  1. Don't worry about making your first draft perfect. It's okay if it sounds rough; just get your ideas down on paper.
  2. Use creative techniques to keep your writing flowing, like mind mapping or breaking things down into smaller tasks.
  3. Accept that your writing process involves revisions. Embrace the messy first drafts as a step towards creating something great.

PR Is Not a Dirty Word

0 implied HN points • 25 May 21
🎭️ Culture Literature Media Arts Criticism Promotion Identity
  1. Public relations (PR) isn't something to look down on. It's important to promote ideas and works because there are lots of people who will appreciate different things.
  2. It's okay to separate different roles like writing, critiquing, and promoting. Each has its own purpose, and promoting does not lessen the quality of the work.
  3. Building connections with others in PR can be enriching. If you believe in your work, sharing it with the world is just as important as creating it.

On Making Things Up

0 implied HN points • 06 Apr 21
📚 Literature Fiction Nonfiction Writing Editing Workshops
  1. Fiction allows writers to change facts and details, making it more flexible than nonfiction. This freedom can be exciting but also requires adjustment, especially for nonfiction writers.
  2. In fiction, the writer can easily erase and remake details if they don't fit the story anymore. It's all about how well these parts connect to the larger narrative.
  3. Workshops can help writers transition between different styles, like moving from memoir to fiction. Learning from experienced authors can bring great insights into this process.

Find a Way to Fight Today

0 implied HN points • 31 May 20
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice Protests Civil Rights Activism Community Organizing
  1. It's important to take action against injustice, especially for marginalized communities. Sometimes writing isn't enough, and we need to participate in protests.
  2. If you can't join protests, there are other ways to help, like donating to organizations that support protesters.
  3. Working together can help create a safer environment where everyone can be in public without fear.

Writing Together, Even When We're Far Apart

0 implied HN points • 14 Jan 21
📚 Literature Writing Community Isolation Collaboration Online
  1. Writing can be lonely, but it doesn’t have to be. Engaging with others helps us feel connected and supported in our journey.
  2. The online world has made it easier to find writing communities, especially during tough times like a pandemic. Virtual meetups can provide motivation and accountability.
  3. Joining a community can create friendships and shared experiences. It's important to put yourself out there to find the connections you need.

The Power of Writing in Groups

0 implied HN points • 27 Oct 20
📚 Literature Book clubs Creative Writing Motivation Teaching
  1. Writing in groups can really boost your motivation. When you share your writing goals with others, it helps keep you accountable.
  2. Participating in a writing group can lead to real success. Many people have found book deals because of the support and inspiration they got from their peers.
  3. Teaching and sharing ideas with others can enhance your own understanding. By helping others, you also reinforce your own knowledge and spark new ideas.

Come Talk to Some Lifestyle Editors!

0 implied HN points • 22 Sep 20
🎭️ Culture Lifestyle Writing Community Workshops Social media
  1. There's a workshop on lifestyle writing happening soon on Zoom. It's a great chance to learn from experienced editors.
  2. The community is looking for volunteers with skills in graphic design, social media, and fundraising. If you can help, reach out to them!
  3. A weekly newsletter is coming back with writing tips, success stories, and more fun activities for everyone interested in writing.

Writing session this weekend!

0 implied HN points • 20 Aug 20
📚 Literature Writing Reading Publishing Community Workshops
  1. There is a weekend writing session happening Saturday at 2pm ET / 11am PT for anyone who wants to write with others. It's a great way to stay motivated and focused.
  2. Participants can do different types of work, like proofreading or typing, and then share what they accomplished at the end. This helps build a sense of community among writers.
  3. There is also a reading event happening on September 10, and people are encouraged to register early so they won't forget to attend.

It's my birthday today. :)

0 implied HN points • 26 Jun 20
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Community Social justice Personal Reflection
  1. It's a birthday celebration, and there's a reflection on the past month, which was mixed with both chaos and joy. Honoring a birthday can be a time to think about personal growth and community.
  2. Launching a book during tough times has been challenging. There's a recognition that promoting work can be hard when the world is focused on other urgent issues.
  3. Building a community feels like a big gift. Taking a break in July and August is a chance to recharge before continuing to support writers and share ideas in September.

Ask My Agent Anything + Events!

0 implied HN points • 22 Jun 20
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Events Workshops Community
  1. There will be a workshop about finding the right literary agent, making it easier for writers to navigate publishing.
  2. The writer community is going on a short break from workshops to plan for the fall, but they will continue to connect through Facebook and Slack.
  3. Free copies of the book _Fairest_ are being offered to QTPOC people who can't afford it, promoting inclusivity in literature.

Just a few reminders...

0 implied HN points • 17 Jun 20
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Book events Author insights
  1. There's a Zoom workshop called 'How to Pitch as a Minority' happening tonight. It's a good chance for people from marginalized groups to learn about pitching ideas.
  2. Next week, there will be a discussion on finding the right literary agent. It's important for writers to choose an agent that fits their needs.
  3. Support Black authors by buying their books. It's a great way to show appreciation for diverse voices in literature.

Memoir Is Sculpture, Fiction Is Painting

0 implied HN points • 11 May 20
📚 Literature Memoir Fiction Art Creative Writing Personal essays
  1. Memoir is like sculpture; you shape a story from your real life. You start with the material of your experiences and craft them into something meaningful.
  2. Fiction is like painting; you're free to create and imagine without real-life limits. You decide how the story flows and can change things as you go along.
  3. Both memoir and fiction involve creativity, but they ask different skills. Memoir focuses on working with fixed life events, while fiction allows more imaginative freedom.

Why Writing Routines Work

0 implied HN points • 27 Apr 20
📚 Literature Writing Tips Creative Process Personal Development
  1. Having a regular writing routine can help you focus and reduce stress. Find a time of day when you feel most energetic and make that your writing time.
  2. Start with something easy before diving into harder tasks. Freewriting or simple exercises can warm you up for more serious writing.
  3. It's important to take breaks, but set clear plans for when to start and stop. This way, you can recharge without losing track of your writing goals.

How Teaching Can Help Your Writing

0 implied HN points • 15 Nov 21
🚌 Education Teaching Writing Workshops Literature Learning
  1. Teaching can help clarify your own writing challenges. When you teach, you often find answers to problems you're facing in your own work.
  2. Leading discussions can boost your focus and motivation. It makes reading more engaging when you know you'll talk about it with others.
  3. Anyone can teach, no matter their writing level. You can start small, like organizing a book group or sharing ideas with other writers.

Why Writing a Book Is Like Falling in Love

0 implied HN points • 04 May 20
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Authors Narrative Self-Expression
  1. Loving the writing process is more important than just wanting a book published. When you focus on writing for yourself, it makes your work better.
  2. Using personal experiences in your writing can help clarify complex feelings. It’s about expressing your truth rather than trying to fit into someone else's expectations.
  3. If you truly care about your book and enjoy the writing, chances are others will appreciate it too. Writing from the heart helps connect with readers.