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

On Rediscovering Your Story

0 implied HN points • 04 Oct 22
🎭️ Culture Identity Storytelling Personal Growth Education Memory
  1. Going back to past experiences can bring up new feelings and insights. We often think we'll feel the same, but surprises can emerge when we revisit those moments.
  2. Reflecting on past experiences can help us understand our growth and change over time. Writing about these moments can give us different perspectives.
  3. Engaging with old memories can spark creativity and inspire new stories. It's helpful to imagine how you'll view these experiences in the future, too.

On Writing Your Memoir Over Email

0 implied HN points • 02 Dec 20
📚 Literature Creative Process Writing Techniques Narrative structure Personal Reflection
  1. Writing a memoir can be harder than expected, requiring craft and focus on narrative. It's not just about telling your story but understanding the characters and what you want the readers to take away.
  2. Getting advice from others in a writing community can help. Focusing on a central question can give your memoir direction instead of trying to cover everything in one book.
  3. Using emails as a writing approach can make the process easier. Treating your writing like letters to someone can help you express your feelings and find your narrative more naturally.

Writing in the Chaos

0 implied HN points • 13 Oct 20
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Activism Journalism Social media Public Opinion
  1. Social media can be a big distraction when trying to focus on long-term writing projects. It's okay to step back from it to focus better on important work.
  2. There's a balance between using your voice for immediate causes on social media and dedicating time to longer writing goals. It's important to find what works for you.
  3. Getting involved in community efforts, like text-banking, can help make a difference while you're working on personal projects. Being active in other ways is also valuable.

Another writing session tomorrow!

0 implied HN points • 27 Jul 20
📚 Literature Writing Reading Narrative Memoir Community
  1. There will be a Zoom writing session tomorrow for those looking to write with a group. It's a great chance to be more focused and share what you've worked on.
  2. The writer is also participating in a reading series at the same time as the writing session. It's a fun opportunity for fans to listen to them read their work.
  3. The writer is enjoying a book about narrative patterns, which is inspiring new ideas for their own writing. They believe exploring different structures can help readers connect with themselves more deeply.

It's Pub Day, Pub Day!

0 implied HN points • 26 May 20
📚 Literature Memoir Promotion Writing Publishing Personal Growth
  1. It's a big day for the author as their book is published, and they're excited to share it with everyone. They hope people will support their work by buying or sharing it.
  2. The author reflects on their journey as a writer and finds joy in the pure love for reading and writing that inspired them in the first place.
  3. They emphasize the importance of promotion and press in a writer's life to help sustain their career, while also expressing a love for helping other writers succeed.
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Come Work With Me! + News

0 implied HN points • 26 Jan 23
📚 Literature Creative Writing Workshops Awards Fiction Nonfiction
  1. The author will be teaching at two in-person writers' conferences this summer. If you're interested in writing, this is a great opportunity to learn from them.
  2. They received a Creative Capital Award for their novel-in-progress, which will help with research and travel for the project. This grant provides financial support and resources for artists.
  3. In the next newsletter, they plan to share tips about handling applications and submissions in the writing world. This could be helpful if you're looking to improve your writing process.

Writing in Hard Times

0 implied HN points • 27 Jun 22
📚 Literature Writing Creativity Social Issues Advocacy
  1. Oppression can motivate creativity, but it can also be distracting. It's important to find a balance between reacting to negative events and focusing on personal creative goals.
  2. Writing during tough times is not only valid but can also serve as a form of resistance. Creating works that highlight marginalized lives can help push against negative forces in society.
  3. It's okay to take time for your writing projects even when the world feels heavy. Protecting your creative space is essential for personal and collective progress.

Revision Notes, Er, Notes on Revision

0 implied HN points • 04 May 22
📚 Literature Writing Tips Creative Process Book Publishing
  1. It's important to get the main idea of your story right before you start revising. If you focus on editing without a solid foundation, you might end up doing extra work later.
  2. When revising, only focus on the parts that will really affect your overall story. Don't waste time on small edits if big changes are needed.
  3. Keep your revisions organized and make it fun! Use different tools and methods to keep your attention, and don't hesitate to set aside parts that aren't working for you yet.

Of Writing and Residencies

0 implied HN points • 15 Mar 22
📚 Literature Writing Residencies Fiction Creative Process Teaching
  1. Residencies can help you break bad habits, like too much screen time, and allow you to reconnect with your creative process. Being in a place without distractions can be refreshing.
  2. Meeting other artists at residencies exposes you to different ideas and collaborations, which can inspire new projects. It's a great way to find motivation and support from fellow creatives.
  3. Residencies boost your self-confidence as a writer. Having your work validated by an official program can help you trust in your skills and artistic direction.

Why Publishing Is Like Dating

0 implied HN points • 14 Dec 21
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Creativity Self-reflection Personal Growth
  1. Focusing on yourself can help in both dating and publishing. When you stop obsessing over finding the perfect match or publication, you might find what you're looking for more easily.
  2. Distractions can slow down your progress. Checking for updates all the time can be similar to waiting for a text from a crush, and it doesn't help you move forward.
  3. Finding happiness within yourself is key. When you feel satisfied with your own work or life, good things often come your way without you having to chase them.

Writing Through the Holidays

0 implied HN points • 29 Nov 21
📚 Literature Writing Creativity Culture Personal Growth Self-help
  1. It's important to balance family time and writing during the holidays. Spending time with loved ones can also help recharge your creativity.
  2. Keeping a short outline of what to write next is helpful. It makes it easier to jump back into your writing after a break.
  3. Finding even a little time to write, like 15 minutes, can keep your project alive. Jotting down ideas in a notebook can also help you remember your thoughts.

Time for New (School) Year’s Writing Resolutions

0 implied HN points • 16 Sep 21
📚 Literature Writing Tips Reading Creative Process Inspiration Work-life balance
  1. Rethink your routine to better suit your needs. Changing how you organize your workweek can help you feel more refreshed and ready to write.
  2. Reading is key for writing. It inspires you and helps solve writing problems, so don’t skip it, even when busy with drafts.
  3. Engage in other activities you love to relax. Hobbies like painting or gardening can calm you and spark writing inspiration.

Don't (Just) Read What's Popular

0 implied HN points • 18 May 21
📚 Literature Reading Writing Authors Inspiration
  1. Don't just stick to the popular authors; explore lesser-known writers too. Finding new voices can really inspire your own work.
  2. Reading small literary journals can help you discover new authors you wouldn't normally pick. It's like a treasure hunt for exciting new stories.
  3. Engaging with emerging writers makes you feel more connected and less like a fan of a big name. It’s a fun way to enjoy literature as if you’re chatting with a knowledgeable friend.

Short Story Workshop Tomorrow!

0 implied HN points • 03 May 21
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Workshops Publishing Storytelling
  1. There's a short story workshop happening soon with author Peter Kispert. It's a great chance to learn about writing fiction and submitting to literary journals.
  2. The workshop is useful for both new writers and those with experience, offering key advice on improving short stories and story collections.
  3. The host has recently developed a passion for short stories and encourages others who feel the same to join the workshop for guidance.

Fairest Writer Spring Workshop Series!

0 implied HN points • 24 Mar 21
📚 Literature Writing Workshops Authors Books Editing
  1. There is a Spring Workshop Series for writers featuring five well-known authors. This series is a great opportunity for writers to learn from experienced professionals.
  2. All workshops are free and held over Zoom, making it easy for anyone to join in. Each session focuses on different aspects of writing, from memoir to PR.
  3. The Lambda Literary Awards will take place on June 1st, and one of the organizers has a memoir nominated in the Trans Nonfiction category. It's an exciting time to celebrate diverse voices in literature.

Writing in a Chaotic New Year

0 implied HN points • 08 Jan 21
📚 Literature Writing Travel Workshops Creativity Personal
  1. Finding a quiet place to write can help reduce distractions, especially when working from home. A change of scenery may spark new ideas and help break bad habits.
  2. It's important to recognize the privilege that comes with traveling, especially during challenging times. Traveling responsibly while following safety protocols is key.
  3. Inviting friends to join you in a writing retreat can be beneficial. Collaborating with others can provide support and motivation to get work done.

Does Being Organized Stifle Creativity?

0 implied HN points • 17 Nov 20
📚 Literature Writing Creativity Organization Productivity Task management
  1. Being organized can actually help writers by reducing anxiety and freeing up mental space for creativity. When you manage your tasks, you can focus better on writing.
  2. Having worldly responsibilities and distractions makes it harder to write, so organization is important for finding time and space for creativity. It’s less about being a 'mad writer' and more about being practical.
  3. This discussion about organization is part of a series aimed at helping writers improve their efficiency and focus. Methods for managing tasks and reducing distractions can enhance both writing productivity and creativity.

September Writing Session + Workshop Preview!

0 implied HN points • 16 Sep 20
🚌 Education Workshops Writing Literature Community Accountability
  1. There are several upcoming writing workshops, including a Lifestyle Editor Panel and a workshop on adapting books into screenwriting.
  2. A monthly writing session is being held for community support and accountability, where writers can focus and then share their progress.
  3. If you're interested, you can register for the writing session and get more details from the coordinators via email.

Talk to Your Friends + Upcoming Events

0 implied HN points • 10 Jun 20
🎭️ Culture Events Literature Friendship Arts Community
  1. Talking to friends is really helpful and can bring a sense of comfort during tough times. It feels nice to reconnect and share thoughts one-on-one.
  2. There are upcoming virtual events featuring conversations with authors, which are great opportunities to learn and engage with important topics. It's exciting to have well-known guests participate.
  3. Marking special moments, like anniversaries, highlights the importance of friendships and community support in our lives. Celebrating those connections can make a big difference.

Forging Ahead Without Sliding Back

0 implied HN points • 07 Jun 20
🎭️ Culture Social justice Community Engagement
  1. The upcoming workshop will focus on building and using online platforms for good and will be recorded for later access.
  2. A recent discussion highlighted the importance of addressing anti-Blackness and shared various resources for non-Black individuals to educate themselves.
  3. Self-care during social change is crucial, and there are resources available to help people rest and recover while advocating for justice.

Just in case you're checking email...

0 implied HN points • 24 May 20
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Memoir Workshops Editing
  1. A plan for writer workshops is in place, aiming to address community needs and offer support. Feedback is being gathered through a survey to make sure everyone benefits.
  2. Freelancers can improve their writing careers by changing their mindset about editing and deadlines. It's helpful to view editors as collaborators and to negotiate rates when necessary.
  3. Sharing success stories, like a writer coming out of retirement, shows the positive impact of workshops on individuals. It encourages others to pursue their writing dreams despite challenges.

I'm Back, This Time With Writing Tips!

0 implied HN points • 20 Apr 20
📚 Literature Writing Tips Memoir Publishing
  1. It's important for writers to build their confidence when pitching to editors. A casual yet professional tone can go a long way in making a good impression.
  2. Writers should clearly separate the topic of their piece from their argument. This clarity helps editors understand the main point and its broader implications.
  3. Pre-reporting can help establish trust with editors, showing you can find sources and provide specific details. It’s a key step in making your pitch strong.

A Writing Routine Recording + Prompt

0 implied HN points • 26 Sep 22
🎨 Art & Illustration Painting Writing Workshops Activities Meditation
  1. Trying new activities, like qi gong or painting, can help your writing improve, even if you don't see immediate results. It's all about experimenting and feeling what works for you.
  2. Painting a still-life can teach you patience and the importance of revision. Just like layering paint, writing can also be improved with time and effort.
  3. Engaging in different activities before writing can change your mindset. By comparing your drafts from different states of mind, you can learn what inspires and affects your creativity.

Rethinking the Beginning

0 implied HN points • 13 Sep 22
📚 Literature Writing Editing Creativity Artistry Education
  1. Starting something new can be really fun and exciting. It's a chance to explore your ideas without too much pressure.
  2. Don't stress about getting the beginning perfect right away. It's okay to write a few openings and see what feels best.
  3. Allow yourself to play with your writing at the start. It can lead to surprises and make the process more enjoyable.

When 'How to Start?' Is the Hardest Question

0 implied HN points • 25 Oct 21
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Creative Process Freelance Storytelling
  1. Starting to pitch your ideas can be really scary, but it's a necessary step for getting published. Don't let fear hold you back from sharing your work with editors.
  2. Rejections are part of the process, and it's important not to take them personally. Every pitch you send is a chance to learn and improve.
  3. The more you pitch, the better you'll get at it. Set small goals and keep trying to generate new ideas to increase your chances of success.

A Paperback Launch on Your Wedding Anniversary

0 implied HN points • 08 Jun 21
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Personal Growth Reflection Relationships
  1. Celebrating events like book launches and weddings can help us reflect on our life's journey. These moments remind us of our achievements and the people who support us.
  2. It's important to focus on daily joys instead of viewing life as a series of milestones. Finding happiness in everyday experiences can lead to deeper satisfaction.
  3. Adjusting our expectations can help us find contentment, especially when plans change unexpectedly. Emphasizing the process of writing or personal growth can make both successes and challenges more meaningful.

An Essay on Craft Books and Fiction

0 implied HN points • 12 May 21
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Writing Essays Craft
  1. Books about writing can deeply impact us based on where we are in life. Sometimes, we only understand their messages when we are ready to hear them.
  2. Writing isn't just about having a clear plan or vision. Exploring unexpected ideas and emotions can lead to more meaningful stories.
  3. Getting into the habit of writing just one sentence can help uncover hidden thoughts and feelings. It allows writers to explore their creativity without being tied to a specific plot.

On Writing Across Mediums

0 implied HN points • 15 Apr 21
📚 Literature Writing Genres Memoir Resources Workshops
  1. Writing across different genres has unique challenges, but there are many lessons to learn that can help improve your skills.
  2. There are valuable resources available for writers, especially for BIPOC, including mentoring collectives and online guides.
  3. Participating in community events, like readings and fundraisers, can connect you with other writers and promote important causes.

Lost in the Woods with Jenna Wortham

0 implied HN points • 30 Mar 21
🎭️ Culture Writing Personal Growth Literature Creativity Narrative
  1. Sometimes, you can get too focused on your goals and forget to take care of yourself. It's important to embrace spontaneity and allow things to happen naturally.
  2. Working too hard doesn't always lead to the best results. Sometimes, letting go and allowing your writing to take its own course can actually make it more fulfilling.
  3. Building friendships with other creative people can help you see things differently and find more balance in your work and life.

The Benefit of (Short-term) Overload

0 implied HN points • 09 Mar 21
📚 Literature Writing Creativity Community Freelancing Self-Improvement
  1. Sometimes taking on too much can lead to personal growth and new skills. It might feel overwhelming, but you can learn a lot from pushing your limits.
  2. Joining supportive communities and collaborating with others can inspire you and help cultivate new opportunities. It's great to be part of a network where everyone encourages each other.
  3. It's important to find balance in your life and know when to let some things go. Focusing on what truly matters to you can lead to a more fulfilling experience.

The Power of the Internet-Free Zone

0 implied HN points • 15 Dec 20
🎭️ Culture Writing Creativity Literature Self-help Art
  1. Creating an Internet-Free Zone in your workspace can help reduce distractions. Pick a spot where you don't use the Internet to focus better.
  2. Moving away from your usual spot when you need to go online can make you more mindful of your Internet usage. This way, you can choose when to connect, instead of doing it mindlessly.
  3. You can even make fun reminders, like wearing a special hat, to remind yourself not to go online. It's a creative way to keep yourself focused!

Come Read and Write With Us!

0 implied HN points • 11 Nov 20
📚 Literature Writing Workshops Memoir Fiction
  1. There are upcoming writing activities and workshops for those interested in writing. It's a chance to connect with fellow writers and explore new techniques together.
  2. One event will be a book discussion group focusing on writing-related books. Anyone is welcome to join, even if they haven't read the book yet.
  3. Another event is a writing session on Zoom where people can write together. It's a good way to stay motivated and get your writing done.