Sometimes the process of committing to writing a longer work can seem overwhelming, especially during the difficult days of the last year. In these moments, capturing the ephemeral feelings into shorter works can be the greatest escape from reality. Katherine Flannery Dering discusses just this and more in today's chat about her pages penned in pandemic.
What does the pandemic currently look like in your city?
Low key—masks and plexiglass barriers at the grocery store. more walkers up and down the cul de sac.
What are some favorite books you've read during quarantine?
I've read some good reads from the library, but their titles escape me now. Where the Crawdads Sing was great. I've reread some poetry collections by Ellen Bass, Marie Howe, and Billy Collins.
Have there been any movies, tv shows, podcasts, etc. that have helped keep you at ease the past few months?
Bingewatching on Netflix. But too often drawn into the political drama and COVID hand-wringing.
How has the pandemic affected your writing?
It's hard to focus on longer works. I'm doing poetry, prose poems, and an occasional lyrical short story.
Are there any projects you are excited to keep working on? If so, can you give us any details (no spoilers please!) about your project?
I hope many of these poems will form a poetry book. The two most recently written stories may become part of a collection.
If asked ten years from now what the past few months have taught you about being a writer, what would come to mind?
It has kept me company during lonely times.
Have there been any fellow writers or people in your life who have helped you stay connected during the pandemic?
my three writing groups: the Manhattanville MFA community, the critique group of the Pound Ridge Authors Society, and the fellow members of the Katonah Poetry Series.
Where is your favorite place to write? Has this changed during the pandemic?
Kitchen table and my desk—no change.
If you curated a playlist for writing life in the pandemic, what top 5 songs would be on your list?
Yesterday, any ABBA song, Santana Abraxas.
Without too many spoilers, what is your favorite scene / poem you've written since the pandemic began?
Spirit House.
While the future is just as unknowable as ever, what is something you are most looking forward to this year?
Getting vaccinated.
Is there any advice you would give to young writers during this time?
Read others, write a lot, and also read to learn—pick the best words.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
Good luck with the project.
ABOUT Katherine Flannery Dering
Katherine Flannery Dering holds an MFA from Manhattanville College. She has published a memoir, Shot in the Head, a Sister’s Memoir a Brother’s Struggle (2014, Bridgeross). A mixed genre book of poetry, prose, photos and emails, it deals with caring for her schizophrenic brother, and she is an advocate for better care for the mentally ill. Her poetry chapbook is titled Aftermath (2018, Finishing Line Press.) Her work has also appeared in Inkwell, RiverRiver, Tilde, Cordella, and several other literary journals. She serves on the executive committee of The Katonah Poetry Series and lately divides her writing time between poetry and a book of short, feminist tales.
To learn more, follow Katherine and her writing journey at her website and on Facebook.
Thanks for chatting, Katherine!
