For many, the focus of writing is always on the end result, however, the process along the way is where the magic truly happens. Robin Reynolds 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?
Strict lockdowns from the governor. Businesses have closed. Cases are rising.
What are some favorite books you've read during quarantine?
Erosion by Terry Tempest Williams and Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer.
If you haven't been reading, what are some books you're most looking forward to reading?
My to-be read list is irrational and embarrassing. I will never finish.'
Have there been any movies, tv shows, podcasts, etc. that have helped keep you at ease the past few months?
“Anne with an E.” It was beautifully done.
How has the pandemic affected your writing?
In a good way—I have gone deeper with all of my creative work.
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 used fragments of my written work to create visual journals. I'm excited about how this will evolve over time!
If asked ten years from now what the past few months have taught you about being a writer, what would come to mind?
To view writing as a process, not an end result. To just get the words on paper, regardless of whether they are perfect or complete. They will work themselves out later and seed other pieces or projects. The writing is the healing.
Is there anything that excites you about the changes being incited in the publishing world in light of recent events?
Not really. I try to just roll with change.
Is there anything that worries you about the changes being incited in the publishing world in light of recent events?
Not really. I try to just roll with change.
Are you a plotter, pantser, or somewhere in between? Has this changed during the pandemic?
Pantsers forever!
Where is your favorite place to write? Has this changed during the pandemic?
Outdoors. I've done a little less of this but still manage to fit it in.
If you curated a playlist for writing life in the pandemic, what top 5 songs would be on your list?
It would be a playlist of Ludovico Einaudi songs.
Without too many spoilers, what is your favorite poem you've written since the pandemic began?
I wrote one about breaking up with my boyfriend of three years in the middle of the pandemic (not submitted here) that I really love. More than the poem itself, I'm grateful for the revelation that mediocre relationships (or anything else, fill-in-the-blank) are not what I want to settle for. Of course we all know this concept and nod in agreement with the memes that say it but this was a deep down, true to the soul epiphany. It will stick with me.
While the future is just as unknowable as ever, what is something you are most looking forward to this year?
Well, I'd like to get back to dating at some point!
Is there any advice you would give to young writers during this time?
Write regularly. Don't give yourself excuses or judge too harshly. Just practice the process and great things will happen - both in your writing and your life.
ABOUT Robin Reynolds
Robin Reynolds is an artist and writer. She wanders the mountains of New Mexico with a traveling art kit and wildlife reference books in her backpack. Her favorite sound is the silence of twinkling stars.
To learn more, follow Robin and her writing journey at her website and on Instagram.
Thanks for chatting, Robin!
