Having the support of fellow writers to inspire, share resources, and to celebrate with means everything in the all too often solitary world of writing. Aimee DuFresne 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?
We have an evening curfew currently in place. Living in Southern California, we are blessed with the weather and able to dine outdoors, which lends to some degree of normalcy. In my experience, people have been generally respectful, knowing we are all in this together.
What are some favorite books you've read during quarantine?
Glennon Doyle's Untamed, The James Herriot series starting with All Creatures Great and Small.
Have there been any movies, tv shows, podcasts, etc. that have helped keep you at ease the past few months?
Television: “The Miranda Show” for fun and silly laughs. Podcast: “Stephen Tobolowsky Files” (how did I not know either of these existed before?).
How has the pandemic affected your writing?
Yes. At first I wasn't writing much and felt uninspired, even with the extra time I had on my hands. After what felt like many months, my muses returned and new writing projects are blossoming.
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?
Currently working on my first television script, and excited to witness how the characters are unfolding.
If asked ten years from now what the past few months have taught you about being a writer, what would come to mind?
No matter what happens, keep showing up to the page.
Have there been any fellow writers or people in your life who have helped you stay connected during the pandemic?
Yes! My friend and fellow writer Carol Lansen keeps me motivated and accountable to my writing with weekly meetings. Further afield, my fabulous fellow unicorn Tracy Stamper and I keep in touch to keep the our creativity burning, along with sharing appropriate places to submit, and celebrating each other's successes.
Where is your favorite place to write? Has this changed during the pandemic?
My balcony at home, overlooking the mountains in Southern California.
While the future is just as unknowable as ever, what is something you are most looking forward to this year?
The opportunity to do less, and be more.
Is there any advice you would give to young writers during this time?
Keep writing. Write what your soul stirs you to write. It may look like the world is closing down but it's really opening up.
ABOUT Aimee DuFresne
Aimee DuFresne is an avid storyteller, experienced speaker, and author of Keep Going: From Grief to Growth. She follows the creative inspiration within, pairing it with coffee in the morning, wine at night, and has a fierce determination to uncover joy in this wild life.
To learn more, follow Aimee and her writing journey at her website and on Instagram.
Thanks for chatting, Aimee!
