Despite darkness and unknowns, we can find strength in looking toward the brighter moments of life. Elizabeth Reed's essay, "The Picnic Table," explores this notion, and is now available to read in the print collective! Until then, I'm excited to chat about Elizabeth's pages penned in pandemic.
What does the pandemic currently look like in your city?
COVID-19 cases are decreasing in Boston, MA.
What are some favorite books you've read during quarantine?
The Hate You Give by Angela Thomas and The Book of Longings by Sue Monk Kidd.
Have there been any movies, tv shows, podcasts, etc. that have helped keep you at ease the past few months?
We don't watch TV but we watch movies: Parasite, Knives Out, and Bridge Jones Diary.
How has the pandemic affected your writing?
I've had longer uninterrupted blocks of time because I'm not going to concerts or social events.
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?
Working on my memoir, Life with Uli!
If asked ten years from now what the past few months have taught you about being a writer, what would come to mind?
You have to be persistent.
Have there been any fellow writers or people in your life who have helped you stay connected during the pandemic?
Catherine Parnell and Tony Amato.
Is there anything that excites you about the changes being incited in the publishing world in light of recent events?
I'm glad to see more space being made for POC (I am not a POC).
Are you a plotter, pantser, or somewhere in between? Has this changed during the pandemic?
Plotter. No changes.
Where is your favorite place to write? Has this changed during the pandemic?
In my office. No change.
If you curated a playlist for writing life in the pandemic, what top 5 songs would be on your list?
Any piano piece by Chopin.
Without too many spoilers, what is your favorite scene you've written since the pandemic began?
“How the Pandemic Brought Life Back Into Our Living Rooms” (Boston Globe Magazine).
While the future is just as unknowable as ever, what is something you are most looking forward to this year?
Travel, hopefully, after getting vaccinated!
Is there any advice you would give to young writers during this time?
Be selective about where you submit. 1 good match is what you need.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
As a musician, I love exploring the similarities between music and writing.
ABOUT Elizabeth Reed
Elizabeth Reed is an author, musician, political activist and traveler. Her essays have been published in The Rumpus, Entropy, Mothers Always Write, and other journals.
To learn more, follow Elizabeth and her writing journey at her website and on Twitter.
Thanks for chatting, Elizabeth!
