Having a community of writers to provide encouragement and support means so much when we're too often faced with our own thoughts and a blank page. Kate Levin 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 number of cases but increasing.
What are some favorite books you've read during quarantine?
Brit Bennett: The Vanishing Half, Tommy Orange: There There, Emma Straub: All Adults Here, Stephen King: On Writing, and Hermione Lee: Virginia Woolf.
If you haven't been reading, what are some books you're most looking forward to reading?
Can't wait for the next Philip Pullman!
Have there been any movies, tv shows, podcasts, etc. that have helped keep you at ease the past few months?
Rewatching all of "The West Wing" and watching new episodes of "Last Week Tonight" helped me survive the election season. The new season of "Great British Baking Show" (sad it's over!). Just started "The Crown"—better late than never. Enjoying "Dash and Lily" and the new season of "This is Us" with my daughter.
How has the pandemic affected your writing?
It's both given me plenty to write about and at times made it harder to focus.
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 am working on a story about an encounter between strangers at an NYC yoga studio.
If asked ten years from now what the past few months have taught you about being a writer, what would come to mind?
It's important to be part of a community of writers who give you feedback and encourage you.
Have there been any fellow writers or people in your life who have helped you stay connected during the pandemic?
Yes—I take a weekly class (now via Zoom) with Laura Zinn Fromm, who attracts wonderfully talented and supportive people to her classes.
Is there anything that worries you about the changes being incited in the publishing world in light of recent events?
Worried about the continued consolidation of publishers.
Are you a plotter, pantser, or somewhere in between? Has this changed during the pandemic?
Somewhere in between (I usually throw myself at the page and then start to plot once I've seen what's there). And no it hasn't changed.
Where is your favorite place to write? Has this changed during the pandemic?
I can write just about anywhere as long as there's a comfortable chair (or bed). I prefer laptop to paper. And no change!
If you curated a playlist for writing life in the pandemic, what top 5 songs would be on your list?
Anything classical (I find it hard to concentrate to anything with words).
While the future is just as unknowable as ever, what is something you are most looking forward to this year?
The inauguration of new president. The vaccine. Seeing my family in person. Being able to attend shows and concerts again. Hugging my friends.
Is there any advice you would give to young writers during this time?
Hang in there—this isn't normal. And it's ok if you feel like you can't get any work done right now--thinking is part of writing.
ABOUT Kate Levin
Kate Levin is a former English professor. During the pandemic she has been writing, playing violin, doing yoga, and cooking new foods like brisket. She just roasted her first turkey, which got good reviews from the critics.
To learn more, follow Kate and her writing journey on Facebook.
Thanks for chatting, Kate!
