Too often, the world forces us to exist in an all or nothing state of mind. But taking the time for stillness, stargazing, etc. are all integral to a life worth living. Lindsey Heatherly's poem, "roots of our marrow," explores this, and will be available to read January 2021 in the print collective! Until then, I'm excited to chat about Lindsey's pages penned in pandemic.
What are some favorite books you've read during quarantine?
Songbirds & Stray Dogs by Meagan Lucas was my absolute favorite. I've read Ways We Vanish by Todd Dillard, Gravity by Lynne Schmidt, Straight Down the Road by Dan Crawley, and I have a pretty decent stack of more books lined against my bedroom wall that I hope to get to soon!
Have there been any movies, tv shows, podcasts, etc. that have helped keep you at ease the past few months?
I have thoroughly enjoyed “The Great British Baking Show.” “The Office” always helps me tune the world out. My daughter and I also watch “The 100.”
How has the pandemic affected your writing?
Strangely, it has not hindered my progress. I continue to write when I can: after work, after my daughter is in bed, in voice memos on the car ride to work, and phrases typed into the Notes app of my phone. If anything else, it has reminded me how fleeting life is. How we must make today count. Of course I have moments where the words come to a halt. It is then that I refocus, redirect, and rest. I think we need moments of feast and famine when it comes to our writing. I believe those still, reflective moments are what give us the stamina to continue over time.
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 have a few goals up my sleeve! Of course, like everyone else out there, I'd love to create a chapbook or a full-length book of poetry. I also write non-fiction and flash, so I'm open to any sort of creation down the road. No matter what I do, I want it to be in good time. No rushing for me. I will be ready when I'm ready.
If asked ten years from now what the past few months have taught you about being a writer, what would come to mind?
These months have taught me that being a writer does not only include "writing." I think there are deeper complexities, deeper emotions involved within a person who is a writer. When I first began, yes, all I could think about were the words. But what I've found is that my mindset has shifted from "what things should I write about?" to "here is my heart - this is who I am." There is great intimacy within that vulnerability. I think there is great liberation within blasting those walls of expectation down.
Have there been any fellow writers or people in your life who have helped you stay connected during the pandemic?
Yes! I have met so many wonderful, encouraging people on Twitter. It has been my lifeline, for sure. I have made some great friendships with many people. I would feel terrible leaving anyone out, so they all know who they are!
Is there anything that excites you about the changes being incited in the publishing world in light of recent events?
I love the idea that some literary magazines have been promoting expedited and sometimes limited submission times. I love how it happens in real time. You'll see a call on Twitter that subs are open, and you've got an hour or two, and there it is! I think it brings hope to a process that usually takes many months to come to completion.
Are you a plotter, pantser, or somewhere in between? Has this changed during the pandemic?
I most definitely fly by the seat of my pants! I write when I can and submit work when I can. I have many contrasting working parts within my writing, and sometimes I wonder if they will ever connect. I hope they will. I keep waiting for the "idea" to come, the thing I'm meant to create. Until then, I will work on one piece at a time.
Where is your favorite place to write? Has this changed during the pandemic?
I usually write sitting on my bed. It's easy and comfy. The kitchen table is too hard. Give me comfort any day!
Is there any advice you would give to young writers during this time?
Try not to worry about where you fit in the literary community. Write what you want to write. Read even more than you write. Be yourself completely. If you're authentic, editors will notice.
ABOUT Lindsey Heatherly
Lindsey is a writer born and raised in Upstate South Carolina. She has words in or forthcoming with Pithead Chapel, X-R-A-Y, Emrys Journal, Schuylkill Valley Journal, and more. She spends her time at home raising a strong, confident daughter.
To learn more, follow Lindsey and her writing journey at her website and on Twitter and Instagram.
Thanks for chatting, Lindsey!
