I was never popular, never pretty, could only sing just so well, but I could write. I wrote better than anyone and it was always something I didn’t feel had much value until now.
This is to say: You’re here! Doing the damn thing! The bravery of writing and posting and continuing to do so on our little islands is extraordinary. The world is right here where you are. In every profession and sport, there are the superstars but there is still a slice meant for you and what you’re giving to the world. You have yourself, your hands, your intellect and they are something.
Chevanne, I am genuinely so moved by that. We are doing the thing. We have value. Thank you for the work you're putting out into the world and the tremendous support you show other writers. It means the world.
*There is a massive appetite for genuine writing. Work that doesn't come off as manufactured, as the Drift might. Maybe it's a giveaway for how old I am, but I have an affinity for gritty/raw/DIY writing and a distaste for glossy pretentiousness. Your work is valuable and there is 100% a place for it. I'm excited to read the next 20.
*Lorenz can be polarizing--and I know she has a habit of stepping on rakes-but no one deserves the amount of shit thrown her way.
So appreciate this take. I am also biased toward DIY writing--and the community I've found on Substack is truly unparalleled, which makes this my very favorite place to publish.
You're right that Lorenz is extremely polarizing. Don't agree with everything she says, but I do think the branding discussion (and the resistance to it!) is very telling about the state of journalism at the moment.
Damn, it feels good to hear someone package their feelings of inadequacy in a fuckton-more-than-adequate way. I’ll echo what everyone is saying: these lit mags that spawn from academia and privilege produce writing that is stimulating, but always feels derivative to me. Great writing comes from the dirt as much as the ivory tower. Let’s keep making audacious, queer, independent beauty, huh? ❤️
I was moved by the Swanson article as well. He serves as a great example of how to play the game while not playing the game, and his book Lost In Summerland was a really important read during a hard time for me last year.
It's the worst feeling! I just have to remind myself that a) there is no timeline & b) some people have had connections/opportunities/wealth that have made it possible for them to do things younger.
What an excellent read. I felt something similar toward Slate -- and its promise to deliver “trustworthy analysis” -- that’s a huge promise! I appreciate this perspective so much!
I hear that! Your comment reminds me of an article Matthew Yglesias wrote for his Substack on the death of the slate pitch and how so many publications are losing their personality and publishing all the same stuff. A promise like "trustworthy analysis" is so hard to live up to! https://www.slowboring.com/p/slatepitch?s=r
This is very relatable for people of any age. I am in my 50s, by the way. You have just started your journey and are not left behind. I am just starting to write on Substack, for goodness sakes!! Your writing is great, your ideas are timely. You are already successful because you have out put yourself out there. Never fear. You have your whole life ahead of you. Congrats on #20!!
Just wanted you to know that I mentioned your Substack as a "special note" this week. You are a great writer. I wish I had more followers for you, but any amount helps.
I was never popular, never pretty, could only sing just so well, but I could write. I wrote better than anyone and it was always something I didn’t feel had much value until now.
This is to say: You’re here! Doing the damn thing! The bravery of writing and posting and continuing to do so on our little islands is extraordinary. The world is right here where you are. In every profession and sport, there are the superstars but there is still a slice meant for you and what you’re giving to the world. You have yourself, your hands, your intellect and they are something.
Chevanne, I am genuinely so moved by that. We are doing the thing. We have value. Thank you for the work you're putting out into the world and the tremendous support you show other writers. It means the world.
+1
A few random thoughts:
*There is a massive appetite for genuine writing. Work that doesn't come off as manufactured, as the Drift might. Maybe it's a giveaway for how old I am, but I have an affinity for gritty/raw/DIY writing and a distaste for glossy pretentiousness. Your work is valuable and there is 100% a place for it. I'm excited to read the next 20.
*Lorenz can be polarizing--and I know she has a habit of stepping on rakes-but no one deserves the amount of shit thrown her way.
*Here for the nachos.
So appreciate this take. I am also biased toward DIY writing--and the community I've found on Substack is truly unparalleled, which makes this my very favorite place to publish.
You're right that Lorenz is extremely polarizing. Don't agree with everything she says, but I do think the branding discussion (and the resistance to it!) is very telling about the state of journalism at the moment.
Nachos forever.
Damn, it feels good to hear someone package their feelings of inadequacy in a fuckton-more-than-adequate way. I’ll echo what everyone is saying: these lit mags that spawn from academia and privilege produce writing that is stimulating, but always feels derivative to me. Great writing comes from the dirt as much as the ivory tower. Let’s keep making audacious, queer, independent beauty, huh? ❤️
Wow this makes me want to cry. Thank you thank you. For this encouraging comment, for your exceptional work. <3
Thanks for sharing this thoughtful piece!
I was moved by the Swanson article as well. He serves as a great example of how to play the game while not playing the game, and his book Lost In Summerland was a really important read during a hard time for me last year.
Oh I haven't read Lost in Summerland but I'm adding it to my list right now!
Fantastic writing. I totally relate to your feelings about getting "left behind."
It's the worst feeling! I just have to remind myself that a) there is no timeline & b) some people have had connections/opportunities/wealth that have made it possible for them to do things younger.
What an excellent read. I felt something similar toward Slate -- and its promise to deliver “trustworthy analysis” -- that’s a huge promise! I appreciate this perspective so much!
I hear that! Your comment reminds me of an article Matthew Yglesias wrote for his Substack on the death of the slate pitch and how so many publications are losing their personality and publishing all the same stuff. A promise like "trustworthy analysis" is so hard to live up to! https://www.slowboring.com/p/slatepitch?s=r
This is very relatable for people of any age. I am in my 50s, by the way. You have just started your journey and are not left behind. I am just starting to write on Substack, for goodness sakes!! Your writing is great, your ideas are timely. You are already successful because you have out put yourself out there. Never fear. You have your whole life ahead of you. Congrats on #20!!
Thank you for saying that! The most important thing we can do is keep writing. Eager to follow along with your journey.
Just wanted you to know that I mentioned your Substack as a "special note" this week. You are a great writer. I wish I had more followers for you, but any amount helps.
Thank you! You are so right that any amount helps. I really appreciate the support :)