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.
*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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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? ❤️
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.
Fantastic writing. I totally relate to your feelings about getting "left behind."
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!
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.