I became a published songwriter in 2015, but until this past June, I'd never had any of my prose writing published. Then, I was fortunate to have two of my personal essays accepted for publication in Centered: The magazine of personal stories. Even better, I was also offered the position of managing editor for the publication. I am honored to have my essays included in this magazine amongst the incredible work of so many talented writers.
The Stories Behind the Essays
My first personal essay discussed the way I dealt with my chronic health issues while on an ATV tour last year through the Taku River Tlingit First Nation territory (in British Columbia, Canada). I felt that the best way to tell this true story was by describing myself as a steampunk vampire, which I am :-)
My second personal essay recounted my thoughts at a pivotal moment during my 2016 visit to the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site. The entire experience was intense and has had a lasting impact on me (as it should).
I started writing "The Unknown That Awaits" (the first essay) a year ago in July 2018, almost as soon as I returned from my trip. My instructor in my writing workshop (and founder of Centered magazine) encouraged me to share my experiences. I will always be grateful to her for this gentle and beautiful support. The piece went through many revisions, and I learned a lot about the devotion to the process of writing.
"Take the Photograph" poured out of me after I heard Eva Schloss, a Holocaust survivor and Anne Frank's stepsister, speak at an October 2018 event in Connecticut shortly after the attack at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh.
I have a lot more to tell about writing both of these pieces. I promise to share more in future posts. Thanks for reading!
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