Current Reading: The Red Badge of Courage — Stephen Crane
I began submitting to essay and story contests in my pre-teens. In my ("crazy and mostly unaccounted for") 20's, I penned music and social critique for independent weekly magazines.
Fifteen years in social services has had its separate challenges, and working with marginalized populations brings a certain depth and gravity to my work.
In 2011 I began writing again in earnest, penning my first novel. After finishing my second manuscript and beginning the third, I had an epiphany—a "James Baldwin Moment"—that thrilling, validating, and dreadful moment when you realize that telling stories is what you were born to do.
* * *
On a personal (non-writerly) note, I have over fifteen years of social work experience (ten of those years in group homes advocating for people with disabilities). I'm constantly self-examining my place and responsibility to those who have been less fortunate.
I'm a full-time single father of a beautiful daughter. I enjoy playing the drums, finding new chords on my guitar, and cooking, which I'm often called upon to do.
* * *
I'm always seeking out my truth on the blank page, and am incredibly blessed and humbled to do what I do. Thank you for coming to visit with me.
— SMc