Midweek Notes from a Practicing Writer
Back from #AWP17
Like thousands of other writers, I journeyed to our nation’s capital this past week for the latest gathering of the Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP). And, I suspect also like many others, I’m still “processing” those days.
One definite highlight for me, however, was Thursday evening’s “off-site” event at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. (Fun fact: This panel event originated as an AWP session proposal. Which AWP rejected. Just another reminder that rejection doesn’t necessarily signal “the end.”)
I’m waiting for the video of “Memory Transferred: Voices from the Descendants of Destruction and Displacement” to be posted to the Museum’s YouTube channel. In the meantime, though, I can share one of the event’s photos.

Next Up on the Calendar
Meantime, I’m preparing for another pretty exciting event, happening right here in New York:
More about this one over here.
And Now For Something A Little Different: Two Poems Published by The Sunlight Press
They’re not focused on the Holocaust. In fact, they’re not even particularly “Jewish” pieces. But two poems of mine have just been published over on the beautiful new(ish) site of The Sunlight Press. I hope that you enjoy “Hypothetical Life” and “Ratatouille for One.”
Also, fellow writers: Do take note of The Sunlight Press. You’ll see that the site is carefully curated and maintained. Behind the scenes, the editors are lovely and gracious. And you’ll be paid for your published work. So take a look at what’s going on there, sign up for updates (I have!), and see if you may have something to send in, too.
Remembering the day I asked the guy in Phillie’s Italian market, “How much for just one pepper?” His response was biting: “Whatsa matter witchoo– you live alone?!”
Ratatouille for One sounds delicious.
I was just asked to cook some up!
Erika…Sunlight Press.. and in our eyes you and your efforts are a ray of sunshine
Oh, thank you so much!
Erika, your poems at The Sunlight Press are so very good. At once delicate and substantial. Really satisfying poetry.
Thank you.
I love your two poems, Erika. Charming, comes to mind. But not sentimental. So immediate and true.
I also immensely enjoy your bi weekly posts. They make me feel like I am part of a club of writers with recommended sites for me to send in my work – which is somewhat of a fantasy because I always delay that, rushing on to write the next piece. Thank you for your generosity, Erika.
And thank YOU for your generous comments, Ruth!