NEWS YOU CAN USE. Maybe you saw these stories. Maybe you missed them, but it seems to me that these are among the pieces I’ve read this week that might elicit some form of short memoir – an op-ed, or personal essay – from you. Once or twice a week I’ll bring you up to date on news pieces I find provocative. So far, this week is rich with material.
Here are some I liked:
- The closing of a famous shop
- The high price of a ubiquitous medical procedure gone bad
- Hatred, as portrayed on the head of an innocent child
- The ongoing battle over religion in public schools
- You’ve heard of drunk dialing. How about online shopping under the influence?
- The real price of war
Surely you have something to say using one of these news stories as your news peg.
Looking for inspiration or guidance on how to write a personal essay? Look at my categories. There are categories for NPR essays, parenting essays, and several other topics. All of the pieces there have been published, or have aired on the radio. Have a look. If those don’t work, see the calendar on my homepage for more inspiration. And write on.
RobertJulianBraxton says
I have, I did, cannot post the specifics here or any place on the internet except already having sent to the newspaper considering publication. First “nibble” in a long, long time (must be the economic downturn as well as the shifting of technology). Thanks for the pointers.
marion says
Hi, Robert. Yipppppeeee. And you’re welcome. Let us know how the deal rolls out, please.
RobertJulianBraxton says
Wash Post: http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/left-lane-dawdlers-unite/2011/12/27/gIQAPgVFNP_story.html
marion says
Good call, Robert. Thanks for passing it along. I love seeing your letter to the editor here as an example for others of one way to respond to the news. Write on.
Shirley says
Marion, you have unearthed some great ways to help freelancers and other writers. This post and your calendar are great tools and carve out a nice niche for you online.
Would love to come to a book signing or reading or class in NYC. Will you be doing any of the above before the end of May?