Writers on Writing

Sarah Manguso and Elan Mastai on Writers on Writing

Posted February 10 2017 by Barbara DeMarco-Barrett

Poet and essayist Sarah Manguso joins Marrie Stone to talk about her latest book, 300 Arguments.  She discusses the importance of writing and journaling through dangerous political times, the role of mothering in her writing life, how the state of the world impacts her work, and more.

In the second half, Elan Mastai shares his debut novel, All Our Wrong Todays.  He talks about creating a science fiction world, the role of identity in his own life, and how it’s mirrored in the novel.

Download audio.

(Broadcast date: January 25, 2017)

Reed Karaim and Luis Alberto Urrea on Writers on Writing

Posted January 30 2017 by Barbara DeMarco-Barrett

Novelist Reed Karaim joins Marrie Stone to talk about his novel, The Winter in Anna.  Reed discusses the unknowable nature of characters and human beings, and the unconventional yet effective approach he chose to reveal character.  He talks about writing his hometown landscape, his elegy to the newspaper industry, and bringing minor characters to life.

In the second half, Luis Alberto Urrea joins to talk about his latest story collection, The Water Museum.  Luis shares his funny, poignant, very personal, and always heartfelt perspectives on the world and where it’s headed.  And listening to his infectious love of music, lyrics, and language is always inspiring.

Download audio.

(Broadcast date: January 4, 2017)

Lisa Cron on Writers on Writing

Posted January 9 2017 by Barbara DeMarco-Barrett

Lisa Cron, author of Story Genius, published by 10 Speed Press, and I talk about how starting with character (for fiction or memoir) is the key to unfolding the story. If you don’t know your protagonist, who does? And how are you going to write a great story if you don’t know whose story it is? We spend the entire hour together talking about writing. Lisa was an agent, worked for a publisher and as a story consultant for Warner Brothers. She knows her stuff!

Download audio.

(Broadcast date: Dec. 26, 2016)