writing exercises

Character calls forth writer. Writer calls forth reader. It seems straightforward—but is it? Novelist, filmmaker, and Zen Buddhist priest Ruth Ozeki explores the relationships embedded in every novel and work of fiction.

Publishers Weekly reports independent bookstores experienced a rise in sales over the holidays; editor Christian Wiman announced he is leaving his position at Poetry magazine; the Review Review offers an easy five-step guide to submitting your writing; and other news.

Contributing editor Frank Bures recalls a meeting with the late poet Paul Gruchow during his formative years, a memory that sparks a personal investigation to better understand the stories we tell ourselves in an unconcious attempt to make sense of our lives.

The Morning News collected a large group of writers and asked them their thoughts on the important events of 2012; the Spectator asked its writers which great books they most hate; author Randy Susan Meyers details helpful advice on creating a personalized writing program; and other news.