I applied the Bowie method…

A lesson in writing and life: I cut huge chunks out of a discarded project and remixed it; the result was magic.

I applied Bowie’s method of cutting up a work and mixing up the pieces with a novel I had started and quit on. I had gotten to Chapter 4 and knew in my heart that it wasn’t my next novel. It didn’t grip me the way it needs to.

Several months later, I applied Bowie’s method to this trashed novel and created something so entirely new in the process that it was unrecognizable from the original project. And to be clear - the original project was both trashed and trash. I point this out only to emphasize that the fact I found something salvageable, something I can really be proud of, out of what had been junk is really exciting for writers. It’s exciting writing stuff that I would highly recommend.

For Insider, I wrote about earning a film degree I never “used,” as well as my adventure in homeschooling.

And then over on the Arrogant Baker blog, I shared my homesick guava pastelitos recipe and ideas for Mabon (the Fall Equinox).

Reading: I’m trying to get in the mood for fall and started Practical Magic; I’ve never seen the movie either but have always wanted to. After I watch the movie, I’ll report back whether or not the book is better.

Watching: I started The Girlfriend on Prime and was admittedly jarred when it switched perspectives, much like in The Affair. I absolutely love thinking about how a situation can be experienced so differently among people.

Listening: I do not need to try to get in the mood for fall; I was kidding. I have been ready for fall; here’s the spooky playlist I have already made for this year’s Halloween.

The Yale Review is accepting pitches and submissions until September 30th. Is it childish of me to immediately think of Rory as the editor? I can’t help it. But in all seriousness, it would be a dream to get published in The Yale Review, so if you do, let me know and I’ll share it here.

Oh - the prompt: What would you pitch Rory (or Doyle) as editor?

Write on,

Ashley