Around the Writer’s Table

Interview with Jen Schomburg Kanke (ep. 55)

In this episode, host Gina Hogan Edwards welcomes Jennifer Schomburg Kanke, a poet and writer whose work beautifully intertwines personal history and storytelling. Jennifer shares insights into her creative process, discussing how her Appalachian roots and family narratives shape her poetry. She reads from her latest collection, "The Swellest Wife Anyone Ever Had," which explores themes of identity and resilience through the lens of her grandmother's experiences during the floods in Ohio. The conversation delves into the importance of clear narratives in poetry and the balance between research and creative expression. Jennifer also highlights her journey as a writer, emphasizing the value of practice and immersion in literature. Join us for an inspiring discussion that celebrates the art of storytelling and the power of poetry to connect us to our past and present. Tune in for a rich exploration of creativity and craft!

Year 2024 is a WRAP!

In this episode we reflect on our creative journeys over 2024, sharing insights and lessons learned (some learned the hard way!). We dive into the importance of community support, discussing how our writing friendships have helped us navigate challenges and maintain momentum. We explore key themes like authenticity and mastery, emphasizing the need to trust our unique creative processes, through the lens of Gina's "Creativity Quest" paradigm. You'll hear about the transformative power of storytelling, including the metaphor of being "three feet from gold," which reminds us to persevere even when success feels just out of reach. We also touch on the significance of inviting authenticity into our writing, encouraging each other to delve deeper into our characters and narratives. Join us as we celebrate our growth, share our intentions for the coming year, and inspire one another to embrace our creative identities fully. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, everyone is welcome to the table! ---------------- Visit our website [https://aroundthewriterstable.com/ep-54] for resource links, downloadable worksheets, and a full transcript of this episode!

Interview with Melody, A Scout (Ep. 53)

In this episode, we delve into a heartfelt conversation about creativity, personal growth, and the importance of rest in the writing process. Melody shares insights from her book, Soul of the Seasons, emphasizing the significance of embracing different life phases. The discussion highlights how pushing through fatigue can diminish the quality of creative work, and the importance of listening to one's body. We also explore the journey of writing historical fiction, touching on themes of resilience and self-discovery as characters navigate societal challenges. The episode serves as a reminder that honoring our creative rhythms and understanding our personal journeys can lead to deeper connections with our work and ourselves. Join KimBoo and Melody as we celebrate the art of writing and the wisdom gained through life's seasons! ---------------- Visit our website [https://aroundthewriterstable.com/ep-53] for resource links, downloadable worksheets, and a full transcript of this episode!

Worldbuilding: The Art of Plausibility in Fiction (Ep. 52)

In this episode we dive into the art of worldbuilding, a critical aspect not just for fantasy and sci-fi authors, but for all genres, including historical and contemporary fiction. We explore how worldbuilding is the foundation that brings settings to life, creating believability and plausibility for readers, and discuss the challenges of balancing facts with imagination in historical fiction, using Gina’s work on 1960s America and Melody’s early 1900s novel as examples. We also touch on the reader's role in engaging with fantasy worlds and how authors can manage the level of detail needed without overwhelming their audience. With references to familiar authors like J.R.R. Tolkien and Patrick O'Brien, we highlight the similarities in storytelling across genres, emphasizing the interconnectedness of story, characters, and the worlds they inhabit. Tune in as we analyze how these elements enhance (or hinder!) the narratives we create, leaving us all with a lot to ponder about our writing processes. ---------------- Visit our website [https://aroundthewriterstable.com/ep-52] for resource links, downloadable worksheets, and a full transcript of this episode!

Interview with historical fiction author Trish MacEnulty

In this episode of Around the Writer's Table, Melody dives into the fascinating world of historical fiction with the talented Trish MacEnulty. Join them as they explore her journey from a casual interest in history to becoming an award-winning author. Trish shares her insights on the importance of research, emphasizing how it enriches her storytelling and connects past events to contemporary issues. They discuss the challenges writers face, from balancing life responsibilities to the intricacies of self-promotion. Trish highlights the value of writing groups, where constructive feedback can help refine one's craft. From her  wealth of experience, Trish encourages aspiring writers to persevere and embrace their unique voices. Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical tips to fuel your writing journey. Tune in for an engaging conversation that celebrates creativity, resilience, and the joy of storytelling! ---------------- Visit our website [https://aroundthewriterstable.com/ep-51/] for resource links, downloadable worksheets, and a full transcript of this episode!