Please welcome Connecticut-based journalist Jane E. Dee to Write Despite. Non-fiction, done well, has a special power all its own, which Jane’s writing attests to. Read her latest essay, a touching account of her beloved father’s decline.
More from Jane:
In college I considered myself a “creative writer.” Being a reporter didn’t appeal to me. Then I began writing for a community newspaper in Hartford. My editor at the time was covering local politics. I thought “Good for him,” because I had no interest in writing about politics. Then he sent me to a mayoral nominating convention. I covered politics and local communities for the rest of my career, which was at the Hartford Courant. I’m still with the Courant, where I’ve held a number of positions. And I still consider myself a creative writer, although I approach writing with a journalist’s curiosity, focus and succinctness. Or at least I try.
1. What’s the best writing advice you’ve ever received?
It doesn’t matter how well you write. What matters is what’s inside of you.
2. Please tell us your favorite three authors.
I just finished Meghan O’Rourke’s “The Long Goodbye” and it moved me as a reader, and taught me things as a writer. Ann Patchett and John Updike.
3. Briefly describe your journey to publication.
After writing for a about a year for the community newspaper, Courant editors noticed my work and I began working for them.
4. Advice for those now on the road to publication?
Write and submit. Rewrite and submit. Be professional and responsible in your dealings with editors. It’s a lot like applying for a job.
5. Do you write every day?
No, but I do make time to write. Deadlines are a great motivator.
6. What are you writing now?
I’m writing a magazine article about a soldier who fought in World War 1.
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