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I’m sitting in Canada with a small calico cat curled up on my feet as I write. There’s a cup of tea on the nightstand next to me. But the thing that is bringing me the most joy right now is a small glass vase with a pink carnation that came with room service. This pop of color in an otherwise beige hotel room is such a soft joy.
I think it is the juxtaposition of the generic corporate furniture with an imperfect ruffled flower.
Often, we talk about juxtaposition or contrast as a way to create tension in a story. This bit of life is a reminder that contrast can also a source of joy. Things are hard in the world right now.
What small contrasting joy can you find?
I am happy to let you know that ticket sales are now open for the 2027 Writing Excuses Retreat.
We are partnering with Maurice Broaddus and The Ray Bradbury Center in Indianapolis, Indiana. The retreat is June 10-16, 2027.
There are also scholarship opportunities.
MRK’s Mundane Moments
Here’s a quick snapshot of what I’m…
- Crafting: Alma Sweater
- Reading: This Inevitable Ruin * (Actually listening to it.)
- Writing: “The cursor beat on her computer screen in time with Elsie’s tail.”
- Watching: Ted Lasso
- Enjoying: Rose ice cube molds for when I want my drink to be extra pretty.
Noteworthy News
I want to let you know about an opportunity that may be of interest to you. Spoonquill is a fully online residency for writers with chronic illness. It meets via ten sessions spaced out over three months.
They are open for applications from now through November 30th at 5 PM PT. It’s free to apply and attend. If you count spoons and write speculative fiction, this is a good fit for you! Learn more here.
Upcoming Events
I have a few book signings, festivals, and other opportunities for connection coming up. I’d love to see you at one (or more!)
In the next 30 days…
- Every Sunday, 12 PM ET: Make Me Write session for Patreon subscribers at that tier
- Now through October 26 in Surrey, BC: Surrey International Writers Conference
- October 26 at 8 PM ET, Virtual: Patreon writing class – A Tour of Scrivener in Action for Patreon subscribers at the Live-streaming Classes tier and above
- November 3 at 8 PM ET, Virtual: Patreon Q&A Session for Patreon subscribers at the Q&A tier and above
And beyond…
- January 15-18 in Rockaway Beach, OR: Reading Retreat with MRK and Sandra Tayler (1 ticket left)
- January 28-31 in Chicago, IL: Guest of Honor at Capricon 47
- February 4-6, 2027 in Colorado Springs, CO: Superstars Writing Seminar
- February 20-27, 2027 in Fort Lauderdale, FL: JoCo Cruise (90+% sold out)
- April 30-May 3, 2027 in Albuquerque, NM: Sandia Starforgers Writers Workshop and Retreat (fully sold out, but scholarship available)
Featured Patreon Event
October’s Live Class for Writers: A Tour of Scrivener in Action
October 26th at 8 PM ET
Everyone talks about how great Scrivener is for writers, but learning your way around the software is challenging.
In this live class, I will show you how I use Scrivener to write. I’ll show you multiple works in progress at different stages of completion to demonstrate the tools that make a writer’s life easier.
We start at 8:00 PM ET on October 26. To attend live, register for my Patreon at the Live-streaming Classes tier or above.
I offer a 7-day free trial for new Patreon members. If you take this option, may I suggest you start at the highest tier that interests you (such as Make Me Write) so you can get as many benefits as possible. Then, set yourself a calendar reminder to adjust your membership, if desired, before payment kicks in.
Elsie’s Corner
Recently, I was at a hotel with Elsie and was relaxing on the bed, browsing my phone.
She decided it was time for bed. And told me so, in no uncertain terms.
Want to start your own communication journey with your animal?
Click the link below and use the code “elsiewant” for 12% off FluentPet buttons.*
Don’t miss this incredible research zine by Thalia Lombardo (@effer.ves.cent) on interspecies communication, featuring Elsie!
Thalia is studying Anthropology at the University of Vermont and is part of the C.R.O.W. (Corvid Relational Observatory and Workshop) Lab.
This amazing zine is the culmination of a semester of research, and Thalia is “promoting meeting animals halfway (or further) so we can make our relationships with them more mutual.” I couldn’t love this purpose any more! Congratulations on your work, Thalia, and thank you for capturing Elsie so perfectly.
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* This indicates an affiliate link. If you purchase from the link or use the code, Mary Robinette will make a commission. This does not increase your cost; it simply helps support her work.