It feels impossible to make lasting connections with anyone here in LA, San Diego, or wherever for that matter. I don't feel like it's worth it to try and put myself out there only to be left holding the bag and falling into a pit of resentment, cynicism, despair, and disappointment.

Many thanks to @kevinmkearney.bsky.social for organizing Small Press Nite, and to Book Catapult for hosting.
Reading photos: @kevinmkearney.bsky.social, @stutz-writes.bsky.social, @adamvoith.bsky.social

“Go further. Go there. Go out with fire.”

So, I shall.

“Go further. Go there. Go out with fire.” Given the precarious times we find ourselves in, this can also be a mantra of sorts to continue pushing forward despite whatever resistance one may encounter, be it internal or external, writing-related or not.

These three statements redirect my focus towards trying to maintain a simple and unadulterated momentum with writing that all too often feels frustratingly elusive when surrounded by so much noise.

Each of these expressions is inscribed on the inside cover of my notebook. I cherish this guidance because it gets me back to the bare necessity that my writing requires of me.

These are the most instructive pieces of advice that I’ve received regarding writing. Each aphorism was given to me at different points within the last decade by Mark Wallace, Heller Levinson, and Eryn Green respectively.

It reminded me of writing advice that I’ve gotten from mentors and friends: “Go further. Go there. Go out with fire.”

These three statements redirect my focus towards trying to maintain a simple and unadulterated momentum with writing that all too often feels frustratingly elusive when surrounded by so much noise.

Each of these expressions is inscribed on the inside cover of my notebook. I cherish this guidance because it gets me back to the bare necessity that my writing requires of me.

“Go further. Go there. Go out with fire.”

These are the most instructive pieces of advice that I’ve received regarding writing. Each aphorism was given to me at different points within the last decade by Mark Wallace, Heller Levinson, and Eryn Green respectively.

@jamellebouie.net Incredible column today! As usual, your arguments are brilliant and incisive and cut at the heart of the regime’s insidious ploys. Thank you!

I’ve been naive enough to believe that awkward, earnest enthusiasm and affection could win out and that authentic friendships could flourish.

I feel like such a fool, especially here in L.A.

It never ceases to amaze me how naive I can still be.

For so long I’ve wanted to believe that these relationships aren’t based on credentials, peddling influence, or possessing cachet, and that genuine friendship in these spaces is possible.