Smeared Type

It’s been more than six month since the publication of Mulberry Child: A Memoir of China. As I spent a lot of time and effort on talks and book events to promote the book, I let go of my designated two hours of writing, either before I started my daytime job or after my return in the evening. Then, other things took more priorities: the reading I’ve always wanted to catch up with, the contacts I want to maintain via e-mail with friends and readers, and the class I want to take… the list goes on and on.

I thought I had the discipline of getting into the writing routine again once I’d make up my mind about the next book project. I also believed the experience of working on the first book would help me with the next one—I’d be more assured, more experienced, and more organized…. The truth is: It’s been two months since I made my decision on the next book and even finished the draft of the first chapter; however, the second chapter, to this day, remains an outline on a notepad I scribbled down on a flight to Houston on a business trip. Apparently, “things” do not fall into place by themselves—much conscious effort is required to keep a commitment, especially when it comes to daily writing—there is no short cut, but consistent and disciplined writing and rewriting every day, with audacity when necessary.

Jian Ping, author of Mulberry Child: A Memoir of China. Visit www.mulberrychild.com for more information.

Ellis gave a good summary of the “Night of Literary Feasts” in Lexington, Kentucky.

He is right. Despite the untimely ice storm that crushed numerous trees and wrapped the rest with thick, glistening layers of ice, the literary event was a great success. For me, it was a “feast” on many fronts—not only did I have the chance to meet Andre Dubus III, one of my favorite authors who presented immigrants with dignity and pride in House of Fog and Sand, and has now released a new novel The Garden of Last Days, but also had the chance to talk to authors whose works I had not read but I was so impressed by their personalities and writing experiences that I could hardly wait to read their books. I was particularly pleased to chat over breakfast with the articulate and energetic Qanta Ahmed (In the Land of Invisible Women). Even getting stuck at the airport, which resulted in a long ride from Louisville to Lexington became a pleasant bonding opportunity. I felt an immediate connection with the kind and supportive Katherine Bateman (Kentucky Clay) and the fashionable and prolific Gioia Diliberto (The Collection). And of course, it was always a pleasure to spend time together with my long time supporter and friend Ellis Goodman (Bear Any Burden.) At the three large gatherings attended by all the authors invited to the event, I was charged and inspired just standing in the crowd and listening to the other authors talk with their readers and supporters. But the feast was not just literary. My host family, Katie and Jim O’Brien extended their warmest hospitality with open arms—from rescuing the five of us from Louisville airport (vs. the scheduled landing in Lexington), to a special lunch with their friends, and ultimately the elaborate and surprisingly authentic Chinese dinner elegantly offered at their home, to a group of 27 people. Their genuine support and warmth indulged me in a feast of generosity, friendliness, and support. I learned from other authors that their hosts readily opened their doors and treated them with warmth as well. And of course, having a chance to hear my readers’ encouraging feedback face to face is yet another feast and treat.

My mind is still lingering in Lexington, absorbing the impact the event had on me and my writing, which I know will be long lasting.

Jian Ping, author of Mulberry Child: A Memoir of China. www.mulberrychild.com

I have just returned from a literary weekend in frozen Lexington, Kentucky, where I participated in a number of events to benefit the Lexington Public Library.  Under the auspices of the Lexington Public Library Foundation chaired by Margaret N. Jewett, and with the organization skills of William Watts, the Foundation Director, I was privileged to be invited to participate with fourteen other authors for what the Lexington Public Library Foundation calls “A Night of Literary Feasts.”

Lexington was frozen solid, under a blanket of snow and “a once in a century” ice storm that left the trees and countryside sparkling like a crystal winter wonderland, but also conspired to cut off power to half the city, including the homes of some of our hosts.  Nevertheless undaunted and determined to provide a full measure of southern hospitality to the guest authors, the program started with a gourmet dinner at the spectacular Walnut Hall, an 1850s mansion sitting within one of Lexington’s famous horse farms.

We were greeted by our hosts in rooms containing original furnishings, ancestral portraits, and dark paneled wood.  The guest of honor was the Iraqi Ambassador to the US, who made an informal but eloquent speech on the optimistic future of his country.  Each of the authors was able to mingle and talk with many other hosts for the weekend, as we enjoyed outstanding food and wines.

On Friday morning, some of my co-authors and I took advantage of a private tour of Mary Todd Lincoln’s house, where we spent two hours not only admiring the restoration of the Todd family’s home, but also received an enlightening tour and explanation of Lincoln history. (more…)