Short Nonfiction
"Pink and Golden Years," published in 2024, and "Forever?" published in 2025, illuminate the passage of time while emphasizing the transience and importance of the people who matter most.
Written in 2024, Published in the Ivy Leaves Journal 2024 (Pink and Golden Years) and 2025 (Forever?) Volumes.
Authorial Growth
(Spoilers Ahead)
1
Ending Epiphanies
The big twist in "Pink and Golden Years" is obviously the realization that I'm referring to my father rather than a significant other. When this piece was being workshopped, my writing peers had me refine bits of it to allow the reader to still make a discovery without being completely whiplashed out of their expectation. I wanted to handle the feelings of love well, showing fondness without making my readers uncomfortable.
2
One Concise Moment
Both of my nonfiction pieces center on one small moment. For "Pink and Golden Years," it was a morning coffee with my dad. For "Forever?" it was a proposal I witnessed at an event. Though my longer nonfiction pieces span longer periods of time or aren't really about one specific moment at all, these two—the only ones published so far—aim to handle the present with punch and dignity. Is working with one small moment more effective than spanning a few large ones?
3
Why Is It Important?
Why are these tiny moments worth making into a story? Oftentimes because I find meaning in them that burrows deeper than what they appear to mean on the surface. It's difficult to merge insight with action, and I had to learn how to keep the reader in the present moment while also illuminating my overarching thoughts and insights.
Writing Spot Highlight
Brakeman's Coffee & Supply
225 N Trade Street, Matthews, NC
If you're looking for a place that feels homey, unique, and not remotely simplistic, Brakeman's is a wonderful spot to spend an afternoon. With multiple levels of seating, from an enclosed patio to a quiet attic, the environment is perfect for catching up or getting work done. Most notably, for me at least, they have treats there from local bakers, and the spanakopita kept me coming back for more. Whether it's raining and dreary or bright and beautiful, an afternoon in the attic writing a story was always something to look forward to. Oh, and if you end up going, look for my signature on the attic windowsill. It might still be there...until then, check out their Instagram below:
