Blackbird ArchiveTracking the Muse
Since 2007 we have invited contributors featured in our annual Introductions Loop to comment on their creative process. This year, Ciera Burch, Holli Carrell, Emily Chiles, Sarah Golin, Zach Hester, Joey Kingsley, Gwen E. Kirby, and Amy O’Reilly step up to the task.
Writer Ciera Burch describes her creative process rooted in observation and ancestral connection as a Black woman.
FeaturesReal Bananas and MoonPiePoet Zach Hester discusses collecting odd facts and his interest in prayer and the American psyche as inspiration.
FeaturesBlock by Block, Line by LinePoet Amy O'Reilly describes composing poems while pushing a stroller through her neighborhood.
FeaturesBecoming DorothyAn essay reflecting on The Wizard of Oz's Dorothy as a formative, empowering female protagonist.
FeaturesLining My NestWriter Gwen E. Kirby describes gathering odd, real-life details, including from a trip through Patagonia, as fiction material.
FeaturesSites of ExchangePoet Joey Kingsley reflects on walking and public transit as sources for the rhythms of her sonnets.
FeaturesWading into the StreamWriter Sarah Golin describes her process of following intuitive threads of memory and story in her nonfiction.
FeaturesOn 'Two Women' and ProcessPoet Holli Carrell discusses the image-driven origin of her poem 'Two Women' and her daily writing discipline.