99 posts tagged with literary.
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Who are some current and successful writers of so-called meta-fiction?

Asking for a friend who writes such stuff rather well and is in the process of pitching their stuff to various agents. A key question they tend to ask is, who's currently doing such stuff and actually selling books? My friend's problem is that pretty everyone that comes to mind in terms of influence is older, often as not dead.
posted by philip-random on Oct 9, 2021 - 7 answers

Tactics for improving fiction writing (craft, narrative, characters)

I want to write beautiful, generous, precise, and insightful short fiction. I have a writing routine now, but I don't know how to improve my craft. I would love recommendations on concrete tactics, exercises…and maybe workshops to take (online or in London). [more inside]
posted by w-w-w on Jul 31, 2021 - 12 answers

How to find common literary ground: Dostoevsky vs Rick Riordan

Without a bunch of unnecessary back story, I used to be an avid reader, read many of the classics, but these days I tend to only enjoy teen drama/sci fi with quick pacing like Hunger Games, the Magicians, Percy Jackson, etc. I always preferred more contemporary stuff as soon as I was far enough in college to specialize (e.g. Thomas Pynchon over Austen), but now I feel like my taste is not on par with my education, and mostly I don't care about that because I like what I like, but part of me does care, and I wonder about trying to get back to some more literary/learned media. I say "media" because ideally I'd like to expand my tastes for tv shows and movies also. [more inside]
posted by crunchy potato on Jul 25, 2021 - 22 answers

Reading and Writing Eagles!

I am a middle school librarian. I’m starting a digital literary magazine and need a name! We are named after a deceased female educator from the town, and we informally use her three initials followed by MS to identify the school. We are the LastName Eagles and our mascot is an eagle. Any cute, clever, or informative ideas?
posted by firei on Sep 17, 2020 - 12 answers

Do you have a recipe from a favorite book?

I recently got so intrigued by a mention of "buttered eggs" in Dorothy Sayers' Lord Peter Views the Body that I dug up this great blog entry, followed the recipe, and made 'em. Delicious. Now I want to undertake more literary cooking. Ideas, great hive mind?
posted by bearwife on Jun 28, 2020 - 32 answers

Seeking Easy-Reading Classic Literature with a dash of Travel

My partner and I have been reading Hemingway books to each other before bed each night, as we have found them to be the right recipe of enriching literature + easy listening after a long day + a some armchair travel while we're lockdown. Besides Hemingway, which classic books (novels or memoirs) offer this same recipe for a pre-sleep ritual? [more inside]
posted by egeanin on Jun 13, 2020 - 21 answers

Identifying a Short SF Story

What's the best forum for asking questions along the lines of "What's the sf short story where..." E.g. "What's the sf short story where an entomologist discovers a hive of intelligent ants that collect butterfly and moth eggs for him, with dire consequences?"
posted by musofire on Jul 8, 2019 - 7 answers

Starting a literary magazine. How much should I pay contributors?

Hi. I want to start a small literary magazine online. I have enough funds to start a magazine and to pay for contributors down the line. I am not certain how much I should pay contributors for publication? [more inside]
posted by RearWindow on Apr 29, 2019 - 14 answers

Asian protagonists in Mystery/Crime Fiction: Book Recommendations?

[Book Recommendation Filter] Seeking recommendations for mystery and crime fiction that feature an Asian protagonist or a predominantly Asian cast of characters. It's not required that the books be set in Asia, but it's fine if they are. Open to books set in any time period, or written in any time period, or that involve persons from any Asian background (East Asian, South Asian, Southeast Asian, et cetera). A few extra details below the fold. [more inside]
posted by Fizz on Apr 11, 2019 - 45 answers

Wedding Vows: Seeking Suggestions & Guidance

We're writing our own wedding vows. We'd love any help finding beautiful poetry and prose to express the strength of our passion and commitment to one another; we'd also appreciate guidance on how to structure our vows. [more inside]
posted by nightrecordings on Mar 7, 2019 - 11 answers

Newbie fiction writer seeks connections & advice on getting started in p

Hey MeFi! Can you recommend things I can do to get started in literary publishing, in terms of publishing, pitching, making friends and getting involved in the literary community both IRL and online? Assume I've got a good writing routine down and am producing consistently, so don't need hacks regarding the writing process itself. Also, if you want to be writing buds, hit me up! [more inside]
posted by zestful on Nov 26, 2018 - 2 answers

Where to find grants and foundations for a non-profit literary journal?

Are there any specific grants and foundations that offer a reward towards non-profit literary journals and literary magazines in Texas and US in general? (Some are listed as art organizations, but not always).
posted by RearWindow on Aug 16, 2018 - 4 answers

Female literary dog names

My family is in the process of adopting two bonded female treeing walker coonhounds, and looking for literary names for them (especially ones that make sense as a pair). Can you provide us with some good suggestions? [more inside]
posted by RyanAdams on Aug 12, 2018 - 45 answers

Voracious reader seeks her next book

I’m in a bit of a reading slump and would like some help getting out of it. I really like realistic novels featuring ordinary families doing ordinary “life stuff” until they’re faced with an extraordinary situation—illness, crime, betrayal, death, etc. (I didn’t realize this sounded so grim until I wrote it down!) [more inside]
posted by bookmammal on Apr 29, 2018 - 26 answers

Grants for literary magazines and chapbook publications?

I am wondering if there are anay specific grants that will fund literary magazines as well as a chapbook press? [more inside]
posted by RearWindow on Apr 4, 2018 - 5 answers

Help me show my literary-minded aunt a good time in Boston and nearby

My aunt is visiting and has an interest in American literature (specialized in it in college) and is an English teacher. She's visiting from outside the US. We're based in the Boston-area which is perfect for this kind of thing - so would love to hear about gems we can explore either within the city or on day trips or perhaps one weekend away. [more inside]
posted by anonymous on Mar 10, 2018 - 25 answers

Magazines similar to The New Yorker?

The New Yorker is one of my favourite magazines. Are there any literary-artsy magazines similar to The New Yorker or that are based in New York City? I am looking for poetry, culture, books, stories, art, politics,and films.
posted by RearWindow on Mar 4, 2018 - 11 answers

PG Wodehouse Plot Style

A friend and I were talking about literary critique, you know, like you do. And when we talked about conflict and resolution in writing, I mentioned a plot structure used a lot by PG Wodehouse. They'd never heard of it. Is this a thing? what's it called? [more inside]
posted by Caravantea on Jan 17, 2018 - 9 answers

Literary escapism for those who are Sick of This Shit

I cannot with everything that's going on in the world and I would like to take the weekend to lose myself in fiction. Please recommend novels that will help me briefly forget about how awful the world is right now. [more inside]
posted by tatiana wishbone on Nov 10, 2017 - 39 answers

What are some excellent literary magazines to subscribe to?

Hi. I am curious to find some literary magazines to subscribe to. Whether it is North American, European, South American, etc (but in English if provided). I am trying to find some works on short stories, poetry, art, horror, thriller, victorian-ish writing, creative essays, humour, nature, creative non-fiction, political satire, etc. The scope of genre is eclectic and wide-ranging. I am very keen on learning about cultures and cultural standpoints on political and social ideas that might differ from western thought -- or the opposite. What are some must subscribed literary magazines? * I have a 12 month subscription to the New England Review from Middlebury College.
posted by RearWindow on Jul 18, 2017 - 10 answers

How does one become a literary magazine editor?

Hello. I am wondering how can one become a literary magazine editor? How do you build your way to the top? What degrees and skills should I be aiming for? I know a lot of online literary editors are mostly voluntary positions. Yet, this is something I have always wanted to do -- I just do not know where to start exactly. I was recently accepted to become a volunteer reader for an online literary magazine and that is probably the lowest ranking -- I guess one must build a gradual pace up the literary ladder. I cannot really afford to start my own online literary magazine since it can cost quite a bit. Maybe finding people that wish to start one might be an idea. I am eager to hear people's opinions constrictive and criticisms. Thank-you.
posted by RearWindow on Jul 4, 2017 - 6 answers

What are some blogs, twitter feeds, etc that lampoon literary fiction?

Yes, I'm aware of @GuyInYourMFA. (It's great!) Emphasis on the word lampoon–I'm looking for media that is blatantly taking the piss out of this genre, not subtly taking a tittering dig at it. Bonus points if you know of something that specifically scrutinizes the ridiculously lofty novel titles that litter the literary landscape.
posted by cathycartoon on May 2, 2017 - 3 answers

Can I make some side money spearheading an online literary magazine?

I am wanting to start an online literary magazine on the side while I pursue a MFA and intern in the coming fall. I am wondering if it is worth starting a literary magazine to make some pocket change? I know some magazines struggle, and I am wondering if there's any advice on how to make an ample amount? My first aim was non-profit, but there isn't much money in it, unless donations are given. I suppose it depends on the philosophical motive. I want to share and preserve the literary works, but I also want to make some money while doing this. Literarure and poetry are my two greatest passions. It's a lot of work to design and market this out of free labour; I do a lot of volunteer work myself, bur some extra cash with this project is something I would like to pursue. Some people may not view literary magazines as a business franchise while others may do so. Thoughts? Thanks, RW.
posted by RearWindow on Mar 26, 2017 - 9 answers

Short story where silences are represented with unicode symbols?

Discussing silences in text with somebody, I was reminded of a story I read where the (probably Jewish) author sought to write the different kinds of silences that came up when talking to his family by using little symbols - an arrow, a interrobang, a star. [more inside]
posted by solarion on Mar 21, 2017 - 4 answers

TV series like literary novels

I recently inhaled The Crown. My all time favorite TV show is Mad Men. What should I watch next? [more inside]
posted by PhoBWanKenobi on Nov 28, 2016 - 59 answers

Ideas for "home library" kit as a wedding gift

A couple of literary friends are getting married, and I'd like to indulge their bibliophile tendencies. What are some ideas for gifts that would make practical additions to a home library? [more inside]
posted by Miko on Aug 27, 2016 - 25 answers

Cocktails in Latin American Literature?

Looking for cocktails featured in Latin American literature for a library event to be held in October. [more inside]
posted by cinemafiend on Jun 20, 2016 - 10 answers

A well known author said something like: within the detail is the world?

Hello MetaFilter. I recently came across a succinct (single sentence) quote by , I think, a famous author (perhaps began with a J? Joyce?). It beautifully expressed the idea that: "within the single detail is the world" or "everything is contained within a tiny detail" I can't find it via Google. Please could you help me to find the correct quotation? I think it should be fairly well known. Many thanks.
posted by Speculatist on May 19, 2016 - 22 answers

Best annotated literary recommendations?

What are some excellent annotated versions of already excellent books? [more inside]
posted by amicamentis on Apr 22, 2016 - 20 answers

I need a Great [not necessarily American] Novel, damn it.

[Book recommendation filter] Must be literary. Must be wildly absorbing. Ensemble casts of characters preferred but not required. The longer, the better. Did it sweep YOU off your feet? Tell me about it! [more inside]
posted by nightrecordings on Feb 6, 2016 - 56 answers

Recommendations for enjoyable, easy-to-comprehend short stories

I’m looking for recommendations for conventional short stories that are reasonably easy to read and have some literary merit. When I say “conventional”, I mean stories that have a distinct plot, with recognizable characters, and some kind of clear resolution at the end. [more inside]
posted by akk2014 on Sep 13, 2015 - 18 answers

Theoretical Illiteracy Dept: "Reading Against the Grain"?

I think I know what reading against the grain means and it seems like a common phrase and practice in academic arenas, but who said it first? [more inside]
posted by xaryts on Aug 13, 2015 - 7 answers

Best Kindle literary fiction under $2?

I'd like to stock up my Kindle relatively inexpensively (and am also a little overwhelmed by the phenomenal quantity of cheap public domain books available). What are the best works of literary fiction under $2 available for the Kindle? Preferences/requirements inside. [more inside]
posted by Mrs. Pterodactyl on Aug 6, 2015 - 21 answers

Poem or quote about heirlooms, family tradition or hand-me-downs?

I am looking for suggestions for a short, sentimental/heartwarming/heartfelt poem or quote about heirlooms, family tradition or hand-me-downs to include on a gift for my grandmother. This is a thank-you gift for letting me wear her wedding dress at my own wedding and a tribute to the family tradition of marriages on the same date. [more inside]
posted by IsItJustMe? on Jun 9, 2015 - 3 answers

Authors and novels recommendations for improving writing craft?

I have always been fond of writing poetry, but lately I seem to want to expand my writing craft towards short stories. I think the most notable clincher for writers to improve their overall craft is simply by reading voraciously; with an eclectic wide range of authors and literary works. What are some wonderful literary works, authors, playwrights, short stories, non-fiction, fantasy work, et cetera. Can you recommend for me? To further my own voice and writing craft. [more inside]
posted by RearWindow on Apr 1, 2015 - 9 answers

Help me identify this (probably fictional) conversation?

Hey all, a particular literary conversation has gotten stuck in my head for days and I can't source it. I've tried every number and combination of Bing/Google searches, but it may be that I'm not getting the exact words right in the phrase. [more inside]
posted by The Zeroth Law on Nov 30, 2014 - 10 answers

Where is the literary and cultural capital of the world...right now?

I'm watching a documentary on Netflix called "New York in the 50's" about poets, journalists, and free thinkers in the Village during the Eisenhower administration. The interviewees keep referencing a self-conscious attempt to emulate life in Paris in the 1920s. So two questions come to mind: 1) Where is this occurring today? Does it only appear in hindsight? Accordingly, 2) Where else have such flowerings occurred? Paris in 1848? Prague in 1968? Has the internet made this kind of location-based creativity irrelevant?
posted by jefficator on Sep 9, 2014 - 20 answers

high-concept low-spectacle speculative realistic fiction

What are some good novels that have a high-concept speculative element in the background, but aren't quite about that? [more inside]
posted by threeants on Jul 28, 2014 - 34 answers

Seeking information about Doubleday, Junior Literary Guild, Junior Books

Do you know something about the history of publishing? Help me out. [more inside]
posted by crazylegs on May 13, 2014 - 2 answers

Today's science-fiction story: P. Anderson's classic "A Plate of Beans."

In Poul Anderson’s “The Last of the Deliverers,” (spoilers ahead) he describes a future America in which, for all practical purposes, cheap solar energy and a culture of decreased desires for material advancement (people are essentially satisfied with a comfortable, but low, standard of living) have led to a kind of utopia. The plot of the story is, more or less, that two representatives of remnants from an older culture – a small-government type in the Barry Goldwater mold as well as a member of the American Communist Party – meet in a village and argue about the virtues of their respective ideologies, but cannot appreciate that social evolution and the lack of scarcity produced by it has made their political differences (and their politics) largely pointless and obsolete. So how am I to understand the last half-paragraph of the story, which seems to undercut the entire story in a most paradoxical way: [more inside]
posted by Mr. Justice on Apr 21, 2014 - 4 answers

How important is emotional literacy to academic success?

Most of the academic textbooks I've read have had a drawn-out presentation style based on psychological observations as part of an effort to project a particular voice. [more inside]
posted by Musashi Daryl on Apr 18, 2014 - 3 answers

Business, Murakami, DFW, and Music

Book suggestions for a gift exchange recipient that combine business, Haruki Murakami, David Foster Wallace, and/or music? (here's hoping my recipient isn't also a Mefite!) [more inside]
posted by divabat on Mar 4, 2014 - 10 answers

John Steinbeck Literary Mystery

John Steinbeck included this inscription in a friend's copy of Cannery Row: Kahn ni melm Sarat Twini Sener Ni Melm Siri Here is a copy. Any ideas on what it could mean are much appreciated. [more inside]
posted by JCMFD on Feb 4, 2014 - 11 answers

Looking for a good literary magazine...

I want to submit my short story to the kind of literary magazine that I'd actually enjoy reading. Do you have any suggestions? [more inside]
posted by pretentious illiterate on May 25, 2013 - 12 answers

Literary novel with trailers joined in a circle

Identify this book. Literary novel, probably a first novel, published between 1994 and 1997, written by a guy who had taught writing at Harvard. The only thing I remember in it is an obsessive character in the desert who has welded multiple trailers or mobile homes in a circle so he can obsessively walk in circles inside them. [more inside]
posted by Unified Theory on May 13, 2013 - 7 answers

The Good Book as good read

I am looking for recommendations for bibles in languages other than English, specifically for their literary qualities. [more inside]
posted by ricochet biscuit on Apr 16, 2013 - 8 answers

Help make me literate like an engineer

So people like to name-drop authors and works that those who went to university and/or have a curiosity about the world should know as part of the basic vocabulary of being an educated Westerner. For example, "Kant" or "Dickensian", or "Gertrude Stein". I would like to learn this stuff, please. [more inside]
posted by grahamsletter on Mar 20, 2013 - 34 answers

Career Ideas

I am finishing my associate of arts degree. I am trying to think of possible career paths. The careers I am thinking of are related to librarian work, academia, reading/literacy teacher, speech language pathologist. Some of my interests/strengths are clerical work, very creative, research/writing, counseling/teaching, art layout, health, the outdoors. I like working with children. Are there any careers along these paths that I should consider ?
posted by Lillian7 on Feb 19, 2013 - 10 answers

Vey iz mir.

Bookish Mefites, help me come up with a list of literary sad sacks. [more inside]
posted by Currer Belfry on Jan 31, 2013 - 29 answers

Young writer connected with HTMLGiant and made funny xtranormal videos?

I forgot the name of this young author I like. He writes weird, short fiction and had a crazy LiveJournal page (or something outdated like that). I think he's connected with HTMLGiant or some similar hip online literary site. [more inside]
posted by jng on Dec 7, 2012 - 5 answers

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