Hi friends,
I hope you’re doing ok in these early days of the new year, and I’m sending love and strength to friends in Southern California. Here’s where to donate for disaster relief.
I wanted to share a quick update about some projects I’ve been working on. One of the quirks of working in seasons is that sometimes everything coalesces around one two-week period. And for me that period seems to fall in January.
I’ve learned that I do better work when I’m busy, so this is a good problem. It means there’s less time to ruminate (which can also be a full-time job if you’re not careful).
Nieman Storyboard Guest Editor
This week I’m thrilled to be starting a new role as guest editor for Nieman Storyboard, the narrative journalism site for Harvard’s Nieman Foundation.
I have many warm feelings for Storyboard — one of its early editors, Andrea Pitzer, was the first person to write about Longreads and its mission when I started it in 2009. It’s been an essential read for me ever since, with stories about the hard work journalists do every day, and how they do it.
I’m commissioning freelance articles and looking for interview subjects, so if you’re interested, read my intro post for details about how to connect.
New Song Coming Next Week
I have a new single being released next week! You can follow me on Spotify or Apple Music to get notified when it’s live. This was one of the first songs I wrote when I was challenging myself to create new music during the pandemic, and I’m happy it’s going out into the world. I’ll send another note next week with more details.
More Ursa Short Fiction on the Way
Finally, the Ursa Short Fiction podcast is returning next week as well. Stay tuned for more conversations and stories.
I’d Love to Hear from You
My favorite part of this newsletter is getting replies from you and keeping in touch with friends and colleagues. Say hi, or tell me what you’re reading or what you’re excited about in the new year.
Talk soon.
-Mark