Queer Writers of Queens, 5/27/2026

• "draw the house" - when you are describing something, think of if someone could draw it
• "over-editing" - can avoid this by viewing your work in different formats (using a different word processor, putting it in a spreadsheet)
  • handwriting is also important

Avigayl Sharp, The Creative Independent, 5/19/2026

• I felt like everything I wrote was wonderful, but [my teacher] was like, “there’s a lot here that needs work.” There’s a moment when you decide to do something for the good of itself. You’re like, “okay, maybe I really want to see what I can do. Maybe I’m really willing to work. Maybe it’s not going to come easily to me and that’s okay.” That was the beginning of my love of working, instead of just loving the praise.

Caro Claire Burke, 4/10/2026

• It's not nothing to make a decision that reinforces your own sense of legitimacy.

Min Jin Lee, Queens College reading/lecture, 3/25/2026

• I believe in throwing away drafts
• I like the idea that we are infinite, so you don't have to worry about losing something forever if you throw it away.

can't remember where I heard this, 3/5/2026

• respect for your own memory and specificity as a way to connect with other people

can't remember where I heard this, 2/10/2026

• Narrative writing where you create an ending is helpful for healing (even if you don't actually have closure with the person)