Our day-to-day continues to stay the same. But there is joy to be found even in the small moments. And today, I'm excited to chat with Cara Long about her pages penned in pandemic.
What does the pandemic currently look like in your city?
It looks like masks, and turning everything into a political argument. To be honest, I feel it more important to smile with some eye wrinkles because I want people to know I see them. It seems tempers have become shorter, but that there are great ways people are coming up to serve each other, and to support local businesses. So, I focus my view on the good and smile, smile, smile. I love people, so if I can help lift them, I will.
What are some favorite books you've read during quarantine?
I have a job that requires approximately 10 hours of driving three days a week so I have grown to become a fan of a well-narrated audiobook. I loved Girl, Wash your Face. It reminded me of lessons I’ve learned, but hadn’t been utilizing. Where the Crawdad’s Sing. Such beautiful use of language. I felt a sensuousness in her descriptions that flowed over my skin. I enjoyed Before We Were Yours, Into the Void, The Hate U Give, and When Dimple Met Rischi. I just completed Behind Closed Doors which would not be to everyone’s taste, but did keep me riveted to the last word—even though I might have figured it out half way through— which usually makes me bored with a book.
Have there been any movies, tv shows, podcasts, etc. that have helped keep you at ease the past few months?
I discovered a podcast called “Movie Therapy” which I find delightful. I now have a whole list of movies to check out.
How has the pandemic affected your writing?
To be honest, it has been difficult to force myself to carve out writing time. I think I’m afraid of what I might discover roiling around in my head.
Are there any projects you are excited to keep working on? If so, can you give us any details (no spoilers please!) about your project?
I began a novel two years ago and have picked that up again. I have sent it out to peer readers, and reached out for advice on how best to write my idea in a way that will allow readers to connect and care about the characters. It entails storytelling from our elders watched through the eyes of a child. I’m very excited.
If you haven't been able to write, are there any projects you're hoping to work on next?
Another book in my picture book series. My writing for children is always light and fun even when the hurdles pop up. When I write for adults I find it gets dark...but, surprisingly, upbeat. (Name that movie reference). No, it gets dark so I like to mix it up. I’m looking forward to some rhyming.
If asked ten years from now what the past few months have taught you about being a writer, what would come to mind?
There will always be something that allows me to get in my own way. And that is just it. I will always be able to find an excuse not to write, or to give up. The hardest part, for me, is always the last few steps before the finish line.
Have there been any fellow writers or people in your life who have helped you stay connected during the pandemic?
You. I love that you post your successes and your failures. It is so helpful to know that you don’t give up. That in the trying, you believe your words will resonate with someone and that is the reader we are looking for anyway. My sister and niece are great supports for my writing. We make goals with each other, and then “support” one another in reaching them. And, mostly, readers who take the time to comment, or acknowledge they’ve seen my words. Erika and Tiffany continue to support me with texts, comments, and reminders that though we are not together, we aren’t so far apart; we can feel each other’s heart hugs.
Is there anything that excites you about the changes being incited in the publishing world in light of recent events?
It seems children’s book sales have increased as parents are reading to their children again.
Are you a plotter, pantser, or somewhere in between? Has this changed during the pandemic?
I like to think of myself as a vomiter of words. I lose myself inside of the characters for a time. I enjoy the feeling of knowing them. If I find myself going off track they literally give me the silent treatment. I don’t feel my writing style has changed during the pandemic. What has changed is my willingness to allow the words out.
Where is your favorite place to write? Has this changed during the pandemic?
I love to write in my chair by the window. I drape my legs over the side, and rest my laptop on my belly shelf. When I get stuck in my writing, looking out at nature, and the life it holds, usually gives me a jumpstart and allows me a reflection I cannot find elsewhere. It has changed. I find that I discover more reasons to not sit in the chair. Whether anxiety, challenges with work or children, my excuses have grown into monsters that, at times, convince me I can’t write. I will say I have gotten in the habit of writing every day again in the last few weeks. Sometimes on a manuscript, but also journaling, haikus, or nonsense. For me, the habit is the most important step in losing myself to the words.
Without too many spoilers, what is your favorite scene you've written since the pandemic began?
A new opening scene in a short story I’m working on:
Sandra stared at the semi-colon. Her thumb moved over the black ink that marred the perfect, tawny skin. The message shouted itself loud and clear. You are a failure! A tear dropped and splashed onto her thumb. Startled, Sandra pulled her thumb away, and moved her hand to rest on her side, then reached again, and pulled the sweater down to cover that damn punctuation mark, before she turned to answer the funeral director.
While the future is just as unknowable as ever, what is something you are most looking forward to this year?
Seeing my mother. And, hugging. I miss hugging.
Is there any advice you would give to young writers during this time?
My advice would be to write. Your words will be part of history. Your stories will be a reminder of what life was like during this time whether told through poetry, fiction, non-fiction, or music. However you you find it best to share your experiences. Young writers have unique voices. I love to hear from them. I’m inspired by their honesty. I’m humbled by their anxieties and fear. I’m grateful for their hope.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
Pick up that pencil, pad or computer and write, friends. I look forward to seeing you on the bookshelves.
ABOUT Cara long
Cara Long lives in Anchor Point Alaska. She is a mother of 9 and anticipates the arrival of lucky grandchild 13 in October. Her best friends are the Alaska State Troopers the pull her over to see how she’s doing and where she’s headed. Cara owns a lodge, CJ’s, which welcomes visitors that want to fish, birdwatch, or just have a quiet space for writing. So if you find yourself headed North look her up. She loves visitors.
