[Alternative Muses] Writerly Style: Margaret Wise Brown

“Over the years I have learned that what is important in a dress is the woman who is wearing it.”–Yves Saint-Laurent

Iconic children’s book author Margaret Wise Brown had style to match her writing: timeless, straightforward yet unique, and unforgettable.

The stripes and strong shoulders, though clearly from the 1940s, are streamlined, edgy, and relevant:

Margaret Wise Brown Writing

Her bouncy, easy-going hairstyle is impeccably modern, and is the perfect accompaniment to her sleek, minimally accessorized dress:

Margaret Wise Brown

 Some would say that a favorite doggo is the best “finishing touch” of all:

Margaret Wise Brown by Consuelo Kanaga, circa 1940-1950

It’s no secret that Margaret Wise Brown was very outdoorsy and active, a lifestyle which effortlessly merged with her sophisticated and relaxed dress sense. She’s wonderful inspiration for anyone who values style, practicality, and a dash of whimsy. 

[Alternative Muses] Birthday Mashup: Charles Dickens/Sinclair Lewis/Laura Ingalls Wilder/Gay Talese

“No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another.”-Charles Dickens (born 7 February 1812)

Sinclair Lewis by Arnold Genthe, 7 March 1914

Sinclair Lewis (born 7 February 1885) by Arnold Genthe, 7 March 1914

And:

Laura Ingalls Wilder, circa 1885

Laura Ingalls Wilder (born 7 February 1867), circa 1885

“I am a documentarian of what I do.”-Gay Talese (born 7 February 1932)

Daily Diversion #365: One Line a Day

Even though I’m a writer, I’m horrible at keeping a journal. I want to go back and edit my work, which defeats the purpose of keeping a diary. It doesn’t take long for my perfectionism to turn into frustration. I’m sure you can guess what always happens next. 

This one line a day journal is perfect for me, though. It’s practical, low-pressure, and pretty. I call that a win! 

One Line a Day

One Line a Day

Heigh-Ho, January! Sane (and Fun) Writing Goals for the New Year

This is one of the first pieces that I wrote for ASPL, five years ago.

A Small Press Life: Books. Art. Writing. Life. Tea.

Typebars in a 1920s typewriter

January, although frigid and dreary, has a few compensatory gifts up its wintry sleeve that no other month can offer: a chance to rewind the clock to start, a vague idea that anything is possible, and a sense of euphoria that can only be found when the year is in its first blush. Although these feelings naturally fade as the temperature rises, you should be able to use this energy all year-long. The goals I have in mind aren’t tauntingly out of reach, nor must they be broken down into a dozen discouraging steps; they could just as easily be called Life Skills for Writers.

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The Writers’ House Calendar by Amanda White

Amanda White runs one of my favourite literary-themed Etsy shops. I also follow her on Facebook, so I was thrilled to find her 2016 calendar for sale at my local Barnes and Noble.

The Writers' House Calendar

The Writers’ House Calendar for 2016.

This is another reason to look forward to the new year!