Maggie Smith, a poet and author known for her viral poem 'Good Bones,' dives into the transformative power of creativity. She discusses how writing has been her anchor through tough times and emphasizes that all decisions are inherently creative. Smith debunks the myth of the solitary artist, celebrating the importance of community in the creative process. She highlights the gift of attention, reminding us that genuine engagement with the world enhances our appreciation for beauty and art. Her insights inspire listeners to embrace their own creative journeys.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Connection Sparks in Grocery Store
Amy Hardin shared a story about a stranger in a grocery store wearing a Sturgill Simpson shirt.
She told him his shirt made her happy, which made both of their days brighter through a brief connection.
insights INSIGHT
Life as Creative Art
Maggie Smith believes everyone is creative through daily life choices.
Creativity is not limited to art; every decision we make shapes our unique life as a piece of living art.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Writing Transforms Your Story
Writing about your life changes your perspective and self, even if the facts stay the same.
Transforming your story through writing helps improve clarity and move forward.
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Dear Writer provides tools for artists of all experience levels by breaking down creativity into ten essential elements: attention, wonder, vision, play, surprise, vulnerability, restlessness, tenacity, connection, and hope. Each element is explored through inspiring essays and generative writing prompts, making it accessible to various genres and areas of life. The book is inspired by Maggie Smith's twenty years of teaching experience and her bestselling Substack newsletter, For Dear Life.
Bird by Bird
Some Instructions on Writing and Life
Anne Lamott
Susan Bennett
Bird by Bird is a comprehensive guide to writing that covers various aspects of the craft, from the initial stages of starting a project to the technical details of plot, character, and dialogue. Lamott emphasizes the importance of persistence, faith, and hard work in writing. She advocates for writing imperfect first drafts and warns against the pitfalls of perfectionism and self-criticism. The book also delves into the emotional and spiritual aspects of writing, encouraging writers to confront their deepest fears and desires. Lamott's approach is down-to-earth, humorous, and generously filled with personal experiences and practical advice.
Keep Moving
Maggie Smith
In 'Keep Moving,' Maggie Smith shares her personal journey through divorce, single parenthood, postpartum depression, anxiety, loss, and grief. The book is a compilation of daily affirmations and essays that she initially posted on social media to help herself and others move forward through difficult times. It emphasizes the importance of kindness, hope, and transformation, encouraging readers to lean into change rather than avoiding it. The book is praised for its profound insights, empathy, and honesty, making it a valuable resource for anyone struggling with grief, change, and uncertainty.
You Can Make This Place Beautiful
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Maggie Smith
Maggie Smith's "You Can Make This Place Beautiful" offers a poignant exploration of divorce and its aftermath. The book delves into the emotional complexities of separation, examining themes of grief, loss, and self-discovery. Smith's honest and vulnerable portrayal of her experiences resonates with readers who have faced similar challenges. The book explores the process of healing and rebuilding one's life after a significant loss. It offers a message of hope and resilience, reminding readers that even in the midst of pain, beauty and growth are possible.
My Life
Iceberg Slim
Description:
…
We need art and beauty now more than ever
We need creators to create
And Jen admits to being a metaphor whore
Thought-provoking Quotes:
“The thing that really kept me going was writing. Writing was the way that I came home to myself.” – Maggie Smith
8:00 Nobody wants my cookbook. The next step will be call Doordash – Maggie Smith
9:00 Every decision you make is a creative decision.
10:15 I always want to grab people by the shoulders….
13:45 Even if you’re not a writer, if you have a good therapist, they’ll probably tell you to write.
27:15 The quality of your attention in the world is your gift.
31:00 I am so grateful that people make things
35:00 I may look like I’m alone when I’m writing
35:30 I think it’s important to debunk the myth of the solo creator (similar to the tortured artist)
42:00 I would hate for people to think that fully formed poems come out. Just get it down.
For The Love With Jen Hatmaker Podcast 
