The other day my dear blogging buddy, Ally Bean commented on my Heart of the Matter blog post, “Apples and Authenticity” – a story about a dear colleague from many years ago who had a knack for prioritizing well, making good work/life balance decisions.
Ally’s observation reminded me of a quote I’d long forgotten…yet the underlying message is rooted in my circuitry…at a molecular level.
Ally’s comment:
“In my experience it’s the small memories that make for some of the most sound advice.”
My reaction:
As I read Ally’s comment, I’m certain a modest amount of smoke wafted from my brain as it chugged and clunked along, trying to summon the quote that was beyond my grasp.
I resorted to rifling through my messy stash of inspirational nuggets (yep – post-it notes, scraps of paper, and books stuffed to the gills and marked up) in order find the quote. (Side note: C’mon over if you wanna help me tidy up. I’m officially broadcasting ‘Clean Up on Aisle Six’ over these blogging airwaves.)
But Eureka – I was successful – after thirty minutes of mayhem-making and grunting. The gem I sought was from the esteemed Professor of English and author William Zinsser. In his book, “On Writing Well“, Zinsser said:
“Write about small, self-contained incidents that are still vivid in your memory. If you remember them, it’s because they contain a larger truth that your readers will recognize in their own lives. Think small and you’ll wind up finding the big themes in your family saga. ”
That was the one! The elusive quote sparked by Ally’s comment. I believe Ally’s observation plus Zinsser’s wisdom = some of the best writing advice I’ve ever run across. A reminder that inspiration IS around every corner if I’m using my noodle and paying attention. The smallest of small micro moments…memories which pulse forward from the past…provide great writing grist for this sentimental soul.
Such was the case when I wrote about my friend Aaron last week and his love of apples. I hadn’t thought about him in years, and yet he appeared as I munched on my own apple. Zooming in as a long-lost friend should.
I believe I experienced what Zinsser spoke of…vivid memories waiting to be found. Waiting to take their place, front and center once again.
Zinsser passed away in 2015 at the age of 92 after a long and distinguished career. He wrote “On Writing Well” in 1976 when he taught at Yale.
I paused and sighed when I read his biography just now. Doing the math…carrying the one, adding a two, I realized 1976 was nearly fifty years ago. My heart skipped a beat. How is that possible? My timelines are so muddied up, a problem with aging, I think.
I’ve had “On Writing Well” on my TBR list for far too long. I need to buckle down and read the whole volume and not languish over the bits and quotes.
Tell me – have you read Zinsser’s book?
If you have, share your thoughts.
In the interim, thanks to Ally for her inspired words. Blogging friends are like that. Generous and insightful and I’m grateful to you for reading and joining me as I “think small” about writing.
-Vicki 😊
On Writing Well: The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction by William Zinsser | Goodreads
Ally Bean’s delightful blog: https://thespectacledbean.com/
Hi – I’m Victoria, Vicki, Dr. Vicki. I hold a doctorate in Adult Education and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and author of Surviving Sue | Eckhartz Press.
Check out this link to learn more about my book “Surviving Sue” – all about resilience and love.
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Victoria Ponders 
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