For many years I wrote about fiction, story, belief, ordinary life, and the questions that shaped my work. More than two thousand essays remain here—not because every one represents my current thinking, but because together they tell the story of a writer learning over time.
Search for a subject, browse by month and year, or begin with the most recent writing below.
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The archive begins with the most recent writing. Use the numbered pages below to move backward through time.
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Drafting–Colton & Sandy buy new phones and return to Ruskin Ave. to find Mildred Simmons inside Pop’s house
While Colton sat in the RAM, he was tempted to go online and search for Ray’s Garage. But, he resisted the temptation, not wanting to give away their…
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02/06/23 Biking & Listening
Biking is something else I both love and hate. It takes a lot of effort but does provide good exercise and most days over an hour to listen…
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Octopus Empire: An Animated Poem
Here’s the link to this article. A playful and poignant what-if for the planet. BY MARIA POPOVA This is the eighth of nine installments in the animated interlude…
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Do Not Despise Your Inner World: Advice on a Full Life from Philosopher Martha Nussbaum
Here’s the link to this article. “Our emotional life maps our incompleteness: A creature without any needs would never have reasons for fear, or grief, or hope, or…
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Writing Journal—Monday writing prompt
Your protagonist is flipping through a book at the library when a note falls out. It contains a message from someone begging for help, along with an address.…
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Morality and the Christian God
I encourage you to listen to this audio by Sam Harris.
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02/05/23 Biking & Listening
Biking is something else I both love and hate. It takes a lot of effort but does provide good exercise and most days over an hour to listen…
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Writing Journal—Sunday writing prompt
Your protagonist is enjoying a bonfire with friends when he spots lights in the sky. Describe what happens next. One Stop for Writers Guidance & tips Write the…
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02/04/23 Biking & Listening
Biking is something else I both love and hate. It takes a lot of effort but does provide good exercise and most days over an hour to listen…
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The More Loving One: The Science of Entropy and the Art of Alternative Endings
Here’s the link to this article. “If equal affection cannot be, let the more loving one be me.” BY MARIA POPOVA This is the seventh of nine installments…
Richard L. Fricks 