Selected short reading (vol. 8)

My consumption of short pieces has dropped substantially since completing my Post-Graduate Diploma in Creative Writing a couple years back. Makes sense as I’m no longer required to keep a reading journal and critically evaluate short-form pieces. I’ve also slowed (maybe even halted?) my own fiction writing, meaning I’m no longer prowling publications I might want to submit to — and seeing other people’s writing.

But I have collected a few short bits to share over the last few months. There’s no theme tying these together, just pieces I’ve liked.

Much of my short-form creative content reading comes through Substack at the moment. But there’s no editorial direction and finding worthy writers feels like an exercise in stumbling upon things. It’s also mostly non-fiction and frequently more serious thought than simply enjoyable reading.

I’ve avoided Substack for half of these works, which I’ll take as a win as the platform has become nearly ubiquitous. (Roxane Gay, Dr Jen Gunter, and my friend Kate who writes about creativity are my recommendations there, if you’re wondering. Along with Andrew Knapp who’s behind the Find Momo books in the photo above.)

Things I’m Holding (for You)‘ by Kayleigh Shoen

In short
Yup, it’s really short. Less than 125 words. But there’s a lot to it and no way to summarise it without spoilers.

My take
I’ve re-read this again and again and notice something a little different each time. The pacing, the repetition, the trio of capital letters. The sheer skill of delivering so much in so little. And a perfectly chosen, super hard-working title. Love it.

Riddle‘ by Ogbewe Amadin

In short
The first-person narrator ponders witchcraft in this Nigerian piece that feels wonderfully like folklore.

My take
At under 1,200 words, it’s hard to believe the depth of atmosphere and community Amadin creates. And the sense of hope for the narrator’s future. Since writing about a Danish bookshop that received a shipment meant for a Nigerian store, I’ve been seeking out more African literature. This is a great way to dip a toe in.

Close the Cabinet‘ by Starina Catchatoorian

In short
A short (a little below 1,600 words) ‘First-Person Singular’ (yes, it’s on Substack) piece revolving around a tense fight over tomato soup.

My take
A punchy look at childhood wounds and the writer’s domestic reality. The personal photo and clear details make it hit even harder.

Advertising for Campbell's Tomato Soup, c. 1920s.
Diabolus Ex Machina: This Is Not An Essay‘ by Amanda Guinzburg

In short
A series of screenshots from a writer’s interaction with Chat GPT. Predictably, the AI churns out a whole bunch of falsehoods. (The second piece from Substack.)

My take
Ugh. A warning of what the future looks like? Steer clear of the comments unless, as my friend Louise said, you enjoy being horrified by people.


Other selected short reading

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2 thoughts on “Selected short reading (vol. 8)”

  1. I really like this way of staying connected to reading, even if you’re not actively writing atm. Thanks for sharing these — and by the way, I really like the picture you chose for this post! 😉

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