Good day, readers. Today is March 12th, the 71st day of the year 2024, with 295 days remaining.
“March weaves a slow thaw into its days, hinting at spring’s return with each sunnier afternoon and gentler breeze.”
Henry David Thoreau
Today in Literary History:
On this day in 1922, Jack Kerouac, a pioneer of the Beat Generation whose spontaneous prose style shaped modern American literature, was born. His most famous work, On the Road, captures the restless spirit of his generation and continues to inspire those who seek to challenge societal norms.
Notable Birthdays:
Virginia Hamilton (March 12, 1936 – February 19, 2002), an American children’s author whose works focused on the African-American experience, was also born on this day. Her storytelling, rich with cultural heritage and history, earned her numerous awards, including a John Newbery Medal.
Today’s Readings:
From On the Road by Jack Kerouac:
“…the only people for me are the mad ones, the ones who are mad to live, mad to talk, mad to be saved, desirous of everything at the same time, the ones who never yawn or say a commonplace thing, but burn, burn, burn like fabulous yellow roman candles exploding like spiders across the stars.”
Literary Fact of the Day:
On this day in 1888, the Great Blizzard of 1888 hit the northeastern United States, causing unprecedented snowfall and severe weather that led to over 400 deaths. This historic storm has been depicted in numerous works of fiction and nonfiction, often serving as a dramatic backdrop for tales of survival and human endurance.
Reflection:
As we appreciate the burgeoning warmth of March, let the spirit of adventure and exploration in Kerouac’s writings invigorate our own journeys. Whether through physical travel or the exploration of new ideas and emotions, let us embrace the unpredictable and vibrant path of personal growth and understanding.
Poem of the Day:
“Dear March – Come in -” by Emily Dickinson:
Dear March – Come in –
How glad I am –
I hoped for you before –
Put down your Hat –
You must have walked –
How out of Breath you are –
Advice for Writers:
Channel the dynamic energy of Jack Kerouac and the cultural depth of Virginia Hamilton in your writing. Consider how personal journeys, whether physical or emotional, can intersect with broader cultural narratives to create compelling stories that resonate with diverse audiences.
May your day be filled with creativity and the promise of new discoveries. Until tomorrow, may your pen and your spirit be as adventurous as the winding roads ahead.