Good day, readers. Today is March 8th, the 67th day of the year 2024, with 299 days remaining.
Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one’s courage.
Anaïs Nin
Today in Literary History:
On this day in 1841, Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr., an American jurist and Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, was born. Though primarily known for his legal career, Holmes also contributed significantly to written discourse through his eloquent opinions and essays, which have been studied for both their philosophical depth and literary quality.
Notable Birthdays:
- Kenneth Grahame (March 8, 1859 – July 6, 1932), the Scottish novelist best known for The Wind in the Willows, was born on this day. His enchanting tales of the English countryside populated by anthropomorphic characters like Mole, Rat, and Toad have delighted generations of readers.
- Hines Ward (born March 8, 1976), though better known as a former NFL player, has also made contributions to literature through his autobiography and children’s books, focusing on themes of determination and the importance of diversity and acceptance.
Today’s Readings:
From The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams: “Don’t Panic. Life’s a lot less daunting if you can keep away from making too many big decisions all at once.”
Literary Fact of the Day:
International Women’s Day, celebrated globally on March 8th, is also a day to recognize the contributions of women writers throughout history. From Virginia Woolf to Toni Morrison, women have shaped literature with their unique perspectives and innovative narratives, often pushing against boundaries to tell their stories.
Reflection:
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let us reflect on the enduring impact of women in literature and the arts. Their courage to express the unspoken and explore the unexplored continues to inspire readers and writers around the world.
Poem of the Day:
Phenomenal Woman by Maya Angelou:
Pretty women wonder where my secret lies.
I’m not cute or built to suit a fashion model’s size
But when I start to tell them,
They think I’m telling lies.
I say,
It’s in the reach of my arms,
The span of my hips,
The stride of my step,
The curl of my lips.
I’m a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.
Advice for Writers:
Inspired by Kenneth Grahame, let the landscapes of your own experiences color your narratives. The settings you know best can serve as vivid backdrops for your stories, imbuing them with authenticity and emotional depth.
Have a thoughtful and creative day, dear readers. Until tomorrow, may your narratives be as inspiring as they are impactful.