Swipe File
I took a different approach to this week's newsletter and wrote out the best entries from my recent swipe file. A swipe file is supposed to be a source of inspiration that prompts creative output, so here are five things I found interesting this week. Maybe you'll find something that'll encourage your own stories.
Cassidy Randall wrote about Susie Goodall's attempt at the Golden Globe sailing race. The awesome adventure story was published in Atavist Magazine. Randall was also interviewed on the Creative Nonfiction Podcast where she spoke about her process, working with agents and editors, and rejection.
Nathan Allebach spoke about walkable communities.
John Muir Laws is a naturalist, artist, and journal writer. His video this week was from a trip to Point Reyes National Seashore and he spoke about including metadata in his journaling.
Piers Morgan interviewed Jordan Peterson. Near the beginning of the interview, Peterson commented on having honesty in your thoughts and your words. If you're honest, the consequences, good and bad, will be deserved, and the outcome will be your true adventure. If you're manipulating or trying to appease the crowd dishonestly, "I don't know whose adventure you're having, but it's not yours."
Sean Tucker spoke about the true definition of competition and why artists should be more competitive. By seeking together, we collaborate and support each other's work through honest criticism and encouragement. It isn't difficult to find parallels in every other part of our lives, from relationships with coworkers, to family, to politics.
My swipe file exists on a Notes entry on my phone. When I come across something that catches my eye or my ear, I pause for a moment to write it down. Looking back at the entries, all made independent from one another, I find it interesting to see a theme emerging in the things that have my attention. Adventure, encouragement, solitude, honesty, and self-reflection seem to be guiding my path at the moment.