'One Real Emotion'

Thank you, Tom. I wish I'd thought of visiting 185 again during Reunions. I'd forgotten its feel, but now I can clearly recall the aroma of mimeographed first drafts!

Russell Banks poo-pooed our attempts at fine writing. He pushed us to share at least "one real emotion" in a story, even if roughly conveyed. He was candid in critiquing his own early published work, admitting to us that he had first favored polish over "truth."

I think of him when I read. I recall his words when I struggle to be authentic.