Good day, readers. Today is November 18th, the 323rd day of the year 2024, with 42 days remaining.
“The only way of discovering the limits of the possible is to venture a little way past them into the impossible.” — Arthur C. Clarke
Today in Literary History:
On this day in 1926, A.A. Milne’s beloved children’s book “Winnie-the-Pooh” was first published in the United States. The adventures of Winnie the Pooh, Christopher Robin, and their friends in the Hundred Acre Wood have become timeless classics, delighting generations of readers with their gentle humor and wisdom.
Notable Birthdays:
Margaret Atwood, born on November 18, 1939, is a Canadian poet, novelist, literary critic, and essayist. Atwood is best known for her novels “The Handmaid’s Tale” and “Oryx and Crake,” which explore themes of gender, power, and dystopia.
Today’s Readings:
From “The Handmaid’s Tale” by Margaret Atwood: “We were the people who were not in the papers. We lived in the blank white spaces at the edges of print. It gave us more freedom. We lived in the gaps between the stories.”
Literary Fact of the Day:
On November 18th, 1926, George Bernard Shaw’s play “Saint Joan” premiered in New York City. This historical drama about Joan of Arc was a critical success and contributed to Shaw’s reputation as one of the greatest playwrights of his time.
Advice for Writers:
Arthur C. Clarke’s quote encourages us to push beyond the boundaries of what seems possible. In your writing, challenge yourself to explore new ideas and imaginative scenarios that stretch the limits of conventional thought. This can lead to innovative and compelling stories that captivate your readers.
Wishing you a day of boundary-pushing writing and inspired creativity, dear readers. Until tomorrow, may your literary endeavors be as bold and visionary as the impossible dreams you dare to explore.
I’ve always loved that I share a birthday with Margaret Atwood!
Neat! She is great!