Good day, readers. Today is March 18th, the 77th day of the year 2024, with 289 days remaining.
“As the chill of winter lingers, March hints at the thaw, beckoning the early signs of spring’s gentle return.”
John Keats
Today in Literary History:
On this day in 1848, Kate Chopin, an American author known for her audacious exploration of female independence, was born. Her most famous work, The Awakening, stands as a pioneering piece in feminist literature, depicting a woman’s struggle against the societal norms of the late 19th century.
Notable Birthdays:
John Updike (March 18, 1932 – January 27, 2009), an American novelist and critic famous for his richly descriptive prose and deep insights into the American middle class, was born on this day. His series of novels about the character Harry “Rabbit” Angstrom are considered major achievements in contemporary American literature.
Today’s Readings:
From The Awakening by Kate Chopin:
“She was beginning to realize her own perceptions, to see and feel the full weight of her position in the universe as human being, and to perceive the deep responsibilities and consequences of such a position.”
Literary Fact of the Day:
On this day in 1893, poet Wilfred Owen, renowned for his wrenching depictions of the horrors of World War I, was born. His works, including “Dulce et Decorum Est” and “Anthem for Doomed Youth,” provide stark, powerful insights into the brutal realities of trench warfare and its psychological impact on soldiers.
Reflection:
As we navigate the lingering cool of March, let the compelling narratives of Kate Chopin and John Updike inspire us to explore more deeply the themes of personal freedom and societal expectations. These themes resonate as much today as they did in their times, offering rich terrain for reflection and discussion.
Poem of the Day:
“Early Spring” by Shelly Wagner:
Once more,
Through open fields of wildflowers,
A pleasant undertow of undertuned,
Underfoot blooms.
And the earth stirs.
Advice for Writers:
Reflect on the transitions inherent in your own life and how these might be woven into your narratives. Take inspiration from Chopin’s and Updike’s probing of social and personal boundaries, exploring how your characters confront and sometimes transcend their own limitations.
May your thoughts be as invigorating as the emerging spring, and your words as impactful as those of the writers we remember today. Until tomorrow, may your pen and spirit find the renewal promised by this season.