Writeful

a weblog for readers and writers

Monday, March 18, 2024

To Battle: A Civil-War Tour of Gettysburg” in Baltimore Style Magazine

 

“To Battle: A Civil-War Tour of Gettysburg” has been published on the Baltimore Style Magazine website.

We explored the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum, walked the historic battlefield, and paid our respects at the Soldiers’ National Cemetery. We also visited key sites like the David Wills House and the Eisenhower National Historic Site.

Read more about our experience and the town's significant Civil War history: https://www.baltimorestyle.com/to-battle-a-civil-war-tour-of-gettysburg/

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Monday, March 04, 2024

In Conversation with Sally Whitney published on Book Smuggler’s Den

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The Book Smuggler’s Den published an interview with Sally Whitney and me talking about our novels, writing processes, and more. 


Setting, history, culture, diverse characters, research, where ideas come from, and the writing process are all covered in the article. We also discuss my first adventure thriller and the locations I went to get the facts precise, as well as why fiction is important. 


Check out the full interview at https://booksmugglersden.com/portfolio/authors-goodman-and-whitney/ 


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Monday, February 19, 2024

“Two Wrongs, Making a Right” in The Five-Two

The Five-Two has published my poem "Two Wrongs, Making a Right."

"Two Wrongs, Making a Right" was inspired by the idea of raising the stakes in a situation many of us have experienced - getting pulled over for speeding. The poem goes beyond that and explores the consequences of one's actions and the potential for redemption.

Read “Two Wrongs, Making a Right” in The Five-Two at the link below:

https://poemsoncrime.blogspot.com/2023/04/eric-d-goodman.html

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Monday, February 12, 2024

A Weekend in Nashville: Music, Food and Fun for Everyone” in Baltimore Style Magazine

 

My travel story, "A Weekend in Nashville: Music, Food and Fun for Everyone," has been featured in Baltimore Style Magazine. It's an exploration of Nashville's unique character, showcasing its music scene, delicious cuisine, and engaging cultural experiences. 

Get an insight into the city's historical landmarks and renowned music venues, along with its diverse food scene by visiting Baltimore Style Magazine and reading the story: https://www.baltimorestyle.com/a-weekend-in-nashville-music-food-and-fun-for-everyone/ 

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Monday, February 05, 2024

Another McEwan Coincidence

 

British author Ian McEwan, perhaps best known for his novel Atonement, has experienced coincidence fitting for one of his novels. For example, when he discovered that he had a long-lost half-brother. (See my earlier post.)


Here’s another coincidence: Ian McEwan released his novel-in-utero, Nutshell, within the same 12-month period as two others with the same point of view — including my own, Womb: a novel in utero.


What are the odds? I started the first draft of my novel narrated from within the womb about 10 years before it was published. I even had excerpts from it published in literary journals years before the novel was completed, submitted, and published. And yet, three books with very different takes on the same unique narrator were published in such close proximity. 


Nutshell and Womb: a novel in utero were even compared to one another in essays, reviews, and Library Journal


Learn more about Ian McEwan’s books in Library Journal.

https://www.libraryjournal.com/?authorName=McEwan%2C%20Ian


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Thursday, February 01, 2024

Raven Reading

 


It looks like Taylor brought along some reading material to last week's Ravens Game!

Readers gonna read; get your copy today!

http://www.tracksnovel.com/animals.html





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Monday, January 29, 2024

Five Recent Poems in The Fictional Cafe



Five new poems were published in The Fictional Cafe.

In "Knights that Pass in the Ship," we see the contrasting perspectives of two knights. One is constantly on the lookout for danger, while the other chooses to savor the view, exposing his heart to potential harm. It's a reflection on how we each choose to navigate the world.

"Newsworthy" is a commentary on the overwhelming amount of devastating news that often overshadows personal achievements. It was inspired by the day my first book was published, a joyous occasion that seemed insignificant amidst the world's tragedies.

"Buried Reason" is a contemplation on the cycle of life and death. I draw parallels between the burial of the dead and the fertilization of the earth, highlighting the interconnectedness of all life forms.

In "Systolic," I reflect on the impact of work-related stress on health. The poem was inspired by a personal experience, where I noticed a rise in my blood pressure upon returning to work after a relaxing staycation.

Finally, "Backyard Weeds" is a meditation on our place in the world. I suggest that humans are no more consequential than the weeds in our backyard, a humbling reminder of our place in the grand scheme of things.
 

Read poems in The Fictional Cafe at the following link: https://www.fictionalcafe.com/week-4-eric-forsbergh-susan-simonds-and-eric-goodman/

Monday, January 22, 2024

Sparks of Calliope Publish Two Recent Poems


Two of my recent poems, "As for the Ticket" and "Thanks for the Socks," have been published in Sparks of Calliope: A Journal of Poetic Observations.

Sparks of Calliope is known for its emphasis on reflective and thought-provoking poetry.  Hopefully these two poems, and others included in the issue, will give you something to think about.

You can find the poems at the following link: https://sparksofcalliope.com/2023/10/25/two-poems-by-eric-d-goodman/ 


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Monday, January 15, 2024

"Control" and "Social Media Boycott" published in Bourgeon Literary Journal


"Control" and "Social Media Boycott" published in Bourgeon Literary Journal.

"Control" is a reflection on our relationship with technology and the ease with which we often surrender control to it. It's a commentary on our reliance on digital tools and the longing for someone else to navigate the complexities of life for us.

"Social Media Boycott," on the other hand, explores our connection with social media and the impact it has on our lives. It delves into the anticipation of birthday greetings on our electronic wall and the sense of loss when a social media boycott coincides with a personal celebration.

Find the poems in Bourgeon Literary Journalhttps://bourgeononline.com/2023/05/two-poems-by-eric-d-goodman-2/ 

Monday, January 08, 2024

Yorkshire to Publish Poetry Collection

Big news on the publishing front! My first book of poetry, Faraway Tables, is being released by Yorkshire Publishing in spring 2024! The acceptance even came with a modest advance. 

Although I have written poetry before, I’ve focused most of my writing career primarily on prose: fiction and creative non-fiction. As the pandemic found many of us shuttered up in our homes, I found myself drawn to poetry—reading it and writing it. It would seem that being home and no longer needing to commute would provide more time for long-form writing, but I felt as though I had less focus time during the pandemic than before. This is partially what attracted me to poetry. 

Poetry seems a perfect form for today’s society—short, concise, and able to get a point or feeling or idea across succinctly. That appealed to me as a reader, and especially as a writer. Rather than jot down and file away ideas that came to me for future stories, novels, or plot development, I was able to use them as the basis for poetry.

The pandemic was also a time to question life as we know it, to reminisce about life as we knew it, and to consider what life will be as we emerge back into a new normalcy. Poems proved an ideal vehicle for such a mood and frame of mind.

The result, for me, is my first collection of poetry—Faraway Tables.

About 40 of the poems from Faraway Tables have been published or accepted for publication in literary journals, magazines, both online and in print. Many of them have been or will be shared here.

Stay tuned to www.Writeful.blogspot.com for more details as they become available.

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Wednesday, January 03, 2024

My Lithuania Story in Baltimore Style Magazine

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Before I set part of my novel, Wrecks and Ruins, in Lithuania, I visited the nation myself and wrote some travel stories about my time there.


Explore my travel story and photographs published in Baltimore Style Magazine: “Lithuania, You Say?”


It’s a sneak peek at some of the settings you’ll find in Wrecks and Ruins

https://www.baltimorestyle.com/lithuania/


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Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Chatting With Authors

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Thousands of writers at all levels—from beginners to seasoned experts—join together to share and learn at writing conferences across the nation and around the world. I have fond memories of cutting my teeth at some of these conferences, such as the  Annual Maryland Writers Conference.


My own session went well.  I participated in a panel discussion on marketing your writing.  Joining me were authors Austin Camacho, Diane Marquette, and Peter Abresch. We provided tips on our own unique ways of marketing our writing to new audiences — through blogs, articles, book signings, book readings, conferences, social media, and more.


The highlight of one Maryland Writers Conference was the keynote address by author Thomas F. Montelone.  Tom is the author of more than thirty books and has published more than 100 stories.  He’s also the author of The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Writing a Novel.  


I had the pleasure of chatting with Tom over coffee during the conference for about half an hour.  But I didn’t conduct an interview since I knew that there were already two great ones out there by fellow conference-goers.


Read an interview with Tom conducted by Nancy O. Greene at The Writer’s Block here.


http://writersgroupblog.wordpress.com/2008/04/29/interview-with-thomas-f-monteleone-multiple-bram-stoker-award-winner/

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Monday, December 18, 2023

"Fire Pit Season" and "Hammer," published on North of Oxford.


I'm excited to share two of my latest poems, "Fire Pit Season" and "Hammer," which were published on North of Oxford.

"Fire Pit Season" is a reflection of my observations of nature as it transitions into the cooler season. From squirrels opting for softer acorns to deer sampling the meaty red berries of dogwood trees.

On the other hand, "Hammer" is a stark commentary on the atrocities that occur daily in our world. It juxtaposes the comfort of our everyday lives with the harsh realities faced by others, aiming to provoke thought and introspection.

Learn more: 
https://northofoxford.wordpress.com/2023/06/07/two-poems-by-eric-d-goodman/

Monday, December 11, 2023

“Nostalgia” in Syndic Literary Journal


My poem suite, Nostalgia,  has found a home in Syndic Literary Journal.

In the same issue, you’ll also find translations by Menke Katz.

Nostalgia includes five poems that look over the shoulder to other times and places. Listen to “Layover,” “Toast to Friendship,” “Just Enough,” “Last Call,” and “Moments” in Syndic Literary Journal at the link below: 

https://www.syndicjournal.us/syndic-narrations-cloudburst-8-poems-by-menke-katz-narrated-in-english-translation/

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Monday, December 04, 2023

The Lit & Art Reading Series


I'm excited to announce that the next event in the Lit & Art Reading Series will take place on Saturday, December 9 from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. on the 11th floor of the Bromo Seltzer Arts Tower!

This will be the first Lit & Art since the pandemic hit. The event is free and open to the public.

The Lit & Art Reading Series has been showcasing the talents of local, regional, and national authors, poets, musicians, and artists since 2007—making us the longest-running literary salon series in Baltimore. This is our first event since January 2020, before the pandemic.

Join us at the Bromo Seltzer Arts Tower on Saturday, December 9 from 12:30 to 2:30!

Nitin Jagdish and I will host the event.

Judith Krummeck of WBJC will emcee the event.

Featured readers include Charles Rammelkamp, Diane Sahms, g emil reutter, and Lauren Eisenberg Davis.

Musical guest is Pinto (Andrew Laughland and Tom Jackson); they will perform songs between readings.

There is an opportunity to share your work during open mic.

While here, you can enjoy the art gallery and a tour of this iconic Baltimore landmark!

Learn more about the Lit & Art event and the featured talent at the Lit & Art Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LitAndArt

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Monday, November 27, 2023

A new story published in Loch Raven Review

The Loch Raven Review's latest issue, now available online, includes an assortment of literary pieces from several authors. Among the featured works is my story, "Attaché." 

This issue features the work of such poets, authors, and reviewers as Charles Rammelkamp, CL Bledsoe, Rosalia Scalia, Caryn Coyle, Shirley Brewer, Celia Bell, Dan Cuddy, and Susan Reslwic Keatley. 

Visit the link below to read my story, "Attaché," and the other collected works. The entire issue is available for readers at the following link:

https://thelochravenreview.net/current-issue-6/?fbclid=IwAR0uAVElBFuxpBVzWqSBZCdKfSezgX6hM9oBy1iMy3MotDImHdJdr4Ef0rs_aem_Aa8LnHOviheHwbRd3WaiCzwAgRCSWtkahB_elZQWUEj6askvcwKgq1amZdOvwj_LANs

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Monday, November 20, 2023

"Zakopane, Wielczka, and Wroclaw," part two of my travel story on Poland, published in inTravel Magazine


The adventure across Poland continued with visits to Zakopane, Wieliczka, and Wroclaw. Zakopane, known as the winter capital of Poland, offered a unique blend of local culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. The highlight was a hike in the Tatra Mountains, providing breathtaking views and encounters with local wildlife.

Next, the journey led to Wieliczka, home to the famous Wieliczka Salt Mine. This UNESCO World Heritage Site amazed with its underground city, all carved out of rock salt. The mine featured chapels, sculptures, and even a lake, all underground and made from salt.

The final stop was Wroclaw, a city known for its beautiful architecture and numerous bridges. The Market Square, with its colorful buildings, was a vibrant center of activity. The visit also included a fun city game of searching for the Wroclaw dwarfs – small figurines scattered throughout the city.

Throughout the journey, the bond between father and son strengthened, and the shared experiences created memories that would last a lifetime.

Learn more by reading "Zakopane, Wielczka, and Wroclaw," part two of my travel story on Poland in inTravel Magazine: https://www.intravelmag.com/intravel/in-depth/zakopane-wieliczka-and-wroclaw-poland

Monday, November 06, 2023

Sandra Brown Writes What She Likes

 

When you have more than 80 novels to your name—many of them bestsellers — you can write whatever you like. That’s what author Sandra Brown suggests every writer do.


"You have to write what you like. It's too hard and time consuming not to enjoy the work. You have to write what you'd like to read.”


And what does she like? In the beginning, she wrote romance novels that followed constrained outlines and formulas. "It’s more fun and more lucrative to write my own stuff for a broader audience." She's written under four pen names — but now, everything is published under Sandra Brown.


She still has a heart for romance, but now she also writes thrillers and mysteries. “A good writer won’t be pigeonholed into one genre. A good writer should stretch out.”


You can stretch out at Sandra’s website.

http://www.sandrabrown.net/


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Monday, October 30, 2023

Part one of "Pierogi and Palaces: A Father-Son Adventure in Poland" featured in inTravel Magazine!

My son, Alex, and I embarked on an unforgettable journey across five Polish cities. Our adventure began and ended in the capital city of Warsaw, a place rich in history and culture.

Upon our arrival, we were greeted by the bustling city center, home to the tallest building in Poland, Stalin’s Palace of Culture and Science, and the famously out-of-place palm tree, an art installation by Joanna Rajkowska. We traveled down the Royal Route, once tread by kings during their coronation and funeral marches, now lined with cafes, shops, museums, and the Warsaw University.

Our journey led us to the heart of Warsaw, the Old Town. The Old Market Square, a vibrant hub filled with street cafes, artists, and people from all walks of life, was a sight to behold. The square, lined with beautifully colored buildings, was a feast for the eyes. The ground floors bustled with stores, restaurants, and vendors, offering everything from ice cream to freshly baked bread.

At the center of the square stood Warsaw’s protector: the mermaid, a symbol present on Warsaw’s coat of arms since the 1300s. As Alex and I admired the statue, we realized that our adventure in Poland was more than just a vacation. It was a journey through history, culture, and the vibrant life of a city that welcomed us with open arms.

Learn more by reading Part One of my in-depth travel story, "Pierogi and Palaces: A Father-Son Adventure in Poland," in a recent issue of inTravel Magazine!

https://www.intravelmag.com/intravel/in-depth/pierogi-and-palaces-a-father-son-adventure-in-poland

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Monday, October 16, 2023

My Lisbon story in the print version of Washington Family Magazine


Whether you're flying from Washington DC or anywhere else in the country, check out my travel story on authentic, affordable, and family friendly Lisbon in the print version of Washington Family Magazine (on pages 14, 15, 16).

From the Alfama to Belem; food to fado, this story has something for everyone in the family!

http://digital.washingtonfamily.com/issues/June-2023/index.html

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Monday, October 02, 2023

Fostering a Love of Literature

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A subject that often comes up when I'm talking with other book lovers is the sad fact that, although there are more writers and more books being published these days, there are fewer readers who read for pleasure.


I once attended a lecture put together by the National Endowment for the Arts all about reading in decline in America.


These days, books don't just compete with one another – they  must compete with streaming content, television, movies, video games, the Internet, social media, smartphones, and every other form of entertainment available.  With today's short attention spans and "quick scan" reading habits, fewer and fewer people take the time to  settle down with a good book.


That's why it's important to share the love of literature with your children.


When my children were younger, I tried to read to them every night.  With my younger  son, we focused on basic classics: Dr. Seuss, Eric Carl, Shel Silverstein, and a bit of Bob the Builder.  I did most of the actual reading.


With my older daughter, we took turns reading.  One night, she'd read to me.  The next, I'd read to her.  We usually had two books going at a time.  Books like Mark Twain's A Connecticut Yankee in King Aurthur's Court and The Little Prince by Antoine De Saint-Exupery.


Would they rather be playing with her friends, scrolling social media, or watching a Disney or superhero movie? Sometimes. But there's no denying they enjoyed reading and to be read to.  It was a before-bedtime ritual I hope they’ll always remember.


Do you read to your kids?  It's a great way to spend quality time together.  It's also a wonderful way to foster a love for literature.

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Monday, September 18, 2023

To Battle! Gettysburg story published in the print edition of Baltimore Style magazine


To Battle! My Gettysburg story was published in the print edition of Baltimore Style Magazine (on pages 12, 13, 14).


Our family recently had the opportunity to visit Gettysburg, a small town in Pennsylvania known for its pivotal role in the American Civil War. With the 160th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg in 2023, we were among the millions of visitors drawn to this historic site.


Our visit included a tour of the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center, a walk through the Gettysburg Battlefield, and a moment of respect at the Soldiers’ National Cemetery. We also visited the David Wills House, where President Abraham Lincoln finalized his famous Gettysburg Address, and the Eisenhower National Historic Site, the former home of President Dwight D. Eisenhower.


Read more about our visit in Baltimore Style Magazine: http://digital.baltimorestyle.com/issues/June-2023/index.html 

 

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Friday, September 08, 2023

Moonstone Arts Center Hosts Virtual Poetry Event

Labor Day may have passed, but there are still ways to celebrate (or bemoan) labor. How about a labor-themed virtual poetry reading?

My poem, “Pests,” is being published in the labor-themed anthology Which Side Are You On, available for purchase on October 1.

This Sunday, September 10, poets featured in the anthology will share their work in a virtual poetry reading. The event is free to attend; you just need to register.

Join me and a number of other poets as we share our workplace-related poetry.

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcsf-GgpzItGtEprSH7oS_w4fC9ME9T9R37#/registration


 

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Monday, September 04, 2023

Stranger than Fiction

 

Ian McEwan, one of Britain’s most popular authors, has a story to tell. It may seem like a plot right out of one of his novels — but it's actually from his real life.


In 1942, before Ian was even born, his father went to war. During that time, his mother had an affair with another officer — Ian's future father. They had a baby. To hide any sign of the affair, she gave the baby up, handing it over to strangers on a railroad station platform. Later, her husband died in Normandy and she married Ian’s father.


Several years ago, Ian and his brother David reunited. Up until then, Ian had no clue there was another brother in the family. David offered the famous author the opportunity to write the interesting story—but Ian declined, telling him it was his story to tell. Now there are two writers in the family.


For the whole story, see Alan Cowell’s article in The New York Times.


http://www.nytimes.com/2007/01/18/books/18mcew.html?ex=1326776400&en=d8e7f6045beff4a7&ei=5088&partner=rssnyt&emc=rss

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Monday, August 21, 2023

Family-Friendly Portugal Story Published in Baltimore's Child Magazine


My Portugal story published in Baltimore's Child Magazine (on pages 20, 21, 22). 

Join us as we explore Lisbon, a city rich in history and culture. From the historic Alfama neighborhood to the panoramic views from the Castelo de São Jorge.

Find the magazine and read about our fascinating destinations:
http://digital.baltimoreschild.com/issues/June-2023/index.html

Monday, August 07, 2023

When Your Novel In Progress Does Not

 

When I met author Alice McDermott for the first time, it was at a craft lecture she was presenting at The Writers’ Center in Bethesda, Maryland. The topic of the craft lecture was, “When Your Novel-in-Progress Doesn’t.”


Most authors who have written a novel — or tried to — can relate to that.


Alice McDermott, despite her two Pulitzer Prize nominations, her National Book Award win, and her regular trips onto the New York Times Bestseller list, is no exception.


“I was in middle-book syndrome,” she explained. She was halfway through a novel, she knew where it was headed, but she didn’t want to finish it.


“The best practice is to write through your reluctance to continue — even if you begin writing a different story, keep writing.”


That’s what Alice did. She shelved the project she was no longer interested in and focused on another.


So if you’ve lost interest in what you’re writing, perhaps it’s time to move on to something new. If your novel-in-progress is not progressing, move on.


Learn more about Alice McDermott’s words of writing wisdom at the following links.


http://writeful.blogspot.com/2007/07/writing-to-convey-pain-and-sweetness-of.html 



http://writeful.blogspot.com/2005/11/mcdermott-on-flow-of-words.html


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