Dear Readers,
Welcome to my new newsletter, which I will send out bi-weekly. My letter will inform you of my writing projects, stories, blog posts, and poetry. You may even find something that inspires you.
Thank you so much for reading!
THIS WEEK’S
FEATURED STORIES
Science Fiction Magic?
A few years ago, my cousin and I were waiting for the subway and riffing off each other’s ideas for Black Mirror episodes. I just love the brilliance of that show, and I wondered if I could write science fiction that reads like magical realism. So I re-published a short story (or first chapter, potentially) titled “One Percent.”
One reader commented: “This reminded me of a Black Mirror episode, but with a supernatural spec––the telepathy. I also enjoyed the atmosphere. The concept is really cool! I wanted to read more!”
Maybe you’ll enjoy it too and convince me to continue writing it.
Here’s an excerpt:
“Everyone meets online these days,” Melanie said.
“I know, but this seems way more complicated than using Match or OK Cupid.” Lauren sipped her coffee and laughed at Melanie. She was always trying to set her up!
“Just try it- I know it seems a little scary, but it really isn’t. Actually, I have found my real matches here. I mean, you do not want to meet up with just anyone, do you?”
Nodding, Lauren avoided eye contact with Melanie.
“Besides, Melanie said, “You can just delete it if you don’t pass the Portent. But I know you, and I know you will get in. You are one of us.”
Sky Collection Poetry & Quote Prompt
Sky Collection is one of my publications on Medium. In addition, I host monthly Quote Prompts and publish a wide variety of poetry, fiction, and personal narratives by new and established writers.
After returning from a yoga retreat on the NC coast, I wrote the poem “Cycles of Darkness.” It explores the idea of embracing the shadow parts of ourselves after this quote:
“Be careful, lest in casting out your demon you exorcise the best thing in you.” — Frederick Nietzsche.
Here is the first stanza:
she walks about the sand
here, a piper is her grandfather
finishing dripped touches
on a Gaudi castle
Project Updates
Exactly a year ago, I released my first poetry collection, Reaching Marrakesh. My goal is to bring my second book of poems Sky Collection to life by the end of the year. Thank you so much for your support!
Two other books are brewing:
One is a collection of dark and chilling short stories and poetry, currently untitled.
The other is a chapbook of prose-poetry entitled, Don’t Tell Grandma.
Did you know you can read endless stories by myself and many other inspiring writers on Medium? Consider upgrading to a monthly subscription here.
Follow along on my writing journey and be in touch here.
That’s all for now. Thank you so much for reading and supporting my writing work. If you enjoy it, please consider sharing it with a friend or your sister.
Love, Sam
Samantha Lazar, Writer 