Hello Dogpatchers! I just read this blog post by an editor/writer from a group called Write on Mamas. They are professional writers (and those just beginning their writing journey) in the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond. I think the post contains some valuable insights about “beautiful writing” and what the editor learned while shepherding the group’s first anthology into publication.
So often, a piece can be beautifully written (crafted) but feel lacking. A loooooo-n-g time ago, I took a poetry workshop and spent a great portion of the time discussing whether certain poems had “duende.” Here’s Wikipedia’s definition of the word:
Duende or tener duende (“having duende”) loosely means having soul, a heightened state of emotion, expression and authenticity, often connected with flamenco. [1] The artistic and especially musical term was derived from the duende, a fairy or goblin-like creature in Spanish mythology.
I think this is sometimes the missing element in what would otherwise be called “beautiful writing.” So here’s hoping you are all out there inviting that little fairy goblin into your work.
Link to the blog post:
http://writeonmamas.com/tips-on-editing/
Write on Mamas’ new anthology:
Dogpatch Writers Collective 
Thanks for passing this on, Jill. I really like Janine’s tips list. And I love the book cover.
Yes, it was really nicely done.
I love the idea of inviting a fairy goblin into my writing. It is magical when it flows. Thanks for highlighting our anthology.
Yes, I am all for magic when it comes to adding that certain something. You are quite welcome. Thanks for taking part in its creation.
Thanks for the shout out, Jilanne. I love the concept of duende. I only know of it in terms of dance. Never occurred to me to apply it to writing and it is so apt.
My pleasure, Janine. I’m trying to figure out a way to get to Scribbles n Sips this Sunday. My husband is out of town and has left me a single parent for the next couple weeks. Trying to work out the child playdate details right now. Hope it works. I’ve joined the group and am looking forward to meeting everyone.
Fantastic! I look forward to meeting you and hope it all works out!
Great post and wonderful news. Mamas (and Grandmamas) learn so much about life and are changed forever by hanging around with the little ones.
I love how you referenced duende. Have your read Lorca’s In Search of Duende? Marvelous! Also, if you have time, I wrote a post on duende when we were in Spain. It’s very tangible there in Andalucía. http://stilllifewithtortillas.com/2013/06/06/is-it-tuesday-or-duende/
Thanks, Susan! I just picked up a copy of the Lorca book, and I’m headed over to your site to take a look at your post. Graçias!