I’m so delighted to have Susan Weidener as a guest on Choices. Her words about writing – Write What Is Relevant to You – are so helpful and true. Please read about the book she is working on now, which she calls true-life fiction, and the ways she advices her group, the Women’s Writing Circle, how to hone in their writing.
I certainly can attest to Susan’s excellent writing. I read her memoir, Morning at Wellington Square, in about two days. I couldn’t put it down. Please click here to read my review.
Please welcome Susan Weidener.

Susan, I’m of the same mind as you to write about what’s relevant in your life – that way you get to bring passion to your story. When I started my w.i.p. novel, I had various ideas for a story, social issues I feel strongly about. Then I decided to stir them all into the same pot and see what comes out – the result was surprising, even to me; it all hangs together as a compelling story about war, rape and intergenerational shame.
Congratulations, Belinda. Your w.i.p. sounds wonderful. Can’t wait to read it.
Thanks for coming by Choices. Hugs, M.
Belinda, I love how our stories lead to self-discovery, renewal and – as you say – a passion that makes us energized as soon as we get up in the morning and want – no need – to write. It sounds like are in the “groove” with your work-in-progress. How exciting! Love to hear more about how it all came together for you.
Best,
Susan
Susan, I didn’t even know what my story was until I wrote many vignettes then attempted to string them together. Your sage advice is greatly appreciated about” finding meaning in your life story then make it bigger than you.”Your WIP true life novel sounds fascinating. I’ve come to believe that the story that needs to be told reveals itself in time if we show up, keep writing and stay out of its way. Thank you, as always , for sharing your wisdom and knowledge. They are “pearls” You have kicked off Madeline’s guest post series in style!
Dear Kathy, It is true what you say, especially the importance of writing every day, even if it means revising a paragraph or two and thinking about it for the rest of the day. Revision, redrafting, revision . . . but keep it creative, spontaneous and real. I am so happy to hear that your story is leading you into ever richer pastures.
Susan, beautifully written post heralding once again the telling of our story. I like the idea of writing what is relevant to me, as in my story is what is relevant. At least for today, until my story changes because life changes, and so on. Thanks for sharing that word relevant as it relates to writing.
Thank you, Sherrey. As we write we find what compels us to tell our stories – the themes can change and move from grief to the joy of a mountain sunset. Writing is a dynamic process. Good luck in your own writing journey and discovering what is relevant to you and meaningful to your readers.
Kathy and Sherrey, Thanks for being here to herald Susan’s very wise words about life story writing. We are so lucky to have each other for sharing our expertise.
Thanks again, Susan, for telling your writing life story with us.
It has been my pleasure and honor, Madeline. I am enjoying the posts of other writers during you blog fest! Way to go, bringing us all together like this.