Rumors of Water: Thoughts on Creativity & Writing

An Annie Dillard-style writing book that follows the writer's life as much as her philosophy about creativity and writing.

Aspiring and accomplished writers will find a place to breathe, in both the memoir-stories and tips that seamlessly address major aspects of creative life—from inspiration to individual voice; from helpful habits, networking and publishing, to reasons we create and write.

Says the first chapter, "There are so many things standing in my way this morning, I can hardly begin. Yet I've heard there are rumors of water. Maybe that is enough." And apparently it is.

••• twice named a Best Book of 2011, Englewood Review of Books and Hearts & Minds Books

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"A few brave writers pull back the curtain to show us their creative process. Annie Dillard did this. So did Hemingway. Now L.L. Barkat has given us a thoroughly modern analysis of writing. Practical, yes, but also a gentle uncovering of the art of being a writer."

--Gordon Atkinson, author Turtles All the Way Down

"The real beauty of this book is the truth it teaches slant: good and beautiful and honest writing comes from a life that pursues the same. This is not just a book about writing well, it's a book about living well."

--Leslie Leyland Fields, author of Surviving the Island of Grace and The Spirit of Food