Six Months of The Spark
Almost half a year ago I started my Substack, The Spark, and there’s a lot to reflect on since then.
Over the past six months I spotlighted some of my favorite books here, here, and here. I asked a batch of the buzziest writers (here, here, and here) to share the five things they’re loving right now. I revealed some of my tried and true writing exercises (and this one too). I took you behind the scenes of my book writing process to show you (the freak out stage and how the reason why you’re writing is just as important as what you’re writing and more).
Not only that but the Ignite Writers Collective turned five and we celebrated with clients and friends at the gorgeous Margot in Brooklyn.
What I love most about writing The Spark is that I can share what’s on my mind each week as I dive into my own writing and reading - and react to the questions my clients are grappling with, knowing that my readers are probably tackling the same questions too. I have a place to offer my expertise and my experiences for those who can’t afford a full class or don’t have the time in their schedule right now. And I get to hear back through the messages and comments on my posts what aspects of my work you’re all connecting with. It takes hours each week to create my newsletter, but the value is priceless because it connects me to my community.
So, thank you for joining me as a regular reader - and I’m grateful to those of you who have upgraded to paid. I appreciate you sharing and commenting. It shows me how much The Spark means to you too. If you’ve been waiting to upgrade, now’s the time because three out of four of my monthly newsletters - High Five, If You Read One Book This Month, and the Craft Lesson - will be going behind on a paywall starting next week.
I hate asking for money as much as the next person. And I wish I could offer my newsletter free forever. But my hope is that you get something out of The Spark each week and the community and resources ignite a dose of creativity and connection that translates onto the page.
XO
Ruthie
Go see Anni Albers at the Met.
I ate the Palacsinta (crepes) with sweet cheese and brown butter because Shauna Lyon told me to.
When you want to carry your book and your laptop. @Clare V.
Because IRL shopping is still a thing. @lolo.nyc
A traditional arts and crafts fair with flair (and you might even run into me this weekend!) @FIELD + SUPPLY
The documentary on Elliot Smith will bring you back to that time you saw him at Irving Plaza in 2000.
Jean skirts are cool again. And there’s even some at lower price points. @rachelcomey @lebonshoppe
If I won the lottery, my only question would be: which color should I get? @graymattersnyc
A negroni worth lining up at 5pm for. @sailornyc
How is this the first major retrospective of Vivan Maier’s incredible photography? @vivianmaierarchive
One day classes (If you want to buy all six Summer School classes for the price of five, DM Ruthie for a discount code)
Fill out this form to reserve your spot and I’ll reach out with payment details.
Bravo Ruthie!✨✨✨