Speaking of writers using materials in compelling ways, it just occurred to me that the Shelley Jackson currently making headlines (“Story in the Snow“) for her gorgeous snow project short story is the same woman responsible for the skin project! I remember yearning to be old enough to get a tattoo for the piece when it was announced in the early 2000s. While I’ve grown out of the phase since then (or have I?), the website says it’s still seeking participants…

Anyway, between the two, Jackson has chosen materials on nearly opposite ends of the spectrum of ephemerality, as well as the spectrum of public to private access — from photographing words in the snow to distributing words for volunteered to have tattooed. I’m sure there are many other factors to reflect on, as well. Do you all have other writers you admire for using materials creatively or non-traditionally to tell stories, etc.?

Unrelated to this post, another blast from the past: “Fear of Reading” (1992) brings me endless joy and was I was reminded of it in class last week via: “(d) Miscellaneous Bibliodysfunction: Aversion to the typeface used; an onslaught of shivers every time you touch the paper; thinking the book smells funny.”

Also: remember last summer when the creator of Comic Sans spoke out about his font?