Why read?

Because being a writer isn’t easy. And because there’s so much in Buddhist philosophy that can make it a little less hard.

I’ve been a writer far longer than I’ve been a Buddhist. But I think I’ve become a better (and possibly happier) writer since I became a Buddhist.

Writing Zen is about all the places where writing and Buddhist philosophy come together. It’s personal—I’m not out to give you a crash course in Buddhism, I’m just here to tell you what works for me. And it’s practical—my intention is to give you new ways to look at (and cope with) the roller-coaster ride that is being a writer, and not initiate you into some esoteric spiritual practice.

Why subscribe?

Free subscribers will receive an issue of Writing Zen in their inbox every month or so.

Paid subscribers will also receive episodes of the Writing Dharma podcast—5 minute talks on writing craft and living the writing life.

Paid subscribers will also be invited to a live, online Q&A session with me each month. (Recordings of these sessions will be sent after the fact, in case you have to miss one.)

For a limited time, paid subscribers will also receive a free month of membership ($40 value) in Creative Caffeine Daily, an online platform that provides writers with daily writing prompts and weekly writing partners

Why join the community?

What writer couldn’t use the support and encouragement of the only other people who understand this all-consuming, exhilarating, frustrating, and occasionally gratifying thing we do?

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A lot about writing, a bit about Zen

People

I'm the author of 2 award-winning novels, and a memoir. I'm also a long-time Zen practitioner, who has taught Writing & Mindfulness at Esalen & SF Zen Center.