Sitting in Silence

Whew. I just closed out my busiest month of the year. I wrote. I conducted panels and gave talks. That all took a lot of energy. But did you know it’s possible to recharge your battery? How? The secret is other writers. It turns out that being around others who love the written word as much of you can be quite life-affirming. I may feel worn out from a … This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

Hi y’all,This is a brief BREAKING NEWS podcast episode about a very cool thing that happened today. I’ll be back with a regular newsletter but for now: thanks! Here’s a list of fiction winners. Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

I’ve finally done it. I ran my mouth for well over an hour. But it’s all for a good cause. In an era in which Hollywood is shrinking, streaming services dominate—can you believe people watch films on their cell phones?—and the theatrical experience is going the way of VHS rental stores, it’s a nice to thing to remember why we love going to the movies. I’m a life long film lover. That why you can trust me to deliver this year’s Annual Oscars Preview Episode wherein I list my Best Picture nominees from least favorite to most favorite. And discuss some of the other categories as well like Best Actor and Best Actress. I also explain who will win and why.The Oscars ceremony will be televised this Sunday, March 15, 2026 at 7pm EST. Who do you think will win and why? Tell me or just say hello in the comments. Also consider becoming a patron subscriber to keep this show on the road!Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

Every year they say book publishing is dead. Every year they’re wrong. When will they stop saying that? Listen to today’s podcast on what’s really happening in publishing. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

I still dream that one day AWP will wake up and come to New Orleans (it feels like a no-brainer, right?). But until then, I’ll leave my writing nest like the rest of you and have an adventure. In today’s episode, I’ll talk about how special this conference is as well as how vital our connection to our overall literary community is.If you’re reading this, say hi below. And smash that like button on your podcast app. It does wonders for people finding Sitting in Silence. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

Hi, this is repost of yesterday’s episode, which had a technical problem.Enjoy this year’s final patron podcast on the importance of committing oneself to making good art. Happy holidays! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

Hello, Dear Listeners! Isn’t it crazy that January is mostly over? It’s been said that you don’t have to get ready if you stay ready. Are you doing what you can to foster your writing life? Could you do more? What steps have you taken make a path for yourself?Thanks to all the new patrons and Sitting in Silence Club members who have joined over the past month. You make this space possible. Not a supporter? Consider a month-pass for $5, which will give you full access to four full years(!) of writing, inspirational, and life planning related archives. It’s a steal of a deal.Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Ready to comment? Do it below! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

Happy New Year, friends! In today’s podcast, let’s level-set on dedication. What are you making this year? What are you willing to do to make that dream come to fruition?Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Thanks for reading Sitting in Silence ! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

Nothing like a 202-year old poem to get you into that holiday spirit, right? Grab your hot chocolate, marshmallows, and cozy up with the family around the fireplace while I recite this classic for you. Merry Christmas to all who observe! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

Hi and welcome to Sitting in Silence, the podcast for thoughtful and curious thinkers. Thanks to patron, Rachel Sams, for today’s topic! Writing a book is an extremely difficult task. But you don’t have to go it alone. Beta readers are one important way to make sure your work is strong before you submit to agents and editors. Still, are they worth troub… This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

Here at the end of 2025, I thought it would be a good time to level set. Hope you’re well. Happy holidays to you and yours!Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

In today’s lesson, I crack open three of my all-time favorite books and show you how author’s display their narrator’s frustration to effectively set up and develop story. Thanks for subscribing at the Patron level!Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

A huge thank you to listeners and readers of Sitting in Silence. Happy Thanksgiving and Happy Holidays. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

This is a podcast episode about how to deal with the challenges of the late fall and winter season when the days get dark and cold. All the best too you. If you like Sitting in Silence, consider becoming a patron today. Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

Hi all, I hope you enjoy tonight’s episode. Not much to say other than, please consider becoming a patron. Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.comHi all and welcome to my annual quick hitter series for patrons. If you’re a patron, thank you for the support. If not, consider becoming a paid subscriber to my podcasts and newsletters that are chock full of valuable information for writers and creators.Enjoy.

Hi all, this year’s craft series kicked off with the live craft session and continues here with a free podcast on desire. More posts will follow in the newsletter and the podcast. Love what I’m doing with Sitting in Silence? Consider becoming a patron. It really helps me continue this important work. Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Or don’t. The vast majority of posts are free and will remain so. All I ask then is that you share with people you think might appreciate it. Either way, say hi below. It’s always nice to hear from you. And, have any thoughts on today’s topic? Let me know. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

Thank you Sayu Bhojwani, Claudia Barker, Jackie Kerr, Khadijah Abdul Haqq, TowandaL, and many others for tuning into my live video with Elisa M. Speranza (she/her)! Join me for my next live video in the app.If you enjoy Sitting in Silence, consider sustaining it by becoming a patron!Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

Thanks to everyone for the birthday wishes. I turned XXX years old on September 20 and had a truly darling time. In today’s episode, I catch you up on my adventures in America’s publishing capital, New York City, talk about some upcoming excitement in the world of Sitting in Silence, and share thoughts on writing in this very odd political moment. Give a gift to yourself and listen.Also, thanks to patrons. You keep this space open and available to all. I’m giving a special talk about writing motivation on Monday, October 6. Check it out here. And be on the lookout for super rare live Q&A. If you’re on the Substack app. It’ll pop up. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

Hi all. Maurice here. I've done many written interviews for Sitting in Silence. But join me for my first live interview.Genevieve Rheams is a brilliant writer and the woman behind the newly released novel, We Will Plant Birds of Paradise. I got to chat with her about becoming an author, overcoming projects that didn't get published, and writing books that speak to the authentic self.Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Thanks for reading Sitting in Silence ! This post is public so feel free to share it.Thank you to everyone who tuned into my live video! Join me for my next live video in the app. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.comThank you to the awesome sponsors of today’s episode: you!

Thanks for listening to today’s show, where I talk about the gumption all successful authors have. The universe can feel like it’s pushing against you, but it’s actually inviting you on a journey of discovery. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.comThis is a special episode for patrons of Sitting in Silence. My annual fall craft series is coming up. What writing or life topics would you like me to cover? What do you want to know? What confuses you? What myths should be dispelled?Drop it in the comments or shoot me a message. 2024’s suggestions made for a truly special series. We can do even better this year!Here is last year’s most shared patron craft episode.Brand new patron writing prompt below the break:

Hello and welcome to the second video episode of Sitting in Silence, the podcast about writing, craft, inspiration, and joy. In today’s post, I talk about finding our way as writers as well as reflecting on the 20th Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. As a bonus, here is one of my favorite pieces about home. I like it because I wrote it, but you can judge for yourself. You can purchase my books here. Please consider becoming a paid subscriber to SIS. Paid subscribers sustain this space for everyone. Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

Sliding Doors: sometimes it feels like we’re living in the wrong timeline, doesn’t it? But I challenge that thinking here in today’s episode of Maurice Carlos Ruffin’s Sitting in Silence. Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

In today’s podcast, I ask a few questions about your writing life that you might want to answer; discuss upcoming events; and engage in a light-hearted discussion about the nature of existence. Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

Hello and welcome to the first video episode of Sitting in Silence, the video show about writing, craft, inspiration, and joy. In this ground floor space, I offer a brief introduction for newcomers, a craft talk on truth telling in writing, and a light sampling of my discussion on how to stay motivated in your creative endeavors.You can find my books here.Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Thoughts on today’s episode: Did you like it? Should I do more of these? Is there something you’d like to see me talk about? This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.comThank you to listener Peggy Neil for the topic suggestion. As a benefit, Sitting in Silence fans like Peggy are able to ask questions that I answer as soon as I can get to them. If you’d like to become a patron, you can subscribe below.Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.comThanks to friend and listener, Elisa Speranza, for suggesting today’s topic. This is a part of this year’s summer series where I answer questions from patrons.

Enjoy today’s podcast. I talk about rebooting yourself in times when your tide feels low. Good luck in your writing journey. Also, check out my new paid subscriber series where I devote posts and episodes to directly answering reader questions. Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Please like, rate, and review this episode. And read the flagship newsletter on the app.Also, I’m teaching a novel writing class on July 23 and July 30. Sign up!Comments welcome below. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome to Sitting in Silence, the podcast about writing, craft, worry & joy. In today’s important meditation, we’ll chat about the material you’re ignoring. Many writers go looking for exotic ideas when the best is right under their nose. I’ll be teaching a two-session online class on July 23 & 30 at 6 pm EST called Starting and Finishing Novels. Lastly, my latest book is on sale now. The American Daughters is a national bestseller! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.comHi folks, today I talk about plotting and characterization technique I find very helpful when writing my books. I hope it helps you as well. Huzzah!Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Also, I’m teaching a novel writing class later this month. Check h…

I really enjoyed chatting with the great Sari Botton of Oldster about the pros and cons of getting older. She's a great interviewer, and she always challenges us to think deeper about our time on this planet.Join us for a serious and fun conversation. Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.And as always thanks to our subscribers. Share this post with your friends. Thank you to everyone who tuned into my live video! Join me for my next live video in the app. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

We make a big mistake when we leave our writing development in the hands of others. It’s time to accept that we have to put in tremendous effort to learn and evolve as writers. This works out well for the writer because when you bet on yourself you always win.Thanks to all the new patrons who support Sitting in Silence for themselves and others. You’re how we’re able to keep doing this. Specifically, I’d like to thank:* Gloriknits* Kelsey Ann* Kelly* Rana* The Bibiliophileblonde* Peggy* Chandler* Lois* Lauren * Steve* Susan* Anita* Lilliana Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Referrals can claim free patron subscriptions. Apple listeners please rate, like, and review. That’s how people find the pod. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.comWelcome to Maurice Carlos Ruffin’s Sitting in Silence, the podcast about writing, craft, worry & joy. Thanks to everyone for making this space one of the most popular on Substack. And thanks to the new patrons. We have years of material in the archives for you to peruse.Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and supp…

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.comWelcome to Maurice Carlos Ruffin’s Sitting in Silence, the podcast about writing, craft, worry & joy. Thanks to everyone for making this space one of the most popular on Substack. And thanks to the new patrons. We have years of material in the archives for you to peruse.Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and supp…

Back down? I have no idea how to do that.In today’s episode, how to battle imposter syndrome, Hans Christian Anderson, and much more. I’m teaching an online class called “Five Things I’ve Learned Too Late about Publishing My First Book.” May 18, 2025 at 8 pm EST.I’m also teaching an online class June 9 at 7 pm EST called Developing an Effective Book Pitch. It’s one session designed to give you what you need in a fleet two hour package. I know how busy you are.And I’ll be speaking on a panel at the Deep South Convening called “Building Literary Community Without Leaving Home.” Live at 11:30 am CST, Saturday, May 24. If you’re near Alabama, say hi.Get my latest paperback, The American Daughters, here.Share and comment below. Please rate, like and review this episode. Thanks!Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.comWelcome to Maurice Carlos Ruffin’s Sitting in Silence, the podcast about writing, craft, worry & joy. Thanks to everyone for making this space one of the most popular on Substack. And thanks to all the new patrons. We have years of material in the archives for you to peruse. Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and…

Welcome to Sitting in Silence, the podcast about writing, craft, worry & joy. It can be hard to take stock of your life. Sometimes when we look in the mirror, we don’t necessarily like what we see. But it’s human to have doubts about our life paths. I’m here to tell you that it’s alright. It’s always alright.Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Thanks to all the new listeners. Last month, Sitting in Silence had its highest listenership yet! Say hi in the comments if you liked today’s post. News and Notes:Get ready for my dear friend Jami Attenberg’s 1000 Words of Summer. I’m teaching an online class called “Five Things I’ve Learned Too Late about Publishing My First Book.” May 18, 2025 at 8 pm EST.I’m also teaching an online class June 9 at 7 pm EST called Developing an Effective Book Pitch. It’s one session designed to give you what you need in a fleet two hour package. I know how busy you are.In the meantime, find me in-person at the Annapolis Book Festival. I’m doing two panels Saturday, May 3, 2025.And I’ll be speaking on a panel at the Deep South Convening called “Building Literary Community Without Leaving Home.” Live at 11:30 am CST, Saturday, May 24. If you’re near Alabama, say hi.Get my latest paperback, The American Daughters, here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.comWelcome to Maurice Carlos Ruffin’s Sitting in Silence, the podcast about writing, craft, worry & joy. Thanks to everyone for making this space one of the most popular on Substack. And thank you to patrons for your support. You keep this ship sailing. Today is the third in this year’s run of my popular writing craft series. Last summer, I began the Quick…

Welcome to Sitting in Silence, the podcast about writing, craft, worry & joy.I saw the movie Sinners last week and enjoyed it greatly. I’ve also been following the controversy around that film as well as around a certain football player who was drafted far lower than projected. WAIT! Before you scroll away because you’re not a film or football person, I promise this all ties into our work as writers. By the way, that cover image is from the Turkish addition of my first book, We Cast a Shadow. Isn’t she a beauty?Enjoy and please leave a comment below. I’m teaching an online class called “Five Things I’ve Learned Too Late about Publishing My First Book.” May 18, 2025 at 8 pm EST.I’m also teaching an online class June 9 at 7 pm EST called Developing an Effective Book Pitch. It’s one session designed to give you what you need in a fleet two hour package. I know how busy you are.In the meantime, find me in-person at the Annapolis Book Festival. I’m doing two panels Saturday, May 3, 2025.And I’ll be speaking on a panel at the Deep South Convening called “Building Literary Community Without Leaving Home.” Live at 11:30 am CST, Saturday, May 24. If you’re near Alabama, say hi.Get my latest paperback, The American Daughters, here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

Today’s title says it all. Welcome to Sitting in Silence, the podcast about writing, craft, worry & joy. Today, let’s worry together. Coming up on future episodes of Maurice Carlos Ruffin’s Sitting in Silence: an interview with award-nominated fiction writer Marguerite Sheffer (author of The Man in the Banana Trees), an audio craft lesson, and more. The ongoing Quick Hitter Sitting in Silence audio craft lecture series is now live. Patrons can find the latest episodes under the title, Elements of Craft. The first episode is POV. The second is Character. Find them in the feed. More to come.I’m teaching an online class called “Five Things I’ve Learned Too Late about Publishing My First Book.” May 18, 2025 at 8 pm EST.I’m also teaching an online class June 9 at 7 pm EST called Developing an Effective Book Pitch. It’s one session designed to give you what you need in a fleet two hour package. I know how busy you are.In the meantime, find me in-person at the Annapolis Book Festival. I’m doing two panels Saturday, May 3, 2025.And I’ll be speaking on a panel at the Deep South Convening called “Building Literary Community Without Leaving Home.” Live at 11:30 am CST, Saturday, May 24. If you’re near Alabama, say hi.Get my latest paperback, The American Daughters, here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.comWelcome to Maurice Carlos Ruffin’s Sitting in Silence, the podcast about writing, craft, worry & joy. Thanks to everyone for making this space one of the most popular on Substack. Last week, we reached #64 Rising in Literature!Today is the second in this year’s run of my popular writing craft series. Last summer, I began the Quick Hitter Series project,…

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.comWelcome to Sitting in Silence, the podcast about writing, craft, worry & joy. Today begins the first in this year’s run of my popular writing craft series. Last summer, I began the Quick Hitter Series project, which many listeners found helpful in their own writing practice. That season focused on the biggest mistakes writers make in trying to publish their work. Patrons can hear those episodes in the archive. This year’s series is a bit more practical. I’ll cover the Elements of Craft. Everything from Point of View and Character to Subject and Theme. So join me if you want to learn new things or just need a friendly reminder. Below, I list the POVs discussed in today’s episode.I’ll be teaching an online class June 9 at 7 pm EST called Developing an Effective Book Pitch. It’s one session designed to give you what you need in a fleet two hour package. I know how busy you are. Find me in-person at the Annapolis Book Festival. I’m doing two panels Saturday, May 3, 2025.I’m also teaching an online class called “Five Things I’ve Learned Too Late about Publishing My First Book.” May 18, 2025 at 8 pm EST.I’ll be speaking on a panel at the Deep South Convening called “Building Literary Community Without Leaving Home.” Live at 11:30 am CST, Saturday, May 24. If you’re near Alabama, say hi. And be on the lookout for more of this year’s quick-hitter patron special series! I’ll be sharing knowledge on the Elements of Craft. You ever wanted to learn about everything from POV to theme? Join me. For Premium Subscribers. Lastly, my latest book is on sale now. The American Daughters is a national bestseller!

Welcome to Sitting in Silence, the podcast about writing, craft, worry & joy. In today’s important meditation, I talk about why so many brilliant creative people just stop. It’s a real tragedy, but it doesn’t have to go that way. Let’s chat about it. I’ll be teaching an online class June 9 at 7 pm EST called Developing an Effective Book Pitch. It’s one session designed to give you what you need in a fleet two hour package. I know how busy you are. Find me in-person at the Annapolis Book Festival. I’m doing two panels Saturday, May 3, 2025.I’m also teaching an online class called “Five Things I’ve Learned Too Late about Publishing My First Book.” May 18, 2025 at 8 pm EST.I’ll be speaking on a panel at the Deep South Convening called “Building Literary Community Without Leaving Home.” Live at 11:30 am CST, Saturday, May 24. If you’re near Alabama, say hi. And be on the lookout for this year’s quick-hitter patron special series! I’ll be sharing knowledge on the Elements of Craft. You ever wanted to learn about everything from POV to theme? Join me. For Premium Subscribers. Lastly, my latest book is on sale now. The American Daughters is a national bestseller! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

Hi writers! Enjoy today’s episode and take comfort in the fact that you’ll never walk alone. A little inspiration for your week. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

The AWP ‘25 Conference in Los Angeles was a real blast. I saw so many amazing writers and unbelievable sights. Today, I talk about what I learned this time around. And what it takes to keep writing in uncertain times. (P.S. I’m going to continue to suggest that AWP be held in New Orleans sooner rather later.) If you’re on Apple Music or similar, please rate, like, and review this episode. It really helps!Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

I’m happy to say I’ll be at AWP in Los Angeles this week. Yes, it’s expensive and takes you away from your writing nest. (Why isn’t AWP ever in New Orleans, huh?) But a literary conference is a great way to recharge your literary battery. In today’s episode, I’ll talk about the value of the many lit conferences, but also how they tie into the losses we all experience. Thanks to everyone who preordered and bought copies of The American Daughters paperback. You brought the book everywhere. See you in L.A. Unless I see you first. LOL This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

There are only two ways for an author to sustain herself in times of turbulence. Welcome to The Sitting in Silence Podcast by Maurice Carlos Ruffin. Let’s take a journey together. The paperback of The American Daughters is now out in stores everywhere. Thank you to everyone who ordered advance copies. If you’re in New Orleans, come to my book release at Community Book Center at 6pm Tuesday, March 11, 2025. Join the conversation by leaving a comment below. Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe

As a life long cinephile, this is a fun time of year for me. I’ve watched all the Oscar Best Picture nominees and kept track of the behind the scenes intrigue. Will the controversial Emilia Perez win any of its 13 nominations? Will Ariana Grande take home a statue? Is all of this kind of silly? Perhaps, but it’s fun too. So join me, won’t you?The Oscars are this Sunday, March 2. Are you rooting for any movies or actresses? Let me know in the comments. I’d love to hear from you!Sitting in Silence is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mauricecarlosruffin.substack.com/subscribe