Meet Susan DeBow
Whether you laugh out loud or dissolve into tears, Susan DeBow’s writing will draw you into her world. For the past several years, Sasee readers have enjoyed many of Susan’s essays on topics that range from the deadly serious to simply hilarious. Her poignant and personal style feels so much like talking to an old friend that Susan’s fans feel very connected to her. Not one to take herself too seriously, Susan describes her writing as “a cross between Erma Bombeck and Andy Rooney!” An Ohio native, Susan spoke to Sasee by phone just after returning from Ireland where she conducts an annual writing workshop.
Susan, you’ve published a poetry chapbook, a novel, short stories and have written columns for many major publications. What is your favorite genre?
Definitely the essay. It is very personal, and the one place I can speak from my heart, soul and mind. Writing a personal essay helps me understand my life and process the bad and the good. Chocolate does that too, but it’s only temporary. Or maybe it’s not—the chocolate seems to be permanent on my read end!
How was Ireland?
It was great! This is my sixth year doing writing workshops there. My workshops are all about the writing. I help you find your writer’s voice and develop the ability to say what you mean and mean what you say! I also give writers tips on how to get published. And, I do crazy things. This year I knitted all of the women in my workshop a shawl. I love to knit, and I wanted them to feel comfy and cozy. When their minds were relaxed, they were able to write in ways they’ve never written before.
Are your workshops only for experienced writers?
Oh no! I work with the beginning and advanced writer. The women in my workshops are usually in the midst of some change in their life that they aren’t sure how to handle, and together we use writing to better understand ourselves. I want the women who attend my workshop to know that they really do have something worthwhile to say. Life really is one big question mark, but we’re all in this together, and writing can sometimes give you the answers.
Susan will visit the Grand Strand this month and discuss her latest novel at a Moveable Feast on October 26 at Inlet Affairs Restaurant, and will conduct a weekend writing workshop at the Waccamaw Higher Education Center. The workshop will be held from 9am-4pm, Saturday and Sunday, October 27 and 28. Tuition is $195. To register, call 843-349-4030.
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