Balkan Literature: Where brilliant writers flourished despite the dissolution of a nation

To set the stage, the term “Balkan” references the geographical area that stretches from Slovenia to Greece in southeast Europe. It was formerly known as Yugoslavia, the country which was composed of present day Serbia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Slovenia, North Macedonia, and Kosovo (still disputed). The passing of Josip Broz Tito, the former … More Balkan Literature: Where brilliant writers flourished despite the dissolution of a nation

Recommendations for Translated Literature: A window into another world

Zdrasti to my fellow bloggers and blog-lovers. Today I’m writing to you from Sofia, Bulgaria, where I’ve been taking this week to do my own DIY writer’s workshop. The beautiful mountains have been a peaceful backdrop to inspire my days of creative writing. You might’ve read my most post last week titled, Translated Literature: A … More Recommendations for Translated Literature: A window into another world

Translated Literature: A plea to bolster your reading palate

Hello my fellow bloggers and blog-lovers. Today I am writing this entry from a sleepy town in Montenegro, Bijela, to be specific. Not much happens in this provincial, coastal town, which means I’ve been doing more reading than touristing here. Particularly, enter today’s topic, translated literature. Over the past year, I’ve developed quite an affinity … More Translated Literature: A plea to bolster your reading palate

Egyptian Literature: Ancient dreams influence modern writers

Papyrus scrolls. Elaborate tombs. Unparalleled prosperity. Ancient Egyptians spent much of their time day dreaming about the after life. This, no doubt, influenced their literature; writing is a reflection of the times. The restless streets of Cairo have a beguiling charm. The vast history of the country unravels itself to newcomers through their unique hieroglyphics, … More Egyptian Literature: Ancient dreams influence modern writers

Turkish Literature: Where diverse culture meets unique literature

Disclaimer: Previously known by the Anglicized spelling of Turkey, President Erdoğan has asked the international community to recognize the nation by its Turkish spelling, Türkiye, on June 28th, 2022. Türkiye is a country distinguished by it’s blend of European and Asian culture. Although after speaking with some locals, they consider themselves not to be European, … More Turkish Literature: Where diverse culture meets unique literature

Books for Writers: 6 books every writer should read this summer

Great writers are great readers. The more you read, the more you allow yourself to dive into a free-flowing headspace to unlock your inner creative genius. If you’re looking for encouraging books for writers, here’s a handpicked list I’ve crafted that has helped me keep the apathetic idling—what some call writer’s block—at bay. That’s if … More Books for Writers: 6 books every writer should read this summer

Conscientiousness: The Ruthless Pursuit of Order

The Benefits of Conscientiousness Conscientiousness can be broken down into the following two aspects: Industriousness and Orderliness.  Those who score high in Industriousness are driven, focused and determined. They finish what they start. I’m sure you’ve all heard of the buzzword known as Grit? Well, it’s the same thing. Those high is Orderliness want everything … More Conscientiousness: The Ruthless Pursuit of Order

June 24th, 2022

I confess to not ever being comfortable with having pride in the country you were born in. Conceptually, I think it’s a flawed idea from the get go. A recipe for provincialism and a potent catalyst for intolerance and violence. Having said that, I admit there have been moments I’ve allowed myself to warm my … More June 24th, 2022

Neuroticism: The Cost of Consciousness

The Cost of Consciousness Neuroticism is the trait associated with negative emotions. It can be broken down into the following two aspects: Volatility and Withdrawal.  Those high in withdrawal may be described as anxious, self-conscious, depressive and easily overwhelmed. Whereas those high in volatility may be described as touchy, irritable and unstable. In contrast, those … More Neuroticism: The Cost of Consciousness

Extraversion: The Price of Now

What Is Extraversion? Extraversion breaks down into the following two fundamental aspects: assertiveness and enthusiasm.  Those high in assertiveness are the take-charge types. The so-called natural-born leaders. The game-changing alphas. (It’s a valuable trait for a pilot, I might add.) Those high in enthusiasm are talkative and charismatic. They’re the life of the party. The ones who … More Extraversion: The Price of Now