Attention Inventory: Books as religion, fruit leather, reminders of humanity

5 things that are front of mind

Well, well, well. I wrote a whole post on January 5, and then I stood on the balcony, watching a beautifully glowing, crisp line of fire obliterate the the distant hillside and thought…I did not plan for this! We make plans, god laughs, etc.

above: actual footage of me in Los Angeles this month

The vibes in general, everywhere are horrifique! I too am avoiding looking at the news and spiraling into a state of existential dread while staring vacantly into the void, stirring my oatmeal.

And yet. I implore you to take a beat. Take a breath. And step forward into all of it with raw honesty, relentless grit, and…freaky possibility.

It’s the year of the snake, baby. It’s one for disruptive shock and terrifying transformation—that ultimately gives way to wisdom if you’re willing to walk into it with bravado. It’s time to release the grip, move with fluidity, and trust your gut (or relocate said gut if you’ve lost the route).

above: absolutely unhinged Google explanation of the Year of the Snake

Take care of yourself, own your complexity. The stakes have never been lower…or higher! Fun.

Without further ado, onto month's Attention Inventory (or what's currently occupying my mind):

1. Reading Rainbow
Literature is my religion, and I’ve been up to my neck inhaling truths from those far wiser than I. Here’s what’s on the shelf. (Also, some really delightful and pure book-related recommendations are happening over on the Moon Lists chat if you’re looking for an escape):

• So Late The Day by Claire Keegan

• Indeterminate Inflorescence: Notes from a poetry class by Lee Seong-bok

• Pathways to Bliss: Mythology and Personal Transformation by Joseph Campbell

• Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of the Dead by Olga Tokarczuk

• Vertigo by W.G. Sebald

[Also not to be gauche but being a paid subscriber is (absolutely at the moment) impactful; 100% of Moon Lists subscriptions are donated, currently toward those directly affected by LA wildfires. I’ve been focusing on folks to whom I can 1:1 offer aid, and will continue to be transparent with you.]