Lately I’ve been focused on unpacking, meeting the birds and trees in the nabe, writing my book, and doing my other job. I’ve been disinclined to take on much beyond that, but yesterday I sent my first Tiny Letter since January, and it felt good. I’m always glad when a description I give at the beginning of something fits what I end . . .
I’ve lived in Brooklyn since 1999, longer than I’ve lived anywhere else, even Miami. It’s been good in many ways but also difficult for me. City life tends to exacerbate my anxiety. I’ve missed living near wild green places. I’m sure I’d have a much harder time leaving New York than I realize, but I’d be happy to give it a try, if . . .
The publication party for The Queen of the Night, the magnificent second novel by my dear friend Alexander Chee, is tomorrow night at McNally Jackson. I was stunned and so happy when he asked me to discuss the book with him there. Alex and I became friends before I read his first book. An instant easy understanding was possible between us that might have . . .
I wrote about science and self and wanted and unwanted rodents: I, Rodent. This is probably the strangest essay I’ve published to date. I like it a lot.