Today I’m writing over at Sarah Emsley’s blog about Emma Woodhouse and the blinding power of pride. Join today’s discussion — and future posts — as Sarah and her readers celebrate Jane Austen’s 200th celebration of the publication of Emma (see Emma on sidebar).
Starting in December, I’ll be joining fellow Janeites as we celebrate the 200th anniversary of Jane Austen’s Emma.
To join the discussion, visit Sarah Emsley’s blog. The fun starts on December 23rd and runs through May 19th.
One cannot have too large a party. – Jane Austen
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Today John Peter of Red Pickle Dish hypothesizes on Edith Wharton’s reaction to the current situation in Paris.
“It is not in the mud and jokes and everyday activities of the trenches that one most feels the damnable insanity of war; it is where it lurks like a mythical monster in scenes to which the mind has always turned for rest.”
–Edith Wharton, Fighting France
Edith Wharton was familiar with the environs of international conflict associated with the First World War. Her work in the French relief effort is much of what defines her post-authorial life.
With the unfolding events in Paris, I couldn’t help but wonder how Wharton would have reacted to her beloved expatriate city under siege. I happened upon this piece from TheNew Republic that reveals her responses to the ravages of war, war violence, and the sociological effects of its reality:
Edith Wharton’s War: Was Edith Wharton Hopelessly Enamored With Battle?
The writer points out that “[w]hen Wharton takes advantage not of her…
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Last week, I was fortunate enough to attend a luncheon with fellow contributors and the staff of Chicken Soup for the Soul.
What I like most about the stories I read in these books is that they usually end in an epiphany…and I like epiphanies.
I know I’m always thankful when others encourage me. There are days in which I feel God himself has sent certain messengers into my life. Thank you messengers!
The Chicken Soup for the Soul event included a fabulous lunch at Coast (in Cos Cob, CT), a delightful presentation by Editor-in-Chief, Amy Newmark, and a tour of their headquarters.
I was inspired throughout the day and was honored to share a table with fellow writers, Priscilla Whitley and Elisa Yager.
What impressed me the most was Chicken Soup for the Soul’s positive vision for the future. Their anti-bullying program is so needed in today’s environment (there’s a lot of peer pressure out there)!
Being kind, accepting diversity, and encouraging others is what #CSS is all about and I’m so happy to be a very small part of that community.
From L-R: Kristi Pastir, CSS; Priscilla, Elisa, Amy Newmark, CSS; me; and Beth (fellow contributor)
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Mary C. M. Phillips – About
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Music of the Forest
Mary C. M. Phillips
Be inspired with an encouraging word and see all the good work being done by Chicken Soup for the Soul. 
Chapbook available in person (“old school”) at book events. 
Devotional for musicians
Coming December 2026-
Some links I like:
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Jane Austen - Backstories (book blog)
Mary C. M. Phillips 