Hello and welcome!
I’m Dr Yasmin Chopin—a researcher, writer, and mentor (and my surname really is pronounced like the composer, Frédéric Chopin).
Celebrating the art and craft of Place Writing
This Substack publication celebrates the art and craft of Place Writing. I pose questions, try to provide answers, and always encourage conversation. I'm championing Place Writing as a genre in its own right. It's my thing. Is it yours?
See this comment from reader Jeanine Kitchel who writes Mexico Soul, which was posted on the Notes forum:
I love Yasmin Chopin and her Substack: Place Writing. It really resonates with me. (…) all so interesting but one [post] in particular stands out: Travel writing—Sharing the Wonder of Place. It probably speaks to me bc I consider(ed) myself a travel writer until I read her Jan 5, 2023, post. Now I am re-thinking if I write travel OR place. But I love the conundrum. The quote I enjoyed was this, “Many (travel) writers begin their careers in journalism and I would suggest that people who enter this profession have travel in their DNA.” Busted! That’s me. Itchy feet for sure. Thanks again to Yasmin for her thoughtful Substack.
So, here on my Substack, you’ll find posts on a range of place-related topics including nature, travel, art history, home, architecture, and design.
The Genre of Place Writing
Also, see my tab, Recommended Books. To my knowledge, no shelves exist in libraries or bookshops labelled ‘Place Writing’. In this series of book reviews I chose a title that, in my opinion, is a good example of the genre and, over time, these posts will develop into a specialised reading list for you.
Join us!
Subscribe to:-
Be informed about what’s happening in the field of Place Writing.
Develop an awareness of the methods used in Place Writing.
Be inspired to creatively engage with place in your own writing.
Get into conversation with hundreds of other subscribers who are passionate about the craft of writing.
Find exciting new reading material. We share and recommend the good stuff.
My Background
I live near Cambridge in the east of England and I recently gained a PhD in creative non-fiction Place Writing at Manchester Metropolitan University. Previously, I got my Masters Degree (with Distinction) in Creative Writing, a Diploma in Interior Design, and a BA (with Honours) in Art History. In my first career as an Association Executive managing third sector businesses I wrote a bit—editing magazines, compiling reports, and preparing promotional literature. Although there was little room for creativity, I gained confidence with words. Later, in my second career as a residential interior design consultant, I established an award-winning website blog and wrote monthly columns for a variety of journals including the online interiors portal Houzz. And, in between working and bringing up a family, I bought and sold property. I’m interested in all aspects of art, architecture, and design.
Initially, I approached Place Writing as an experienced home-maker and designer, but my fascination with the subject has broadened. And now, in my third and ultimate career as a writer, I consider ‘place’ from many perspectives.
Want to Browse?
Place Writing is curated by me. Every post is prepared with care and sent with love. You might like to start with my introductory post: What is Place Writing? And here are a few of my most popular posts: Travel Writing and A Creative Writing PhD.
NB My Bookshop.org site supports independent bookshops and if you buy books via this link I may earn a small commission.
Work with me!
For more details about my bespoke services for individuals and groups, see my tab Work with me!
Contact me by email: ycid at yasminchopin dot com.
