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Armchair BEA: Networking–Leonicka visits the EAC

Leonicka Valcius: Armchair BEA: Networking–Leonicka visits the EAC

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Armchair BEA: Networking–Leonicka visits the EAC



As I mentioned in an earlier post, networking is serious business. Like any community, publishing depends on the relationships you form, and the best way to strengthen and solidify those relationships is to go out and meet people. Yes, in real life.

At the end of May, I went to a meeting and panel discussion hosted by the Editors’ Association of Canada Toronto Branch. The business portion of the event was a fantastic opportunity for me to learn more about the EAC and the resources it provides for editors. Tammy Burns, the publicity chair and an in-house editor, led the Q&A period for new and prospective EAC members. I had lots of questions about freelancing and this session was very helpful in answering them.

The highlight, however, was the panel discussion led by Keith Oatley and Raymond Mar. They discussed the psychology of fiction, specifically how fiction can change a person, what happens to the brain when reading, and the distinct personality traits readers have. I was blown away. The hypothesis, that reading fiction makes people more empathetic and better able to relate with people and the world around them, is revolutionary yet completely in line with everything I know about books and reading. The audience was fully engaged in the discussion and by the end of the night Keith coined a new writing aphorism to replace “show don’t tell”: Evoke don’t describe. Brilliant.

I had so much fun at this event and was even able to bond with other guests over the pin I wore. Networking is honestly one of the best parts of my job.

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5 Comments:

Blogger Maidenveil said...

Oh wow. Psychology of Fiction! Being a psychology major I am on to this! :D Wish I could have join this, but nonetheless thanks for sharing the info. :)

Stopping by from Armchair BEA. :)

-Len of Musings of a Reader Happy

June 6, 2012 at 2:05 AM  
Blogger Amanda said...

That sounds so fascinating! I've always thought that reading makes it easier to understand people that are different, but hearing the science and all behind that is really intriguing.

June 6, 2012 at 8:45 AM  
Blogger TP said...

That is so amazing and I love the idea of wearing the pin or a bookish "statement piece."

Tanya
Girlxoxo.com

June 6, 2012 at 8:02 PM  
Blogger Heidenkind said...

Evoke don't describe is a great way to put it! Let the readers fill in the blanks with their own imaginations.

June 6, 2012 at 10:41 PM  
Blogger loreleimarsh said...

Seriously? Psychology of fiction? Who knew? It totally makes sense though. I'm one of those people who tends to take on the characteristics of the people I read. Very cool! Tattooed Books

June 6, 2012 at 11:40 PM  

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