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.