A note from your FRESH YARN host and editor, HILLARY CARLIP...

As a writer and performer now deeply immersed in the art of the personal narrative essay, it has become apparent to me that there is a vital sub-culture of amazing talent engaged in this emerging genre. Writers in varied fields -- television, film, journalism, fiction -- as well as directors, producers, artists, performers and personalities, are all being drawn to telling their true stories through personal essays.

I've been amazed at the pieces I've heard read at live spoken-word venues where I have performed. Places in Los Angeles like the Un-Cabaret's "Say the Word," and Jill Soloway's "Sit 'n Spin" at Comedy Central's theatre space, exist across the country and have become successful hot-spots.

While there are also excellent literary outlets in print and online, I found that personal essays are not the focus. Typically they're buried amongst fiction, poetry, reviews and articles. There was no home, print publication or website, dedicated to this important genre.

Until now…

From the moment word about FRESH YARN got out, we've been overwhelmed by the enthusiastic response from leading talent from across the literary/theatrical spectrum. As FRESH YARN'S birth-mother, host and editor, it is my pleasure to curate an interesting, diverse collection of work written by a variety of very cool contributors.

Every month, FRESH YARN presents six new pieces in a straight-forward format that, above all, honors the authentic words and stories we feature.

My mission is to elevate the art form of the personal essay, and to promote the voices currently kicking it into higher gear. It is also to continue to build the community of listeners and readers who are the real reason this genre is coming to the fore.

So, read on and write on! XOX Hillary Carlip