Alisa Alering: Embracing the Essence of the Mountain Within

Alisa Alering’s conversation in I’m a Writer But brims with insightful reflections on their debut novel, Smothermoss, alongside musings on the interconnectedness of humanity and nature. Alering shares their formative experiences growing up on a farm in the Appalachian Mountains of Pennsylvania, illuminating how these landscapes have profoundly shaped their storytelling. The dialogue explores the significance of place and time, particularly setting the narrative in the 1980s, where both the physical and emotional landscapes intertwine. With a keen ear for the subtleties of communication beyond words, Alering articulates a writing process that is deeply attuned to listening—whether it be to the whispers of nature or the raw energies surrounding them. The theme of environmental awareness permeates their work, inviting readers to consider the perspectives of the natural world, as illustrated by the metaphor of being a mountain. This interplay of personal experience and broader natural phenomena forms a rich tapestry that enhances the depth of Smothermoss, making it a noteworthy exploration of connection, loss, and resilience. Alering, whose previous works have appeared in esteemed literary journals, brings a unique voice to contemporary literature, encouraging readers to reflect on their own relationships with the environment. For further exploration, the full article can be found at this link: https://lithub.com/alisa-alering-on-being-the-mountain/.

As a writer and literature teacher, I appreciate the thoughtful examination Alering offers of their creative process, which serves as both an inspiring guide and a reflective commentary on the broader implications of storytelling. The approach to storytelling as a relational act—one that requires tuning in to the subtleties of experience rather than imposing human-centric interpretations—is particularly compelling. This kind of inquiry into the natural world challenges readers to rethink their understanding of narrative and encourages a deeper appreciation for the subtleties of communication that exist beyond language. The insights Alering shares resonate with the philosophical underpinnings of literature, which often aim to bridge the gap between human experience and the world around us.

The team behind I’m a Writer But deserves commendation for curating such valuable conversations with authors. Their commitment to exploring the multi-faceted lives of writers allows for a richer understanding of the artistic journey, while simultaneously engaging readers in the broader dialogues surrounding creativity and literature. The platform’s ability to seamlessly blend aspects of personal narrative, craft discussions, and literary insights enhances the reader’s experience, creating a space that not only celebrates writers but also connects them to their audience through shared experiences and reflections.