The Non-Solitary Act of Writing

Empty spaces at Quincy Market

By Jessica A. Kent

After the virus arrived, it didn’t take long for the bookstores to shut down.

First it was the gatherings — author readings, book clubs — but then it was only a few days until stores made more long-term decisions. Some kept staff on and continued to service online orders with shipping and curb-side pick-up, until that became too tenuous. Others who did in-store only sales simply closed, while others launched GoFundMe campaigns to stay alive.

Then the public libraries closed, cancelling their events and shutting their stacks. And with the increasing recommendations around social distancing, the bars closed, silencing open mic nights and poetry slams. Writing centers moved classes online. Conferences and literary events, gatherings that felt more like reunions with friends, were called off.

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