This is one of the best essays iI have read in a long time. What a great way to start my morning. I kept thinking through all of it "I wish I had said that," and "yes, my thoughts exactly," even though I am almost eighty. I will be thinking about this all day! And Ill read it again tonight just to make me feel better.
As someone with Long COVID, I too have grappled with being biologically older than I am, and for me it has impacted how old I feel. I’m currently 28, but for the past two years have felt like I’m already in my 30s. I worry sometimes about what it’ll mean for my health long term, and my lifespan, but I know it has pushed me to make changes (especially related to stress levels) that will help me live a healthier life. It is hard though to sometimes feel so out of step with my peers and what they’re able to do.
"I like feeling more comfortable in my own skin, and getting to know myself from a place devoid of the shame and expectation that our culture foists upon women artists. My writing is not for everyone; it tends to be quieter, and that’s fine. It’s as if the glove finally fits." LOVE!!!!
Reading both Oldster and Poor Man’s Feast, I treasure being able to learn more about Elissa Altman. Her writing, especially about learning who we are, has been very affecting to me.
So delighted to see Elissa featured! Her writing is magic. I feel better, less alone, invigorated, inspired, challenged, and hopeful after reading her words here and in her newsletter. Thank you for this, Sari and Elissa!
I absolutely love this, Elissa. Your writing is always so expressive, but more - in several places I found myself traveling down the memory lane of my own introspection.
A word of warning: there’s another stock-taking milestone at 80! It caught me unaware.
I really enjoyed reading this and congratulate you on your sobriety. Thank you for sharing your own experience with aging. What a gift it is to us, your readers. 🙏
Elissa, I adore the way you jump off the page every time I read your words. Your voice is clear like a bell. This was pure delight.
This is one of the best essays iI have read in a long time. What a great way to start my morning. I kept thinking through all of it "I wish I had said that," and "yes, my thoughts exactly," even though I am almost eighty. I will be thinking about this all day! And Ill read it again tonight just to make me feel better.
As someone with Long COVID, I too have grappled with being biologically older than I am, and for me it has impacted how old I feel. I’m currently 28, but for the past two years have felt like I’m already in my 30s. I worry sometimes about what it’ll mean for my health long term, and my lifespan, but I know it has pushed me to make changes (especially related to stress levels) that will help me live a healthier life. It is hard though to sometimes feel so out of step with my peers and what they’re able to do.
Sorry to hear you've been struck with long Covid, Kelly. Hope you recover before long. <3
"I like feeling more comfortable in my own skin, and getting to know myself from a place devoid of the shame and expectation that our culture foists upon women artists. My writing is not for everyone; it tends to be quieter, and that’s fine. It’s as if the glove finally fits." LOVE!!!!
Me, too!
I now have to run out and read everything you’ve ever written. Your voice is mine if only I had your skill and self knowledge.
Reading both Oldster and Poor Man’s Feast, I treasure being able to learn more about Elissa Altman. Her writing, especially about learning who we are, has been very affecting to me.
So delighted to see Elissa featured! Her writing is magic. I feel better, less alone, invigorated, inspired, challenged, and hopeful after reading her words here and in her newsletter. Thank you for this, Sari and Elissa!
She's incredible. <3
thank you <3
deeply grateful to you. Thank you.
What a beautiful and thoughtful response to aging. Thank you for this.
I absolutely love this, Elissa. Your writing is always so expressive, but more - in several places I found myself traveling down the memory lane of my own introspection.
A word of warning: there’s another stock-taking milestone at 80! It caught me unaware.
"I’m a good wife and a good friend—at least I hope I am—and that feels like enough". It moved me to tears.
Thank you Elissa for sharing your perspectives. It is a lovely read!
This is a really lovely interview that doubles as an inspirational essay. I am struck by your honesty...thank you.
This is great, Elissa! Much move and support for your sitch, and thanks for speaking up for queer romance and Jewishness. My Bubbe would love you :)
I really enjoyed reading this and congratulate you on your sobriety. Thank you for sharing your own experience with aging. What a gift it is to us, your readers. 🙏
I loved this for a million reasons. Thanks, Elissa, and thanks, Sari.
<3
Wonderful reading. Thanks for sharing.
So enjoyed reading this this morning. Thank you Elissa and Oldster!
<3