lovely little inspiration: sarah elwell of knitting the wind on writing prose & her photography

Sarah Elwell of Knitting the Wind

Sarah Elwell of Knitting the Wind

I first stumbled upon Knitting the Wind this past March, shortly after the lovely Sarah Elwell left a comment on this post of mine. Within a mere moment of landing on Sarah’s homepage, I knew that her beautiful weblog would immediately become one of my absolute favorite reads. The writing Sarah shares on Knitting the Wind is oh-so enchanting and poetic. It is the very sort of prose I dreamt of composing when I was a young child; an eight year old girl with countless spiral-bound notebooks and an (over)active imagination. Though I doubt I myself will ever be capable of such delightful work, Sarah’s little online space has inspired me endlessly. When she agreed to participate in my ‘lovely little inspiration‘ series I was beyond thrilled.

Sarah, thank you so, so very much. As for everyone reading… I hope you enjoy this itty bitty interview.ย ♥


1) When and why did you begin blogging? Was there something or someone in particular that inspired you?

When I first encountered blogging, I actually thought it was a very strange thing for anyone to do. But I became increasingly inspired by the many women who were writing about their homeschooling experiences and encouraging each other. The community was strong and vibrant in those days, and many friendships were formed in the comments box.

2) Your prose is so beautiful, Sarah. How long have you been writing, and what are your favorite topics/genres?

Thank you for such kindness. I’ve been writing since childhood. My favourite genre to read is fantasy, and I mostly write it too, probably because I spent my adolescence concoting wretched tales of pegasus riders or crystal witches (too much Anne McCaffrey in my literary diet) and the habit stuck. My stories are about love and longing, magic, and dreaming girls.

By Sarah Elwell

By Sarah Elwell

3) Your pictures are lovely, as wellโ€ฆ can you tell us a little bit about them? How did you become interested in taking photographs, and is there a particular subject that you most love shooting?

Thank you again. I must tell you, most are not lovely, only the few I am willing to show! I’ve always liked taking snapshots, but over the past few years I’ve spent a lot of time outdoors, surrounded by beautiful scenery, and because of that I’ve expanded my interest. Having said that, I particularly like photographing people (although its also true that I have ruined at least one camera by taking too many shots of the sun).

4) What blogs or websites do you derive the most inspiration from?

I love reading the sites of people who see the world in interesting ways. I can’t offer any favourites, because I appreciate them all uniquely, but I can mention three women who use blogging beautifully as part of their work – Wild Simplicity, The Indigo Vat, and Posie Gets Cozy.

5) Do you have a favorite post or two on your blog? If so what is it/are they?

No real favourites, but I am fond of this one about being a different kind of writer.

By Sarah Elwell

By Sarah Elwell

By Sarah Elwell

By Sarah Elwell

6) Are there any books that you particularly love, or would recommend to those who havenโ€™t yet read them?

There’s a line in the movie Ever After when the heroine is asked to choose a book – “I could no sooner choose a favourite star in the heavens.” That’s how I feel, too. However, I’m always happy to recommend Patricia McKillip’s books to people. Such lyrically beautiful writing.

7) What advice would you give to someone just beginning their a) writing and b) photography journeys?

For writing : put in a careful apprenticeship. Read well, and learn from the best books what the best writers do to capture their readers’ hearts. I believe wonderful words and ideas are best supported by thoughtful technique. For photography, though, my advice would be the opposite. I’m certainly no expert on the subject, but I would recommend opening your soul and looking for the open soul of the world around you. Technical details can come after you’ve learned how to engage on a real level with wild beauty.


xoxo! Please be sure to visit Sarah’s delightful space.ย ♥

Abby

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20 comments on “lovely little inspiration: sarah elwell of knitting the wind on writing prose & her photography”

  1. Thank you so much Abby. <3 It has been a delight to "meet" you, I wish I'd had your confidence and vision when I was your age! I really appreciate your kind words here.

  2. Omg I just went to her website and read a few posts. They’re amazing!!!! I never in a million years could have come up with such beautiful posts by weaving words…
    This post is great too! ๐Ÿ˜€

  3. What gorgeous, ethereal photos! I love the soft lighting!

  4. this was such an interesting read, thank you! those photos are absolutely beautiful too, you can see the talent!
    natasha // eyebrows, inc.

  5. I remember fantasy used the genre I used to read most heavily, but for some reason I can’t imagine why, it has become the genre I’ve read the least. I really need to start reading some more of those! Anyways, I love the advice Sarah gave. I think the different approaches between writing and photographing is really interesting ๐Ÿ™‚ -Audrey | Brunch at Audrey’s

    • Thanks for the comment, Audrey! I haven’t read much fantasy lately, either, and really should get back to it soon. There are just SO many books to read, and never enough time, gah.
      And I agree, her advice is wonderful. Photography and writing are such different art forms, but they complement each other beautifully, I think, especially in the form of blogging. ๐Ÿ™‚ xx

  6. Thank you so much for this delightful interview with one of my favorite and most unique bloggers. Sarah is amazing. Her words and her photos, do so much for the soul. A joy she is.

    What a lovely blog you have here! And what delightful interests, for someone so young. I *envy* your mother and grandmother. And hope they appreciate you, as much as they should.

    Gentle hugs,
    Tessa

    • Thank you so much for commenting, Tessa! Sarah is such a lovely person & blogger, it was a delight to interview her.

      And thank you again for the kind words about my blog! They mean a lot; you’re so sweet. <3

      xx Abby

  7. I’ve been a long time fan of Sarah’s especially her writing which is always amazing and nostalgic. & her photography is a wonderful too. great interview.

  8. hello,

    so lovely of you to interview Sarah and share her with us anew.
    I also enjoy her blog on a regular basis. her writing draws me in, her photos soft with beauty.

  9. Love this post!! Check out my new blog! The URL is mymodishlife.com ๐Ÿ™‚

  10. Luckily, I have loved Sarah, for years….

    Hope you have shared her, with more readers…

    She should be shared with the world!!!!! And I’m sure, you agree.

    Gentle hugs,
    Tessa