{image1}Anne Lamott is often tagged with many labels, including "writer," "columnist," "recovering alcoholic," "single mother" and "Christian," but she definitely has her own take on each one.
"My politics tend to be those of a progressive with certain radical leanings. I come to my Christianity from that point of view," says Lamott, 49, the author of six novels, scores of essays and numerous works of non-fiction including "Operating Instructions," her account of life as a single mother during her son's first year.
But whether she's writing about faith, motherhood, dreadlocks or the craft of writing itself, Lamott spins her words with humor, honesty and inspiration. She will read in support of her latest collection of essays, "Plan B: More Thoughts on Faith," at the Downtown Public Library on Tuesday, March 22 at 7 p.m. The event is free.
Recently, OMC got in line behind NPR and interviewed the best-selling author.
OMC: Five years ago, you wrote "Traveling Mercies: Some Thoughts on Faith." Why more thoughts on faith with your latest book?
Anne Lamott: The times are a lot darker now. "Traveling Mercies" was written during the Clinton administration, and before 9/11 changed the world ... I wanted to offer something with humor and honesty instead of fear.
OMC: You write almost exclusively about your life and the lives of those around you, especially the ones you love. Why?
AL: That's the kind of writer I am. It's all I know. This is what I like to read, books that are funny, sad and real in their description of human life.
OMC: Your son, Sam, is 15. How does he feel about having his life exposed in your work?
AL: He doesn't mind at all. I always clear it with him before I write about him. He recently told an interviewer that he has really only thought about it two or three times in his life.
OMC: I remember reading about your lifelong dissatisfaction with your hair and how it was a source of low self-esteem for years before a neighbor twisted your hair into dreads. How long have you had dreadlocks, and is it still great for you and your self-image?
AL: I've had dreadlocks for about 11 years. For me, it's been the greatest freedom, and it's the most beautiful I have ever felt.
OMC: Describe your "brand" of Christianity.
AL: My Christ is like Martin Luther King: very deeply based in civil rights, social justice, taking care of the poor, protesting racism and love.
OMC: Aside from your writing, what do you give of yourself?
AL: I do a lot of benefits for the poor and LGBT churches. I volunteer when I can.
OMC: Is writing a spiritual experience for you?
AL: I don't really like writing that much. I love having it done, and I love that it helps me pay attention. I love having memories on paper. (My writing is) kind of like my photo album of life.
OMC: What makes a good parent?
AL: Boundaries, boundaries, boundaries. Saying "no" as often as possible. Every time I say no to my son I consider it a great gift. Also, being a parent who doesn't lead an overwhelmed life. It's important that kids see adults who have rich, rich lives with great presence and not neurotic people (who run from work to home, etc.) I try to make life fun and sweet for my son.
OMC: What makes a good Christian?
AL: Putting yourself last, but taking care of yourself, too. I deeply believe in tender and maternal self-care. Personally, I like naps and chocolate.
Anne Lamott will read in Centennial Hall, inside the Downtown Public Library. Doors open at 6 p.m. and seating is limited. For more information, call (414) 286-3572. The event is free.
Molly Snyder started writing and publishing her work at the age 10, when her community newspaper printed her poem, "The Unicorn.” Since then, she's expanded beyond the subject of mythical creatures and written in many different mediums but, nearest and dearest to her heart, thousands of articles for OnMilwaukee.
Molly is a regular contributor to FOX6 News and numerous radio stations as well as the co-host of "Dandelions: A Podcast For Women.” She's received five Milwaukee Press Club Awards, served as the Pfister Narrator and is the Wisconsin State Fair’s Celebrity Cream Puff Eating Champion of 2019.
