When Barbara Diggs first set foot in Paris over 24 years ago, she expected it to be a short, two-year stint. Now, over two decades later, she’s firmly rooted in the City of Light, balancing life as a fiction writer and a freelance author, and making her mark on the literary world. Her journey from Washington, DC, to Paris, and from non-fiction to fiction, is one that speaks to the resilience, versatility, and passion of an artist fully committed to her craft.
From DC to Paris: A Journey Across the Atlantic
Barbara’s story began in Washington, DC, where her love for writing took root. What started as a temporary adventure in Paris turned into a lifelong journey. This journey has had a profound impact on her writing style, offering her a unique perspective that blends American storytelling with the cultural richness of France. The city’s romantic allure, bustling streets, and diverse artistic community have inspired much of her work, helping her create stories that resonate with readers worldwide.
A Deep Dive into Fiction
Barbara Diggs has an impressive array of fiction pieces that have been published or are forthcoming in respected literary journals. Some of these include *Your Impossible Voice*, *Funicular Magazine*, *Emerge Literary Journal*, *Fractured Lit*, *SmokeLong Quarterly*, *The Disappointed Housewife*, and *FlashBack Fiction*. Her ability to navigate different genres and styles has allowed her stories to capture the nuances of human emotions, relationships, and the complexities of life.
Her fiction has also received recognition and acclaim, including Highly Commended awards from prestigious competitions like *The Bridport Prize* and the *Bath Flash Fiction Awards*. In 2023, her work was a finalist for *SmokeLong Quarterly’s Microfiction Award* and the *Best of the Net 2023*. This dedication to her craft, coupled with her ability to weave compelling narratives, has earned her nominations for some of the most sought-after awards in the literary world, such as the *Pushcart Prize*, *Best Small Fictions*, and *Best Microfictions*.
Excerpt from Barbara Diggs’ Fiction
Barbara’s storytelling is known for its lyrical prose, emotional depth, and sharp observations about life. Here’s a short excerpt from one of her published pieces:
“I didn’t know it then, but I was storing all those tiny moments—the touch of his hand, the sound of his laughter, the way his eyes crinkled when he smiled. I held onto them like treasures, like little shards of light I could reach for when the world turned dark. Maybe that’s all we are in the end: a collection of moments, some bright, some dim, all stitched together to make us whole.”
This passage showcases Barbara’s ability to transform ordinary moments into profound reflections on love, loss, and the human experience. Her work is not just about telling a story—it’s about capturing the essence of what it means to live, love, and remember.
Writing for Adolescents: A Foray into Non-Fiction
While fiction is where Barbara’s heart lies, she has also made significant contributions to non-fiction, having authored six books for adolescents. These books span a variety of topics and showcase her versatility as a writer, blending factual information with engaging storytelling. Her ability to shift between fiction and non-fiction demonstrates a mastery of her craft, making her an inspiring figure for aspiring writers.
A Life Beyond Words
Despite her impressive accomplishments in the literary world, Barbara Diggs leads a life that is as full and dynamic as her writing. She lives in Paris with her husband, teenage sons, and a turtle, balancing family life with her creative pursuits. This balance is a testament to her dedication, not only as a writer but also as a mother and partner. Her ability to juggle multiple roles while continuing to produce award-winning work is a reminder that passion and persistence can lead to extraordinary achievements.
Currently, Barbara is Working on…
Barbara is currently working on a novella-in-flash, a form that combines her love for concise storytelling with the challenge of crafting a larger narrative. As she continues to explore different genres and styles, she remains committed to honing her craft and pushing the boundaries of her creativity.
In her quest to balance writing, family, and life, Barbara Diggs is also trying to remember to sit with her back straight—an apt metaphor for the discipline, patience, and resilience required to thrive as a writer. It’s a small detail, but it’s one that encapsulates her journey: staying grounded, focused, and always looking forward.
Final Thoughts
Barbara Diggs’ journey from Washington, DC, to Paris, from non-fiction to fiction, is a testament to the power of storytelling. Whether she’s crafting microfiction, flash fiction, or longer narratives, Barbara’s work is always imbued with authenticity, grace, and a deep understanding of the human experience. As she continues to make her mark on the literary world, readers eagerly await the next chapter in her story—one that promises to be as rich, compelling, and unforgettable as the tales she writes.
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