Featured Writers

Holly Klinger

Participant in our summer 2009 workshop for adults living on a low income and/or with a disability. The workshop was held in downtown Portland in our Writers Resource Room.

Holly Klinger, 21, is a native of Southeast Portland. She heard about Write Around Portland through a teacher at the transition center at Portland State University (PSU), where she graduated this June. Holly has cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair, but she has a remarkable sense of independence.

In June, Holly moved into her own place. The piece she wrote for our anthology is an honest account of her feelings about this process, and she uses beautifully vivid descriptions that makes her love of writing obvious.

Hesitant Like a Butterfly

by Holly Klinger

I hope that I will be joyful in my apartment, instead of stressed, because of all the changes I have to do. I’m trusting my caregivers with the keys to my apartment complex, but this was my goal, so here I am doing it. I’m like a butterfly coming out of a cocoon, like my auntie said, and I can’t wait until I’m completely out of it.

Fuzzy pink rug, blue hide-away couch with wooden arm rests with a couple scratches to make it look warm and comfy. Blue velour wingback chair, so soft that you want to cuddle up with it. A table right by it with a pink butterfly tablecloth that looks mystical. A white cherub plant holder with a pink flower in her hair and her hands and legs crossed. In the corner, on the coffee table, you see Hawaiian flowers: white with pink orchids, and a hint of yellow.

I wanted to be independent. People in high school were talking about the future and moving out. So I started thinking about it too. I always liked to plan, and have challenges in my life. I don’t like to just sit back.

Interview with featured writer Holly Klinger

Biography writer and interviewer: Greg Campanile, Write Around Portland intern, pictured above with Holly

How was your experience in the Write Around Portland workshop?

I liked it. I have taken writing classes at PSU, and the Write Around Portland workshops were more laid-back. It’s a calm place to write. There’s not too much pressure.

How was it to share your work with the other participants?

I was kind of embarrassed but it was good. I was happy to hear other people’s work, and I got the sense that they were happy to hear mine, too.

Your piece, Hesitant Like a Butterfly, is about moving out of your mother’s house and living on your own. How has that been for you?

It’s been challenging. My mom used to be my primary caregiver. So now the challenge is finding care and getting along with people. But overall it feels good to be more independent. I’m starting a job soon at Mocha Mama’s coffee shop at Mt. Hood Community College.

How do you feel about reading your piece at the upcoming anthology release party and community reading?

I’m nervous, I might use my communication device, but I’m also proud of myself.

What do you love about writing?

Writing is helpful to get everything out. It’s just in my heart. I hope someday it can be my job. I’d like to write a book about my life, and I want to compile everything I’ve written over the years.


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TAKE A Writing Workshop SIGN UP for Write Around Portland News WRITING RESOURCES	Publications & Writers Featured Writers Holly Klinger Participant in our summer 2009 workshop for adults living on a low income and/or with a disability. The workshop was held in downtown Portland in our Writers Resource Room. Holly Klinger, 21, is a native of Southeast Portland. She heard about Write Around Portland through a teacher at the transition center at Portland State University (PSU), where she graduated this June. Holly has cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair, but she has a remarkable sense of independence. In June, Holly moved into her own place. The piece she wrote for our anthology is an honest account of her feelings about this process, and she uses beautifully vivid descriptions that makes her love of writing obvious. Hesitant Like a Butterfly by Holly Klinger I hope that I will be joyful in my apartment, instead of stressed, because of all the changes I have to do. I’m trusting my caregivers with the keys to my apartment complex, but this was my goal, so here I am doing it. I’m like a butterfly coming out of a cocoon, like my auntie said, and I can’t wait until I’m completely out of it. Fuzzy pink rug, blue hide-away couch with wooden arm rests with a couple scratches to make it look warm and comfy. Blue velour wingback chair, so soft that you want to cuddle up with it. A table right by it with a pink butterfly tablecloth that looks mystical. A white cherub plant holder with a pink flower in her hair and her hands and legs crossed. In the corner, on the coffee table, you see Hawaiian flowers: white with pink orchids, and a hint of yellow. I wanted to be independent. People in high school were talking about the future and moving out. So I started thinking about it too. I always liked to plan, and have challenges in my life. I don’t like to just sit back. © Holly Klinger and Write Around Portland Interview with featured writer Holly Klinger Biography writer and interviewer: Greg Campanile, Write Around Portland intern, pictured above with Holly How was your experience in the Write Around Portland workshop? I liked it. I have taken writing classes at PSU, and the Write Around Portland workshops were more laid-back. It’s a calm place to write. There’s not too much pressure. How was it to share your work with the other participants? I was kind of embarrassed but it was good. I was happy to hear other people’s work, and I got the sense that they were happy to hear mine, too. *Your piece, Hesitant Like a Butterfly, is about moving out of your mother’s house and living on your own. How has that been for you?* It’s been challenging. My mom used to be my primary caregiver. So now the challenge is finding care and getting along with people. But overall it feels good to be more independent. I’m starting a job soon at Mocha Mama’s coffee shop at Mt. Hood Community College. How do you feel about reading your piece at the upcoming anthology release party and community reading? I’m nervous, I might use my communication device, but I’m also proud of myself. What do you love about writing? Writing is helpful to get everything out. It’s just in my heart. I hope someday it can be my job. I’d like to write a book about my life, and I want to compile everything I’ve written over the years.	"I was happy to hear other people’s work, and I got the sense that they were happy hear mine, too." Holly Klinger, Write Around Portland Participant Provide a writer with a writing journal, pen, bus tickets, and an anthology. Featured Writer Holly Klinger Click here to read about past featured writers.
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