Writer and Social Worker Yifat Clein

This week’s Writer Wednesday features DWR member Yifat Clein!

Based in Detroit, Yifat is a mom of two, a social worker and a lover of books. Books have been her refuge during the most challenging times in her life. She enjoys stories of immigration, historical fiction and memoirs, and is currently writing her own memoir on her early life experiences.

She’s adapted and directed plays, published op- ed pieces in local publications and her greatest writing accomplishment is her continued commitment to improving her writing! Read more about Yifat below!

What writing projects are you currently working on?

I’m working on a memoir focused on my early life experiences.

What is your favorite part of the writing process?

I enjoy writing creative non-fiction — taking details from everyday life and bringing them to life. I also enjoy when writing brings back memories I would otherwise be unable to access. 

What does your writing workspace look like?

I have multiple writing spaces: Sometimes, it is my bed and my laptop on my lap. Sometimes, I use my home office. Sometimes I write in my car on my phone if I have a little down time between work and picking up my kids from school. Rarely, I go to a coffee shop. My life is full of activities so when I have a moment to myself, I need to quickly get into a creative space. I learned to be flexible on what that space looks like. 

When did you first discover your love for writing? Were there any key moments or influences that sparked your passion?

I have loved writing since my second-grade creative writing class where I wrote many short stories. My imagination was filled with ideas, and my teacher, who was a playwright himself, encouraged me to keep writing. In the past year I learned that writing helps me process and make sense of my life. This realization helps me re-commit to writing when it is hard to get back to the blank page.  

What is your favorite non-writing hobby?

Reading and listening to audio books.  

What is your favorite piece of writing advice?

Write every morning, stream of consciousness style, without allowing the inner critic to stop you. This is from Julia Cameron’s book, “The Artist’s Way.” Also, be kind to yourself and keep writing. 
— Interview by Olivia Han