Writing the Virus

A singular collection of writing by 31 authors exploring the experience of Covid-19 in its initial months. Drawn from works published between mid-April and September 2020 in StatORec magazine, WRITING THE VIRUS presents a wide range of perspectives on lockdown, quarantine, social distancing, and the politicization of the virus. A keen sense of urgency prevails throughout, an understanding that the authors are chronicling something, responding to something that is changing them and the social fabric all around them. Curated by StatORec’s Brooklyn- and Berlin-based editors, WRITING THE VIRUS is a unique, real-time literary response to our ongoing global health crisis. “How thrilling and comforting to witness some of our most powerful writers wielding their best weapons against 'the invisible enemy'—shimmering artistry, ruthless candor, and a fearless gaze." - Debra Jo Immergut"An important and compelling reminder of the days we might otherwise lose to the haze of the past and evidence of the myriad reckonings—public and personal—that will shape us going forward." - Oscar Villalon"Preserves the truth of a bitter, bitter time, maybe it will even help us mourn." - John Freeman"A testament to the vital role of writers—as witnesses, chroniclers, translators, synthesizers, resistors—during uncertain times, Writing the Virus will energize, enrage, and give you reasons to be hopeful." - Margot Douaihy"Vulnerable, bold, tentative, utopic, WRITING THE VIRUS gave me un-Zoomy succor from some of the best essayists writing today." - Carmen Giménez Smith