Picture a storyteller who spun a decade-long tale of love, loss, and self-discovery—meet Michelle Hart! This New Jersey-based author has captured hearts with her debut novel, We Do What We Do in the Dark, a poignant exploration of queerness and grief. With a knack for crafting intimate narratives, Hart’s work resonates with readers craving authentic, emotional stories.
From her days as a book editor to her rise as a literary voice, Hart’s journey is as compelling as her prose. Her fiction and nonfiction have graced prestigious publications, showcasing her versatility and depth. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this rising star in contemporary literature.
The Making of Michelle Hart
Born and raised in suburban New Jersey, Michelle Hart grew up as an only child and self-described tomboy, forging a unique connection to storytelling. The loss of her mother before her sophomore year of college profoundly shaped her, sparking themes of grief and identity that permeate her work. Hart pursued an MFA at Rutgers-Newark, honing her craft and developing her minimalist yet evocative style. Her early career as Assistant Books Editor at O, the Oprah Magazine and Oprah Daily immersed her in the literary world, where she championed LGBTQ+ voices and refined her editorial eye.
Michelle Hart’s Unforgettable Stories
Hart’s debut novel, We Do What We Do in the Dark (2022), is a masterclass in understated storytelling. The novel follows Mallory, a college freshman grappling with her mother’s death, as she embarks on a secretive affair with an older, married professor. Hart’s minimalist prose captures the nuances of shame, desire, and queerness, earning praise for its emotional depth. Published by Riverhead, the book was named one of the best audiobooks of 2022 by The New York Times.
Beyond her novel, Hart’s short fiction has appeared in outlets like Joyland and Electric Literature, showcasing her ability to craft compact yet powerful stories. Her nonfiction essays, published in The New Yorker, Catapult, and The Rumpus, explore cultural and personal themes with wit and clarity. Hart’s work often delves into the interplay of light and dark—both literally and metaphorically—drawing readers into her characters’ inner worlds. She’s currently at work on a new novel, promising more of her signature introspective storytelling.
Why Michelle Hart Matters
Michelle Hart’s impact lies in her ability to portray complex emotions with unflinching honesty. Her exploration of queerness, grief, and shame resonates deeply in an era where marginalized voices are reclaiming their narratives. By weaving personal experiences into universal themes, Hart offers readers a mirror for their own struggles and triumphs. Her role as a former editor also amplifies her influence, as she continues to uplift diverse authors through her platform. Hart’s fellowships from institutions like the Kenyon Review and Sewanee Writers Conference underscore her growing prominence in literary circles.
- Born: New Jersey, USA
- Key Work: We Do What We Do in the Dark (2022)
- Awards: Fellowships from Kenyon Review, Sewanee Writers Conference, and New Jersey State Council on the Arts
- Fun Fact: Hart once used Apple’s “invert colors” feature to write nighttime scenes, channeling their eerie, secretive vibe!
Snag We Do What We Do in the Dark and dive into Michelle Hart’s hauntingly beautiful world of contemporary fiction!