Let me come back to an idea—this idea I had for a perfect degree in creative writing. When I was 18, I conceptualized what I believed to be the ideal creative writing program: it would be a short program, only 2 years; it would have to be affordable; and it would have to incorporate pragmatism—in other words, this program would also have to teach its students important survival skills.
The rigor of the program would come from its core curriculum. Learning how to craft good stories, in clear prose, with beginnings, middles, and ends. Like a good art school, we would have to perfect the basics before moving on. Perhaps one of the most vital skills for any writer is resourcefulness—being willing to take on odd jobs, being willing to explore life. This program thus would be inexpensive, progressive, and practical in nature.
I recently realized that I can go to this school -- now! All I need are good novels and short stories to read, free time, and my desire to read like a writer. As for writing drills. I can easily look them up on the web. When I can't find a good writing drill, I can simply shadow the great writers. I have recently tried this with James Baldwin and Raymond Carver.
The hard part -- as with any true learning enterprise -- is the discipline. I need to do these exercises (just like physical exercise) to continue to master my craft.
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Pure Writerly Moments 2 (Short Stories, Essays, Book Reviews, and More)
Ficción GeneralWhat is the connection between artistic expression and the joy of living? How can one best live a literary life? This book is a collection of small word-projects. Each examines a book, a moment, a story that helps to deepen the author's literary adv...
