I'm thinking a lot more these days about persuing an MFA in creative writing. I don't know, I guess I just think maybe I'd have a slightly better chance at getting my poetry published if those three letters could appear in my queries. I resent that a little bit, but on the upside, even if I don't get published right away, I could start applying for teaching positions, either as a high school english teacher or better yet--a small state college or university.
Just some thoughts. Feeling my way around my academia withdrawals. Not being in school--moreover not knowing what the nature of my continued education will look like or when it will rev up again-- sort of feels like unemployment, to me. Just a little bit. Maybe it's because I view an advanced education as currency. And in fact, it is currency.
Best of luck to you! I really wanted to do the MFA Creative Writing thing this year too ... but you've probably seen my posts concerning having to withdraw ... too expensive for now. I've noticed, though, that a lot of places have TA programs - so you get work experience AND a degree with less debt. Something to keep in mind.
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Go for it if its what you feel in your gut. I wish you nothing but luck.
ReplyDeleteI don't think I ever could though, the whole process of getting my BA in creative writing felt like a herding process to me, as if I were being led to the straight and narrow literary path that all must follow. I just don't think I can play that game anymore though. If I am never published because of this, so be it.
I just shared this link with several people who are going to be doing NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) with me this year. After reading your post today, maybe it would be an encouragement to you too.
ReplyDeleteIt's advice on writing from one of my all time favorite contemporary authors, Charles Martin. I know that you are not attempting to write fiction but poetry, yet I think you would especially like the part about how many rejections he faced before his first book was published. Oh, and his thoughts about reading aloud. =)
If nothing else, maybe his advice will be a good reminder that writers write. It's part of who they are, as deep as their DNA. After reading his article, I think he would tell you something along the line of "Three little letters after your name won't tell you or others if you are really a writer. You will know that by whether or not you need to write."
http://charlesmartinbooks.com/blog/entry/rules_for_writers/
Thanks everybody!
ReplyDeleteLauren, I am intriqued by the TA idea. I will definitely look into that. Thanks!
Diego, your reservations about persuing an MFA in creative writing resonates. I wasn't a creative writing major, but I knew a lot of people who were and attended a lot of poetry readings and the like. Honestly, all their work sounds the same. There was DEFINITELY herding going on, there. I may encounter the same in another writing program, but I'm hoping perhaps there's a little more freedom with a post-baccalaureate program. Who knows. Worth a try, I guess. Thanks for the encouragement, I really appreciate it!
Ann, thanks for sharing this link. I have been considering doing NaNoWriMo this next month, but am a little intimidated by the whole thing. I've wanted to do it for three years, now, and just never have. Maybe it's the kick I need to freshen up my writing. Thanks for the encouragement!
I know someone who recently got their MFA if you'd like to talk it through with someone...
ReplyDeleteKLZ, I would love to meet your friend! It would be nice to hear what this person's experience was...
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