Monday, January 15, 2007

Wow

I'm not even sure what to say about my second MFA residency. I learned so much, yet I can't think of one single point that makes sense to post about. I guess the biggest (and hardest!) lesson was that even though I've learned SO much in the last six months, I still have a long way to go to completely understanding the art of creating a short story.

Now that I understand the basics of story arch (though I don't always employ those basics well), I need to use other elements to make sure the story gets told in the best and clearest way. My new mentor, Christina Shea (who seems brilliant), talked to me about how I need use all the elements of the story, like setting, the details of the characters, and the plot to truly maximize the potential of the story's theme. For example, think about what setting a story in NYC says about the theme as compared to say, setting it in a smaller city. This is all fairly overwhelming--so much to think about!-- but at least I know enough now to realize what I don't know, which is half the battle, I think. Best Blogger Tips

7 comments:

Idiot Cook said...

I hear you, Bug. I've been wanting to post a "here's what I learned at residency" list, but my mind is overwhelmed.

I think knowing what you don't know is more than half the battle--so you are more than well on your way. :)

Great seeing you--let's make plans soon.

TI said...

I guess we're all in the same place. I'm there, I'm there. It's too intensive an experience to have any sense of "what sticks" until later, as it comes out in the writing. it was SOOOO good to see you! TI

Gili Warsett said...

One of the best parts of the program was seeing your work and the work of others who I had read first semester.

I'm going to link to you. Then maybe some of your organization and calmness will wear off on me.

Happy writing!

-G

Sara said...

Thanks for getting in touch, I'm going to link to you and the everyone else. I second that emotion when it comes to all the feelings about the residency expressed by you an the others. Anyone started writing yet?

Anonymous said...

Wow is right, Bug! I'm glad that the experience continues to be positive for you, and that you feel like you're making progress. Congratulations! (I've missed your posts while you were away)

Becca said...

I so much appreciate your sharing tidbits of your writing residency - it's like a little gift for me, to get a peek at some of your insights.

Good luck with all your efforts this semester!

Repeater said...

I feel like I haven't stopped running for two months. What the hell do I do all day?