I'm making slow progress on many fronts. Blogging obviously hasn't been one of them for a while, but I thought I'd check in which a quick update and get back to profound updates when possible.
I have just two classes left in the teaching practicum that's part of my MFA. I've held onto about 10 students for five weeks now. I was worried since it was free I wouldn't get a commitment, but people are hanging in.
We're working on the art of re-writing outside of class and writing theory in class. Exercises, lecture by me and discussion of short stories and brief creative non-fiction. It's tough to do a lot of novels in six weeks, but I think short pieces have been helpful in exemplifying technique.
I've tried to give them a variet of readings including "An Old Man With Enormous Wings" by Marquez and Cheever's thriller-like "The Sutton Place Story." It's a great look at how character affects plot and plot informs theme. Or at least I think it is.
I found a Photoshop contest picture that was surreal and used that for a writing prompt and spurred some people to creativity that was wonderful.
On the novel front, I'm working on rewrites and polish and aiming toward a final draft for readers for next semester.
There's goodness in it at the moment, though it's not perfect.
Really wanted to get something on record since my Oliver film was my last entry. Hope all is well for everyone.
3 comments:
I'd figured you were just off, being a busy bee! ;)
Wow, your absence is so justified. My non-blogging time has largely been spent staring at a blank screen until my forehead starts to bleed...
Cool about the class working out. That can be so rewarding. I like having a small writing class. I did last year and it was a joy. Keep up the good work.
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