Today is the big day! I’m in Lexington for the Kentucky Women Writers Conference. I’ll start the day teaching a workshop called “Writing On The Dark Side.” It seems that’s what I do–and I hope to impart a little bit of what I know about it to the twelve brave women who made it into the class. I’m a writer by craft, so teaching is always an exciting challenge for me. (Did I mention I love my job?!)
Tonight I’ll be reading with Joyce Carol Oates. It’s certainly the most thrilling thing that’s happened to me in my short professional life. I’ll be talking about how Joyce Carol Oates can be your mentor, too. (It’s easier than it sounds, though it doesn’t involve having her over for tea, I’m afraid. But she hasn’t been to my house either.)
Here’s an in-depth interview that Cheryl Truman at the Lexington Herald-Leader did with JCO. And interviews she did with poet Lisa Williams and me.
If you don’t know much about Joyce and her work, you’re in for a treat. And if you’re a writer, you should be reading her already! Start with the story “Where Are You Going, and Where Have You Been.” It’s on her website.
Wish me luck!
Good luck! I’m sure you’ll do great!
Thanks, Tia. The workshop went very well this morning–It’s fun to be back in Kentucky!
I am thrilled that you get to read with Joyce Carol Oates. She’s been one of my favorite femme writers since I read her short story, “Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been” back in college.
Thanks for sharing the JCO links.