January brought social media announcements of disabled writers going back to college. Between those posts, I saw others lament their lack of degrees. A lot of us, it seems, desire(d) a college education without the ability to obtain one. If what you want is knowledge (and not necessarily the paper), there are alternatives out there.
The eight options below take a variety of approaches. For the best results, mix and match. There are probably more positives or negatives for each option than listed.
If you're continuing your creative writing education without a traditional college path, how are you accomplishing it?
Alternatives to an MFA:
1. The library.
Pros: Free, numerous resources, librarians to assist you with research, Internet access, most libraries are at least somewhat accessible, go at your own pace. Some even have Gale Courses.
Cons: No consistent guidance, finding what you need might prove tricky, no critique or mentorship.
2. Auditing college classes.
Pros: Real college experience, guided learning, no pressure to turn in assignments. Reduced cost (but not free).
Cons: Accommodations might not be made for your needs, no participating in discussions, limited (or no) access to professors if you're struggling, timed commitment.
3. Online courses.
Pros: Stay home, certain classes have group discussions, more flexible schedule, guided learning, instructors may be available to help you.
Cons: Time commitment required, some classes cost money, technology used might not be right for every disability. Some places allow anyone to post a "course", so you have to be cautious.
4. A critique/writing group.
Pros: Free, feedback/advice, possible support outside the group.
Cons: Time commitment required, local groups might meet in inaccessible places, you might end up using your energy on other people's work more than your own.
5. Conferences.
Pros: Connect with industry professionals/other writers, interesting panels, possible pitch sessions, readings.
Cons: Most conferences cost serious money and aren't accessible. Online offerings are meager. Not great for long-term education.
6. Subscriptions/services.
Pros: Literary magazines can expose you to new work and styles; reading them also gives you insight into what they publish. Writing magazines can keep you updated on publishing news and give you editing tips. Some services submit for you and/or keep track of where you've submitted. Delivered to your door.
Cons: Costs money (and, with submission services, a lot), limited information, no interaction, you'd need quite a few different resources to cobble together a well-rounded experience.
7. Workshops.
Pros: Feedback/advice, instructor-lead sessions, some instructors might be writers you admire.
Cons: Same as conferences, except there seem to be more workshop opportunities available online.
8. Mentors.
Pros: One-on-one advice/feedback, more relaxed interactions, can help open doors or shape a career. Free (hopefully).
Cons: A bad mentor can mess you up worse than a bad conference because of the trust and proximity of the relationship. Finding the right one is difficult.
Showing posts with label Resources. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Resources. Show all posts
Friday, February 8, 2019
Thursday, November 3, 2016
Disabled/Neurodivergent Literary Links (Part 3)
Please see the Links of Interest tab for a full list of disabled/neurodivergent literary links.
A couple notes before today's post:
1. The Facebook group Poets and Writers with Disabilities has disappeared after some turmoil within it. Fear not, there has been discussion of a new group by some capable folks. I'll keep everyone posted.
2. There will be a post on Monday. Katharine Quarmby is giving a keynote address at the Nottingham Festival of Literature on disability portrayals in literature, and has graciously answered some questions for the blog.
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It's that time again! Another round-up of links for disabled and/or neurodivergent poets and writers is here. But, unfortunately, I've pretty much run out. Unless any of you can think of any I'm missing. Please share!
1. #LiterarySpoons is a hashtag on Twitter where any disabled/neurodivergent writer can Tweet links to whatever they write, even blog posts! There is even a "showing" time where everyone can share. The next one is November 10th. Remember to use "trigger warnings" when applicable.
2. #ArtfulSpoons is a hashtag similar to #LiterarySpoons, with the difference being any form of art can be included I've seen some gorgeous jewelry, lush fabric creations, delicious-looking culinary delights, and more displayed. The next "Gallery Night" is the 18th of November.
3. Zoeglossia is a community for disabled writers run by Jennifer Bartlett, Sheila Black, and Connie Voisine. The only project listed, as far as I can tell, is a retreat program for poets. But, since they're just getting off the ground, things may expand. Currently, their Facebook page appears non-operational.
4. Autonomous Press is a press that wants to further academic access and "promotes the representation of disability and/or disabled voices". There is also a NeuroQueer Books imprint which "focuses on queer issues, queering, sexuality, gender, or critical response to other aspects of identity (such as race, class, disability) as they interact with neurodivergence and psychological development".
5. The Writing in the Margins Mentor Program matches up an experienced editor or traditionally published author with an emerging writer from a marginalized group (in this case, writers of color and disabled writers). The purpose is to get a manuscript prepared to send to potential publishers. There is no cost, and the application form is straightforward. Applications are due by November 30th, so don't delay too long.
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Disabled and/or Neurodivergent Literary Links
Disabled/Neurodivergent Literary Links (Part 2)
A couple notes before today's post:
1. The Facebook group Poets and Writers with Disabilities has disappeared after some turmoil within it. Fear not, there has been discussion of a new group by some capable folks. I'll keep everyone posted.
2. There will be a post on Monday. Katharine Quarmby is giving a keynote address at the Nottingham Festival of Literature on disability portrayals in literature, and has graciously answered some questions for the blog.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
It's that time again! Another round-up of links for disabled and/or neurodivergent poets and writers is here. But, unfortunately, I've pretty much run out. Unless any of you can think of any I'm missing. Please share!
1. #LiterarySpoons is a hashtag on Twitter where any disabled/neurodivergent writer can Tweet links to whatever they write, even blog posts! There is even a "showing" time where everyone can share. The next one is November 10th. Remember to use "trigger warnings" when applicable.
2. #ArtfulSpoons is a hashtag similar to #LiterarySpoons, with the difference being any form of art can be included I've seen some gorgeous jewelry, lush fabric creations, delicious-looking culinary delights, and more displayed. The next "Gallery Night" is the 18th of November.
3. Zoeglossia is a community for disabled writers run by Jennifer Bartlett, Sheila Black, and Connie Voisine. The only project listed, as far as I can tell, is a retreat program for poets. But, since they're just getting off the ground, things may expand. Currently, their Facebook page appears non-operational.
4. Autonomous Press is a press that wants to further academic access and "promotes the representation of disability and/or disabled voices". There is also a NeuroQueer Books imprint which "focuses on queer issues, queering, sexuality, gender, or critical response to other aspects of identity (such as race, class, disability) as they interact with neurodivergence and psychological development".
5. The Writing in the Margins Mentor Program matches up an experienced editor or traditionally published author with an emerging writer from a marginalized group (in this case, writers of color and disabled writers). The purpose is to get a manuscript prepared to send to potential publishers. There is no cost, and the application form is straightforward. Applications are due by November 30th, so don't delay too long.
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Related Posts:
Disabled/Neurodivergent Literary Links (Part 2)
Friday, September 9, 2016
Disabled/Neurodivergent Literary Links (Part 2)
Please see the Links of Interest tab for a full list of disabled/neurodivergent literary links.
Last week, I blogged about publications related to, or seeking work from, disabled and/or neurodivergent writers. Most publications in that post have been around a while. And, while each is important and amazing, it can seem like the Disability Literary Community (sometimes referred to as DisLit or CripLit Community) isn't progressing.
Well, new things are happening! Want proof? Here are more resources new (the last year or two at most) to the disability literature scene.
1. Monstering Magazine is a literary magazine for disabled/neurodivergent writers who identify as female or nonbinary. They are also actively seeking multi-marginalized disabled women/nonbinary people to join their staff.
2. Tiny Tim Literary Review will have their first quarterly issue out by year's end.
From their Submittable: The goal is to normalize chronically ill/disability narratives in addition to humanizing medical professionals through their stories. We'll be taking in fiction, poetry, and nonfiction work primarily.
3. The Deaf Poets Society is an online literary and art journal for disabled and neurodivergent writers. The website has audio guidelines and text descriptions for all images. It has gotten some serious press coverage.
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In 2015, the AWP Conference & Bookfair came under fire for their less-than-stellar accommodations for disabled writers. As a response, a group decided to form the AWP Disability Caucus to "allow for disabled individuals to network and discuss common challenges related to identity, writing, and teaching while professionally leading a literary life". Because of the caucus and other individuals, the Association of Writers & Writing Programs is improving their accessibility.
The Disability Literature Consortium also began in response to how things were (and also, still can be) at the AWP Conference. The site has DisLit news and resources for disabled/neurodivergent writers (some I don't have on here).
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Poets and Writers with Disabilities is a Facebook group for disabled/neurodivergent poets and writers. It is currently able to be explored by people who aren't members of the group so nonmembers can get a feel for who everyone is and how it works. While being able to check it out without membership is beneficial, certain people may not feel comfortable discussing their disabilities and health in a space so open...
On Twitter, #CripLit is an excellent hashtag for all things disability literature/writing. There is also a monthly #CripLit Chat.
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Well, that concludes part two! Did I miss anything (old or new) that's amazing and not-to-be-missed? Let me know!
Last week, I blogged about publications related to, or seeking work from, disabled and/or neurodivergent writers. Most publications in that post have been around a while. And, while each is important and amazing, it can seem like the Disability Literary Community (sometimes referred to as DisLit or CripLit Community) isn't progressing.
Well, new things are happening! Want proof? Here are more resources new (the last year or two at most) to the disability literature scene.
1. Monstering Magazine is a literary magazine for disabled/neurodivergent writers who identify as female or nonbinary. They are also actively seeking multi-marginalized disabled women/nonbinary people to join their staff.
2. Tiny Tim Literary Review will have their first quarterly issue out by year's end.
From their Submittable: The goal is to normalize chronically ill/disability narratives in addition to humanizing medical professionals through their stories. We'll be taking in fiction, poetry, and nonfiction work primarily.
3. The Deaf Poets Society is an online literary and art journal for disabled and neurodivergent writers. The website has audio guidelines and text descriptions for all images. It has gotten some serious press coverage.
**************
In 2015, the AWP Conference & Bookfair came under fire for their less-than-stellar accommodations for disabled writers. As a response, a group decided to form the AWP Disability Caucus to "allow for disabled individuals to network and discuss common challenges related to identity, writing, and teaching while professionally leading a literary life". Because of the caucus and other individuals, the Association of Writers & Writing Programs is improving their accessibility.
The Disability Literature Consortium also began in response to how things were (and also, still can be) at the AWP Conference. The site has DisLit news and resources for disabled/neurodivergent writers (some I don't have on here).
****************
Poets and Writers with Disabilities is a Facebook group for disabled/neurodivergent poets and writers. It is currently able to be explored by people who aren't members of the group so nonmembers can get a feel for who everyone is and how it works. While being able to check it out without membership is beneficial, certain people may not feel comfortable discussing their disabilities and health in a space so open...
On Twitter, #CripLit is an excellent hashtag for all things disability literature/writing. There is also a monthly #CripLit Chat.
************
Well, that concludes part two! Did I miss anything (old or new) that's amazing and not-to-be-missed? Let me know!
Friday, September 2, 2016
Disabled and/or Neurodivergent Literary Links
Please see the Links of Interest tab for a full list of disabled/neurodivergent literary links.
Disabled/neurodivergent culture is alive and thriving, especially in the realm of literature. To prove it, here are awesome literary magazines focused on disability/neurodivergence or are adjacent to them in some way. And a literary contest about disability.
Disabled/neurodivergent culture is alive and thriving, especially in the realm of literature. To prove it, here are awesome literary magazines focused on disability/neurodivergence or are adjacent to them in some way. And a literary contest about disability.
1. Pentimento Magazine A literary magazine for the disability community which includes caretakers, friends, family, medical personnel, and the disabled people themselves. *Pentimento is "temporarily in suspension". Thank you Michael Northen for the update.*
2. Kaleidoscope Magazine From the website: "The material chosen for Kaleidoscope challenges and overcomes stereotypical, patronizing, and sentimental attitudes about disability. We accept the work of writers with and without disabilities; however the work of a writer without a disability must focus on some aspect of disability."
3. Doll Hospital Journal Print literary journal of mental health. Interested in how mental health and the ideas around it intersect with race, class, sexuality, etc.
4. Breath & Shadow holds the distinction of being the first online literary publication dedicated to disabled people. All (or most) of their staff is disabled, too.
5. Wordgathering is a journal of literary work and disability. (As of 12/1/16, this link now goes to their website instead of their Facebook.)
6. Bellevue Literary Review From their website: "We are devoted to publishing writing that brings together the perspectives of patients, caregivers, family members, students, healthcare professionals, and the general public, allowing for deeper understanding of others’ experiences."
7. Hospital Drive Literature and art on healing, health, and illness.
8. Barking Sycamores is a publication for neurodivergent writing. It has an annual print edition and publishes a variety of work, including hybrid pieces.
9. PEN 2 PAPER: A Disability-Focused Creative Writing Competition All entries must have a disabled character or have a disabled theme. They accept poetry, fiction, drama, comics, and nonfiction. No entry fee.
Edited 9/13/2016:
10. Amygdala Literary Magazine From the website: "Amygdala's goal is to build a sense of community by creating a platform for people to bring mental health issues into dialogue. We seek to achieve this through original works including: creative non-fiction, fiction, poetry, and art. We are looking for work that elucidates the wide range of issues and emotions mental health disorders evoke."
Next week, I'll be talking about interesting changes popping into existence around disabled/neurodivergent writing, including two new literary publications.
3. Doll Hospital Journal Print literary journal of mental health. Interested in how mental health and the ideas around it intersect with race, class, sexuality, etc.
4. Breath & Shadow holds the distinction of being the first online literary publication dedicated to disabled people. All (or most) of their staff is disabled, too.
5. Wordgathering is a journal of literary work and disability. (As of 12/1/16, this link now goes to their website instead of their Facebook.)
6. Bellevue Literary Review From their website: "We are devoted to publishing writing that brings together the perspectives of patients, caregivers, family members, students, healthcare professionals, and the general public, allowing for deeper understanding of others’ experiences."
7. Hospital Drive Literature and art on healing, health, and illness.
8. Barking Sycamores is a publication for neurodivergent writing. It has an annual print edition and publishes a variety of work, including hybrid pieces.
9. PEN 2 PAPER: A Disability-Focused Creative Writing Competition All entries must have a disabled character or have a disabled theme. They accept poetry, fiction, drama, comics, and nonfiction. No entry fee.
Edited 9/13/2016:
10. Amygdala Literary Magazine From the website: "Amygdala's goal is to build a sense of community by creating a platform for people to bring mental health issues into dialogue. We seek to achieve this through original works including: creative non-fiction, fiction, poetry, and art. We are looking for work that elucidates the wide range of issues and emotions mental health disorders evoke."
Next week, I'll be talking about interesting changes popping into existence around disabled/neurodivergent writing, including two new literary publications.