I am an almost-77-year-old great-grandmother semi-retired real estate broker in Austin. I am planning on writing my memoir and have been mulling over how to do it. I have led a very interesting, tragic, adventurous, outrageous life that would probably fill at least two volumes. I look forward to reading your forthcoming book, “Against the Workshop:…” I know you are very busy doing all your writing, reviews, criticisms, etc. Would you consider mentoring or co-writing with me? I especially like your Fuck You attitude. I love profanity and fuck is probably my favorite word. If you have any interest at all, please let me know. I can send you a brief resume of my life and some very interesting photos, news articles, etc. By the way, I lived in Houston from 1963 to 1974, when I went screaming down the highway and moved to Austin, leaving a note for my daughter who was a camp counselor in Wimbe4rley. (By the way, I hope no one else has access to this comment page.)

I would appreciate an answer from you, but if it comes, I will be amazed! Thank you very much for hopefully reading this.

Sunshine Williams

I first read you through your Oct. Huffpo column and thought it was brilliant; kudos to you for daring to say that the emperor is naked. I’ve since read several of your articles and continue to agree with much of your points though I haven’t read 3/4 of the writers you critique. I’m nearly 60, have 3 degrees in French and English from the ivy league and Berkeley, read and write in 3 other languages, live half the time outside of the US, and teach lit. I shared your beliefs and especially your enthusiasm for political honesty until finding your pronouncements re: Lan Samantha Chang’s last novel. I also had greatly anticipated it and wrangled a pre-release copy. Did you read it? Honestly it’s one of the worst novels I’ve ever read which is not big crime, but as she directs the ‘best’ MFA program it’s unsettling. I’m curious.

In particular I’m fascinated by your theory of MFA programs developing during the 70s & 80s; I think you’re right. I’ve also asked myself why post-modern theory took roots at the same time and its role in the mess of current humanities curriculum.

For what it’s worth I have a friend at the U. of Iowa who tells me that the MFA program currently carefully picks wealthy students from Harvard/Princeton/etc. whose undergrad profs were (as you suggest) friends/students of the Iowa crew; they and their families will be receiving many donation requests. A few poorer students receive grants, and the entire program is heavily funded by grants. Many other Iowa alumni will give based on the MFA reputation. So the program does function as a cash-generating machine for the university, a little like athletics in that it’s academic value is doubtful.

Thanks for all the excellent ideas.

I’ve been defending you in the Huff Post comments section, on your “rules for writers” and the criticism by Andrew Shaffer. It’s been fun, really. I’m quite fond of the piece. Very much something I needed, to affirm, clarify and strengthen my own perspective. Thank you,

William Hunter Duncan

Really, that was a bit OUT THERE. So sorry.

Also. Fuck the niche.

Mr. Philosopher! I just happened upon your article in the Huffington Post. I was actually researching an article I’m doing on Monsanto, the GMO Corn Company, and your article popped up.

What a wonderful article. How True you are. How aligned with your divinity you are, sir! I just wanted you to know that your article was heard round the world, because it was ALL truth. And it was the sword of truth, as well. Not to make you all prideful, but you really have an ear for the Truth.

Are you teaching writing? You should. With all the false teachers out there, you would be teaching more than writing. You would be teaching How To Live Truthfully in the World. I’m going to copy your essay for all of my friends.

And your name has “Shiva” in it, too! That I’m sure is no coincidence, as Shiva destroys all that is not the Truth!!!
God knew what He was doing when He gave you that name, I suppose!

Sincerely,
Maria Marino

Sorry for “Don’t want to give it” but I want to be alone, away from the crowds now. Wait, why am I apologizing? Fuck off! ;0

Excellent, thanks!

K

I am writing in response to your piece on The Huffington Post. I like it. I am a philosopher and writer of political and social commentary with a global audience. I haven’t taken the next step and written a book. I am unsure of when I will. See my bio link below.

Ted
Daphne, AL
my biography: http://www.tedburnettresume.blogspot.com