“Unlocking the Secrets: Crafting a Thriving MFA-Worthy Writing Life Without the Degree”
Finding your way as a writer can often feel like wandering through a dense fog, can’t it? You know you want to weave words into something beautiful, but the paths to wisdom and encouragement can be as elusive as that perfect metaphor you’ve been chasing. Writers, regardless of where they are on their journeys, all crave a robust community—a sanctuary for mentorship, fellowship, and perhaps a bit of motivation to push through those difficult drafts. So, what does a supportive writing community look like? Is it a group armed with red pens, ready to edit your flaws? Or is it simply a circle of friends willing to cheer you on, even when you’ve convinced yourself that you’re just avoiding the existential crisis of “What even is a real writer?”
But as I’ve learned—especially during my fifteen years as an MFA advisor—”writing community” is a term as fluid as ink on a good page. Everyone’s needs are distinct, and not everyone requires the same kind of support. If you’ve ever donned the title of “writer,” you might find yourself nodding along. In this piece, we’ll delve into options beyond the traditional MFA programs, exploring alternative resources for budding authors that ignite creativity, foster collaboration, and provide the camaraderie we all need to succeed. Want to uncover these gems? LEARN MORE.
Where else to turn for writing mentorship, fellowship, and motivation
Among my writer friends, including some established authors, the search for a strong writing community is a recurrent theme. But “writing community” can mean very different things to different writers, because no two need exactly the same kind of support.
We all have different temperaments, goals, styles, and habits. Some crave tough love and hard deadlines. Others require a steady stream of praise to keep going. Some will feel like a Real Writer only when their first book hits the bestseller lists, if then. Other lucky souls have never known an instant of Impostor Syndrome, regardless of their publishing status.
The MFA advantage
As an MFA advisor for 15 years, I met all types of writers and watched how they sorted themselves socially, what kind of help they sought and needed (not always the same thing), and how their lives changed during and after their years in our degree program. This experience left no doubt in my mind that a strong MFA program is one of the best sources of all-around support any emerging writer can hope for.
A good MFA program delivers much more than the “terminal” MFA degree. Ideally, it prepares students…
