Personal Narrative: What We Talk About Love By Raymond Carver

Within the past few years, my bookshelf has broadened immensely. During undergrad, when I wasn't reading what was required, I read the writers and genres I always had. However, I knew if I wanted to become a serious writer after I graduated and grow in the ways I needed to, this static pattern needed to change. I began taking recommendations from what those I respected read, and the work from recent writers I had met. During this time I discovered an entire new group of my now favorite writers, although I am careful to not revert back to my old habits. One of these writers I discovered was Raymond Carver. After reading his collection, What We Talk About When We Talk About Love, Carver didn't just become a writer I enjoyed, but one that entertained, intrigued, yet confused me. I was drawn towards his unique style, especially since I had always read work that was littered with figurative language. Carver's writing is simplified, but the ideas and meanings are extremely complex. This seems to juxtapose each story, as well as my feelings. I am always left wondering what Carver had meant, yet studying the way he crafts such dynamic works. A few writers I have also discovered within the past two years are Colum McCann, Anne Lemmot and Dorthea Brande. I read Let This Great World Spin after it won

I am yearning to have my work evaluated by professionals who can give this insightful feedback not just once in a while, but always. I want my work to grow and thrive and feel it cannot if I remain working the way I am. Also, I was a student who always enjoyed workshops and connecting with a community of writers regularly. I learned so much from other students in my writing courses and would like that to continue. Last summer I visited a low-residency program's workshop and knew afterwards it was time to make a change-- to give my writing the chance I feel it