| It’s been a great debate throughout creative writing circles: to get a higher degree in one’s art form, or pursue it on his or her own, developing skills individually as he or she moves through artistic paths? With the rise of M.F.A. programs and their growing popularity among young writers, the question has become even more relevant. Recently, CreativeWritingMFA.org reported that “Getting into an MFA program in Creative Writing is easier now than anytime in history because of the dramatic growth in the number of programs and the development of low-residency programs.” However, not all artists believe in advanced degrees as a way to further their abilities, choosing to go it alone and discover their style on their own. Do writers need an M.F.A. in creative writing, or is natural talent enough?
To M.F.A. or not to M.F.A.?
The question of whether to pursue an M.F.A. should ultimately depend on a writer’s self examination of his or her own skills. Those with a strong individual sense of direction may work better alone, without the pressures of deadlines or a classroom setting, where it is often challenging to sort the constructive criticism from comments that will not help the author. Erin Millar, a 2009 graduate of Ohio Northern University who now lives and writes in Worthington, Ohio, said in a personal interview that although she may pursue an M.F.A. in the future, she is “content” with where she has gotten with her writing on her own.
“One of the great things about working on projects on my own has been the simple feeling of freedom,” Millar said. “With the exception of the projects I'm editing with the publication in mind, the others I'm able to write without having the worry about class deadlines or what my classmates will say. I've been able to think things through more.”
For some, though, the notion of freedom as a writer means something a little different, leading them toward higher education as a form of improvement. “In order to have the best chance at exploring my potential as a writer, I needed the freedom to wholeheartedly explore literature from the writer's point of view,” said Dennis Norris, who will enter Sarah Lawrence University’s program this fall. “I want to have the chance to study every possible influence as a writer.”
Five Reasons to Consider Getting an M.F.A.
M.F.A. programs give writers a sense of community.
Writing is a solitary activity, a pursuit that is often seen as a non lucrative endeavor, and ultimately, a difficult task that requires innovation and patience. In both writing workshop classes and outside activities such as readings and department activities, the program allows students to talk shop, share work, and enter a support network for their projects.
“By nature, writing is an isolating activity; writers need a community to stay motivated and sane,” Yin Yin Lu writes in her article “What Do You Do With an M.F.A. in Creative Writing?”, published in The Eye, a supplementary arts magazine of The Columbus Daily Spectator (September 24, 2009). “This community, of course, consists of both students and faculty.”
They give authors time to write.
While many programs require students to take literary or theory classes to supplement the creative courses, M.F.A. programs are first and foremost about allowing writers to explore their skills. Using this time wisely transcends the benefit of classes and workshops – the benefits of self discovery are among the most fruitful.
“I'm not sure that getting an MFA really teaches you about the business end of writing, but what it does do is allow you time to read and work,” Lori D’Angelo, a graduate of West Virginia University’s M.F.A. program said in a personal interview. “That reading and writing really improves the quality of your work, if you take the time that you have in the MFA program seriously.”
They provide connections to the literary world.
Ideally, students leave the program not just with a degree, but having worked with a number of experienced authors who can often provide friendship and advice long after graduation.
Funding is available.
Most programs offer teaching assistantships or research positions that can allow students to get their degree almost entirely for free. Though this positions are competitive, applying for one can alleviate the financial woes of returning to school.
They sharpen more than just creative writing.
Workshops teach editing skills, how to give constructive criticism, and how to speak openly about one’s own work. Poet Nate Arida, who will enter the University of Wichita this fall, said in a personal interview that he is looking for every opportunity to improve, including honest criticism. “I'm looking for someone to chop down the legs of the stool I stand on with one quick strike so I fall hard and fast on my ass, challenging me to reshape some views and rebuild in slightly different ways,” he said. “Truly, I'm in search of an intelle ... |
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