Clarion West

Hiya. Randy Henderson, Clarion West 2009 graduate here.

Just wanted to say congratulations, and welcome. :)

I also wanted to address some likely questions and give you some things to get started on right away.

First, all those questions you have. You will be receiving a packet soon that will tell you much of the practical stuff (where you will be, what to bring, how the workshop works, etc.), so wait for that packet before worrying about those kinds of fundamental questions.

I believe someone already posted about the various blogs where previous students posted about their experience, which will give you a "day in the life" overview.

Les and Neile are wonderful in answering questions. Beyond that, feel free to email me questions at randyhenderson99 (at) gmail (dot) com. For example, should you bring a bunch of story ideas to the workshop? It is generally recommended that you come up with your story ideas in the workshop, but if you want to bring an idea or two ready to go for the later weeks, when your brain is a little burned out, that can be done. I think though that people find it much more satisfying and usually interesting to see what they can come up with in the creative environment of the workshop.

Now, what can you get started on right away?

First, figure out what it is you want to learn from the specific instructors. One way to do this is by reading their works over the next three months, and noting what it is that each author does really well that you wish you could do in your own work. This means you should be reading a new author at least every couple of weeks between now and the workshop.

Second, start making up the time with your loved ones now. You are going to be gone for six weeks. Even if you manage to visit your loved ones on a weekend or two, that is still a long time apart. You will be spending the next three months getting ahead on work or other responsibilities, making financial and practical arrangements, reading up on your instructors, etc. It is very easy for the thing that gets sacrificed to make room for all this extra work to be the time and attention you give your loved ones. Perhaps you plan on spending a special weekend with your loved ones before you leave. A weekend is not enough, especially if you have been so busy and focused on Clarion West for the three months before the workshop that your loved ones are already quietly resenting it before you even leave. You should begin to make extra time with your loved ones starting now. This will minimize the emotional impact, and potential tensions, of your being gone for six weeks.

Some students also made plans for regular video conferencing dates, or to send little notes in the mail every day, etc.

Beyond that, just continue to write, and keep those writing muscles strong and limber.

And again, congratulations!

Cheers,

Randy Henderson