Comments on: creating literary community

By: Summer Wood

Summer Wood — Wed, 25 May 2011 23:21:24 +0000

Deirdra, keep looking — there’s lots of free (or “pay what you can”) stuff here in Taos. The thing is, there’s not much federal or foundation support for programs here, so it takes dedicated volunteers and generous local donors to make things happen. If you can join in on that end you may find things open for you in the network. It’s all kind of home grown, but with so many fine writers around, we’re way ahead of most other communities our size. Good luck and hang in there.

By: Deirdra Baldwin

Deirdra Baldwin — Wed, 25 May 2011 19:59:36 +0000

When I lived in Washington DC, we had a strong literary community, supported by the Arts Council, The Folger Shakespeare Library, and Library of Congress. When I moved to LA, the idea of community took a big powder. Now in Taos, I long for free events and a sense of community, which I don’t really feel. Everything seems to be pay ten dollars and go home. Boo-hoo! Have just finished a novel ms and I need a network. Somehow the Southside Gym doesn’t cut it, except of course for the muscle. Deirdra Baldwin

By: Summer Wood

Summer Wood — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 15:42:54 +0000

Thanks, Tom and Alan! @Tom: I’m so glad it’s working for you. The internet offers an amazing way to connect; it’s been great to meet people with shared interests thru this blog whom I might never have the chance to meet in person. And @Alan: thanks for your great work with SOMOS. It’s a terrific boon to writers in the area to have so strong a nexus of community. My hat is off to you and everybody who contributes to keeping the organization strong and responsive.

By: Alan Macrae

Alan Macrae — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 14:06:32 +0000

Summer, this is a great way to start the conversation. I am so glad you went to the conference and are willing to share it with us. I will be bring your words and ideas to the rest of the SOMOS board with enthusiasm and we will start implementing them.
I found that being a part of SOMOS fulfilled the community aspect of writing. I learned how other writers think and work. Attending readings and workshops has provided me with insight, inspiration and publication.
Thanks, Summer. I look forward to getting together and furthering the work. Alan

By: Tom Claffey

Tom Claffey — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 16:19:29 +0000

Summer, I’ve never really thought about belonging to a structured literary community. My “community” is your website, which I visit daily, and a couple of others – in addition to staying in touch with other writers. I LOVE this website. It is substantive, energizing and fun! I hear your voice in everything you write. Tom