What I’ve Been Doing for the Past 15 Weeks
17 Dec
I normally don’t write about my writing. I mention school and class – when I’m going, why I’m not posting dinner – that sort of thing. But I don’t really talk about what it is that I do in school.
If you’re a new reader – I’m getting my Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing and Publishing and graduating in May 2010. This semester, I took a class called Advanced Seminar. It is the class before the last class of my MFA life. It’s one last shot at getting some serious writing down for our 75-page books (that we self publish – either through a printer or through handmade bookbinding – the writing inside the book gets to decide!).
This semester, I wrote 40 pages. However, what’s more important than the page count is what I finally wrote down.
I am working on a collection of fiction with a large cast of characters set in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The stories vary in length, but the characters are the same. Some stories are a paragraph long. Others are 10 pages long.
The set of characters has become so intense that I decided to include a chart in the beginning of my book. There are seven people, which has been no easy feat.
Many people have asked if this is based off my real life, and I will say that yes, it is inspired by the people I’ve met. But the characters and scenes are amalgamations of various things and don’t represent anyone who exists presently.
These are some of the titles of flash fiction {n. writing that is less than 1,000 words} I’m including in the book. I’ll let your mind ponder over these.
[Please don’t steal my titles]
The first longer story to appear is about a wedding. It sets up the main character and her important relationships.
Then there are more short-shorts mixed in.
Then another longer story.
And it kind of goes back and forth just like that: a section of flash fiction, followed by a more traditional short story and then back to flash fiction. I like this method because it incorporates the two writing styles I most enjoy. While I prefer flash fiction, I understand the need to construct a traditional short story narrative.
So.
That’s what I’ve been doing all semester long.
And you know what? I’m thinking about writing all through my winter break – straight up until the end of January and constructing my entire book around these stories.
So.
I thought you might like seeing what I’ve been doing for the past 15 weeks.
Also: I have to make 25 of these and sell them in May. So if you’re just dying to get your hands on a copy, you might have an opportunity.
[I have not been thinking about food at all today. Hope you understand.]
I understand as to why you have not been thinking of food at all today… and can comprehend as to how that’s even possible
you are amazing Rose! Your stories sound incredible and I just know that the finished copy is going to be just great. If you’re selling them in May hopefully I can find a friend, boyfriend, or family member to purchase it as my birthday gift! Best of luck with completing it m’dear!
I would buy one!! That’s so awesome! Congrats!
i’m just going to tell you now that i’m buying your book. save a copy for me?
i love love love reading about your creative process and the way you put your work together. and i love that you consider the physical form of the book as much as the words themselves. that is very “rose” to me.
also, i’m glad that you have your art to focus on today. i think it can be the best therapy.
That is amazing! The format of your story sounds so interesting.
I think that the book writing process is intriguing. I’d love to hear more!
It is so inspiring to see your passionate energy put towards writing. It’s a saving grace, is it not?
Hope you have a fabulous evening
becxo
Umm, I would love to buy one of your books. Something to look forward to in May
I love this post! Obviously, I would really like to be your first buyer
It truly makes me so happy to hear that you plan on writing through winter break. I see big things in your future and a lot of success. Kudos, my friend!
That is not a small task! Good luck and congratulations!
I would 100% LOVE to buy your book!! Please put me on the list.
I honestly envy your creativity and writing ability. You.Are.Amazing.
PS Still singing Long December… think I might need to download it.
♥Hugs♥
I would 100% read your book Rose! That’s so awesome. You are living my dream, girl! One day I will get into an MFA program.
so cool!! makes me wish i was more of a writer.
i took a creative writing class in high school that was a lot of fun and our final project was to write and illustrate and create a children’s book. best project ever.
Wow-that’s so awesome Rose!
I want to buy one. For reals. So cool.
I definitely want one… especially since I have probably been present or heard of many of the stories included… hell I might even be part of a character (in fact I kind of assume I am given the closeness of our relationship and will not be offended if I am included as my former, crazier, self)… maybe we can help you create an ending through the 2010 party! Did you write anything about when you and Cat came to visit? I think that would make a great story…
But there are probably some better one from back in the crazier days… I can think or one or two myself 
You are so cool dear Rose!
I would love to read your stories!!
As a native Pittsburgher who now calls D.C. home, it’ll be fun to read about someone else’s impressions of my hometown. Look forward to it.