Beginning January 2024, I am offering creative writing mentorships!
Mentorships are for those who want the motivation and accountability of turning in work on a regular basis but who do not desire or have room in their lives for assigned reading, homework, and workshop groups. The only person who will read your work is me. There are obvious pros and cons to having your work read by large groups of peers vs. having a single, experienced writer invest in your work over a longer period of time. I personally have flourished in the one-on-one mentorship model and want to extend that opportunity to others.
I have an MFA in poetry, experience teaching university creative writing classes, and I spent several years writing literature study guides, all of which have provided me with a strong foundation for close reading and thinking critically about craft. I also spent several years as the editor of an online literary journal. My own first book of poetry is forthcoming from Querencia Press (release date TBD). Most importantly, I strive to root my reading in observation, curiosity, and generosity, and to encourage vulnerability, playfulness, and exploration. I’m not someone you need to impress; I am someone who can provide you the opportunity to see your work from outside of yourself. I believe brave writing begins with supportive relationships, and that’s what I aim to offer!
To begin, I’ll ask you to share your goals, experience, and anything else you’d like me to know about you, your work, and what you are hoping to get out of a mentorship (for example: are you working on a specific project, or are you looking to generate new work?) The overall structure of the mentorship will be simple: you will email me pages once a month, and I will provide in-text comments and suggestions as well as an in-depth feedback letter within two weeks. My rate is $5 per page. The number of pages you turn in each month is up to you, though I will encourage you to set a goal and try to stick to it as much as possible.
If you are interested in embarking on a mentorship, please email me at mottram.darla@gmail.com using the subject CREATIVE WRITING MENTORSHIP.