Professors, staff and students wanted to learn about literary submissions in a cozy, quirky setting.

Submitting work well is one of the most challenging aspects of publishing. More than just "sending stuff off," it is the fine art of matching specific literary work to the tastes and standards of various publishers and/or agents. Learning to craft query letters, model submissions after successful predecessors, and add that extra creative something that makes submissions stand out in a big pile is a lifelong process even for well-published authors.

Anyone who wishes to learn more about this is welcomed to spend some time -- from as little as one or two hours per month to as often as you wish -- working with Carole to submit literary work. This will involve writing query letters, creating selective agent and editor lists, indexing them intelligently according to past work published and stated interests, making contact with them by e-mail and occasional snail mail, and crafting strategies for the next step.

Please contact Carole with your personal interests in these processes, and your expected availability. All are welcome: professors, students, staff... this has the potential to be a community effort of monumental importance.

The Artist's Way, ideas and suggestions

Julia Cameron, a graduate of Georgetown's English department, is the author of the phenomenally successful international bestseller The Artist's Way, now in a 10th anniversary edition. John Glavin has long incorporated the book with his students in the Carroll Forum and as part of the preparation for fellowship candidates; it is an enduring classic for guiding artists of all types to productive glory. Separately, I have led many successful 12-week discussion circles for The Artist's Way through my private literary consulting efforts.

Now the two threads come together as circles begin to form at Georgetown to read and discuss the book in 12-week cycles. You can start anytime in the cycle, as circle members will each be in their own place with the book. We'll come together every other week to talk about the book, share ideas and encouragement, and plan for the future.

The first circle is for faculty and AAP staff. It will meet every other Monday at the townhouse (address to the right) from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. beginning September 18. A second circle is a strong possibility if the first one proves popular, as we will limit members to 10. Please contact me directly if you would like to participate.