You Must Revise Your Life

Presented on July 25, 1986

William E. Stafford, poet, author & lecturer

"Lucrative pre-publication contracts for formula books are a new measure of worth. For many writers, the mark of success is writing what the public wants. Yet Dostoevsky did not consult his market analyst before writing some of the greatest novels of all time. Oregon's poet laureate and internationally known author and lecturer appears before the Club to present a markedly different perspective on writing ""success."" Stafford believes that the essence of writing is expression of self through language. To truly succeed at this art form, an individual must not be afraid to express individuality. He has travelled throughout the country carrying this message to students and others, encouraging them to develop confidence in their perceptions of the world. Without that confidence, the impulse and motivation for distinctive expression will not come.
Stafford has lectured throughout the world and served as poetry consultant for the Library of Congress. His poetry and prose have been published extensively, and Club members attending this Friday's program will be treated to both. Stafford will give us a preview of his forthcoming book You Must Revise Your Life, which expands on his views of the process of writing and how one can develop the self-acceptance that leads to self-expression. He will also weave into his presentation selections from his own poetry. "

Видео You Must Revise Your Life канала City Club of Portland