Interesting post, Terry, especially since I was a teacher before taking up writing seriously. I think teaching senior high school English and learning how best to help my students achieve THEIR goals with their writing prepared me for my writing career to some extent. It certainly didn't hurt. It's a bit like The Underpainter (Jane Urquhart) where all the layers go on first before the final layers, isn't it? I do think that a large part of the value of writers teaching and speaking about their field helps the world see the value of the arts. Keep sharing your extraordinary writing, speaking and teaching gifts!
You are full of surprises Terry and a tip of the hat to you for giving back to the community through teaching. I’m sure you are familiar with the Canadian Authors Association (full disclosure, I am on the Board of Directors, Treasurer) – perhaps you are even a member. We put on a series of webinars for members and others aspiring to be writers and authors. Zoom has actually extended our reach considerably but as you say, it has its limitations. Would you consider doing a workshop on humour for us? Please let me know and I’ll put you in touch with our Administrative Director.
I taught screenwriting for 18 years when I wasn’t working on a show or for a production company or broadcaster and without a doubt, not only was I inspired by the creativity of my students, having to break down story elements from plot and character arcs to turning points and cliffhanger endings made me a better writer.
Can't give enough praise to the authors I was exposed to in various college & Uni classes over the years. Each added a new dimention to my thought process and all provided the enthusiasm for their craft that spurred my desire to also write. I would have loved to be in your humor workshop...what a treat!!!
I'm sure you're a fantastic teacher, Terry. Anyone who has heard you speak (I'm thinking of a Books & Beer in Elora) knows that you're great at connecting with your audience - something that can be overlooked when authors (or specialists of any kind) turn to teaching. Like other commenters here, I was a teacher too (college-level writing skills and business writing) and it definitely helped with my creative writing (and presenting). Fun Fact: I was a writer-in-residence at Hillfield-Strathallen College too! In the Middle School, twice!
Interesting post, Terry, especially since I was a teacher before taking up writing seriously. I think teaching senior high school English and learning how best to help my students achieve THEIR goals with their writing prepared me for my writing career to some extent. It certainly didn't hurt. It's a bit like The Underpainter (Jane Urquhart) where all the layers go on first before the final layers, isn't it? I do think that a large part of the value of writers teaching and speaking about their field helps the world see the value of the arts. Keep sharing your extraordinary writing, speaking and teaching gifts!
Good point, Elaine. Thank you.
You are full of surprises Terry and a tip of the hat to you for giving back to the community through teaching. I’m sure you are familiar with the Canadian Authors Association (full disclosure, I am on the Board of Directors, Treasurer) – perhaps you are even a member. We put on a series of webinars for members and others aspiring to be writers and authors. Zoom has actually extended our reach considerably but as you say, it has its limitations. Would you consider doing a workshop on humour for us? Please let me know and I’ll put you in touch with our Administrative Director.
https://canadianauthors.org/national/
Thanks Doug. Yes, I’m a member of the CAA (as far as I know) and would be pleased give a session sometime.
I've still kept all of my written work from the Writing Humour class - it was great fun! Someday I may still write that novel!
Thanks Andrea. Never too late to start your novel.
I taught screenwriting for 18 years when I wasn’t working on a show or for a production company or broadcaster and without a doubt, not only was I inspired by the creativity of my students, having to break down story elements from plot and character arcs to turning points and cliffhanger endings made me a better writer.
Exactly!
Can't give enough praise to the authors I was exposed to in various college & Uni classes over the years. Each added a new dimention to my thought process and all provided the enthusiasm for their craft that spurred my desire to also write. I would have loved to be in your humor workshop...what a treat!!!
I took this course in 2015 and it was a great benefit to me. You are truly inspiring.
I'm sure you're a fantastic teacher, Terry. Anyone who has heard you speak (I'm thinking of a Books & Beer in Elora) knows that you're great at connecting with your audience - something that can be overlooked when authors (or specialists of any kind) turn to teaching. Like other commenters here, I was a teacher too (college-level writing skills and business writing) and it definitely helped with my creative writing (and presenting). Fun Fact: I was a writer-in-residence at Hillfield-Strathallen College too! In the Middle School, twice!