As a working writer,
I come to teaching with several assumptions.

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The first is that writing isn't the mysterious process it's often made out to be. Rather, it's hard work that involves looking at the world closely, listening to yourself, and learning to make critical choices that support your creative intentions. I also believe that revision is integral to the process of writing, and that it's a learned skill that — like any other — requires practice and discipline. Writing is a lot like gardening: to get to the root of the matter, you have to be willing to roll up your sleeves, get your hands dirty, and dig in.

My goal as a teacher is to help you develop greater self-awareness: the ability to recognize and capitalize on what makes your work unique, strong, and valuable, and to help you communicate your ideas more effectively. I'm available on an individual basis for private consultation, small group workshops, and manuscript review. From time to time, I also teach poetry, creative non-fiction, and copywriting through Stanford University's Continuing Studies Program.

If you're looking for a new perspective on your work, or would like to receive thoughtful, practical, and thorough feedback, drop me a line.