The other day, I went to a writers' workshop hosted by an accomplished flash fiction author, and there were only eight people in attendance. I took my seat, looked around the room and saw the same seven people I see at every single other creative writing event I go to at my college. This class was absolutely free and open to the entire campus community, and there weren't even a dozen people there. I am lucky enough to be one of the people that helps organize events like these, since I am on the e-board for my college's creative writing club. There is no worse feeling than when you put a ton of time and effort into an event and no one bothers to show up. I'm not sure if my fellow e-board members and I need to publicize these gatherings a little better or if no one is interested in coming; but either way, something definitely needs to change.
I am surrounded by fellow student writers who are so talented and inspire me on a daily basis, but I really do wonder why I only see a handful at the numerous literary events held on our campus. There doesn't seem to be any sort of commitment to a writing community, which I'm hoping changes in the next few years. It's one thing to call yourself a writer and write for fun, but it's another to be a writer who is actively engaging with those who share your passion. Last year, my college hosted a slam poet who fills major theaters when she performs, but when she came to read here, there were 10 people in the audience. Having to apologize to her for the event's poor attendance was one of the most heart-breaking things I've ever had to do. I hope this never happens again.
There's this age-old saying that "if you want to be a better writer, you have to be an even better reader." And it's one of the truest statements I've ever heard: to become a brilliant writer, one needs to be reading brilliant writers. But shouldn't that be true for meeting and watching amazing writers? You can't read a book of poetry and ask it why it has so many metaphors, but you can go to a reading and ask the actual poet why she writes the way she does. Maybe even ask for some advice if you're a novice writer.
My way of thinking has completely changed after 20-minute Q&As with poets I've met over the years. I wouldn't be where I am now without their guidance. I question my college's commitment to the arts and my fellow students' desires to become writers. I'm sorry, but I am not confident in the community I'm surrounded by. I know this can change; all I'm asking is for my fellow literary enthusiasts to come to the next literary event on campus or take part in a meet and greet with a respected writer if you get the chance.
Creative writers, I feel the need to ask you: If we aren't taking ourselves seriously, then who will?
