Input, Readings

These readings are meant to be fun and informative, entryways for you to think about your own literary/artistic family tree. Note what interests you but don't feel you need to delve into a deep analysis of any of them.

The first two readings are lengthier essays. They are merely examples of two very different writers writing incredibly well about their influences. In no way do I mean these to be the only sorts of influences or traditions in which you might locate your own work.

The last three readings are quick compendiums--numerous writers writing briefly about books or writers that were important to them. I never fail to be surprised when I read things like this and often end up thinking, "Wow! I would never have guessed that was their favorite writer!"

John Edgar Wideman, The Black Writer & the Magic of the Word Download The Black Writer & the Magic of the Word

Kathryn Davis, Why I Don't Like Reading Fairy Tales Download Why I Don't Like Reading Fairy Tales

The Hum Inside the Skull—a Symposium Links to an external site.

The Hum Inside the Skull, Revisited Links to an external site.

Noor Qasim, The Books that Made Me: 8 Writers on their Literary Inspirations Links to an external site.