Making Literature

A septet of Creative Writing majors began their spring break by attending Taylor University's "Making Literature Conference," with five students being selected to present their work. 

Participants included Grace Ehlert, Tyler Howell, Nick Straits, Ori Barrett, Ellie Zumbach, Brett Cortelletti, and Hannah Gears; led by Professor of English Cherie Parsons. Brady Miller also had two pieces submitted, but was not able to attend the conference.

"I always love the Taylor conference," said Zumbach, who presented a collection of poetry as well as a creative nonfiction essay. "My favorite part is being around so many other creatives that are serious about their art and so respectful and supportive of others. Making art (especially writing) is sometimes a very solitary and lonely activity, but conferences like this remind us that we are not alone."

Senior Brett Cortelletti submitted the portfolio from his graduate school application - which happened to earn him a fully-funded assistantship for the prestigious Master of Fine Arts program at Florida State University. 

"The collection was the ten poems that I've worked the hardest on and am most proud of. In these poems, I was aiming for a sense of endearment which was intentionally undercut by a dry sarcastic voice," said Cortelletti. "My goal is to be a teacher at any level. When I was in high school, I was blessed with teachers who inspired a love for reading in me. Similarly, in college, I was blessed with professors who turned my love for reading into a love for writing. I hope to always continue writing. I have seen many great writers flourish while teaching; I think that this is because seeing creativity in students nurtures our own creativity. I hope to one day establish a classroom where teachers and students both benefit from sharing ideas with one another. I am especially looking forward to having the opportunity to continue teaching while earning my master's degree."