We Wanted to be Writers: Life, Love, and Literature at the Iowa Writers' Workshop

by Eric Olsen and Glenn Schaeffer

In the mid-seventies, Iowa was a fruitful place for writers. Talents like T C Boyle, Jane Smiley, Allan Gurganus, and Sandra Cisneros all honed their skills at the famous Writers’ Workshop. But they are not the only grads of the Workshop. . .

This compilation of reminiscences includes those of more obscure writers, as well as those of folks who have never made a living as writers, despite their education.

I thought this collection of memories was interesting, but it could have used some serious editing. Honestly, it could be 100 pages shorter than it is. I also did not care to read Cisneros’ constant bashing of the program. It made her seem as ungrateful as the other famous writer I’ve heard bash it. As an Iowa grad, I understand the reverence attached to the Workshop and was disappointed to read anything too negative about it. 

11/8/13