It’s true. I’ve been given two weeks at the Martha’s Vineyard Writers Residency. Until October 15, I will be living at the Point Way Inn in Edgartown, MA., working on my novel. I was here for two weeks in April as well. Writers: I suggest you apply to come here. I got more done in the first 36 hours than I had in the five months between visits. (Not exactly something to brag about personally, but nonetheless.)
So far, the weather in October is better than April. I’ve eaten truly scrumptious clam chowder at a place called The Boathouse, where the bartenders are pretty and patient. On my first night here, I stumbled into a fishing derby. Lots of fancy boats. I watched the local workers in waders gut some enormous striped bass. 39-point-something pounds was the day’s winner. I scrutinized their knives.
I am living with 6 other women—it’s not a girls-only place, just worked out that way these weeks, it seems. Each is more interesting than the next. Look them up here. Roberta and I spoke of Central Valley poets together. She was surprised that I knew of Larry Levis and David St. John (I loved his poem “The man in the yellow gloves”); I learned of both from my high school English teacher, Bob Jarnagin, the man I credit with making me a writer. And Phil Levine, of course. I said I have a signed copy of “The Simple Truth.” It was nice to know something about poetry, a genre about which my understanding is minimal. (despite an English degree; hm)
I have a little wicker desk that looks out onto a patio and garden that is tended with talent and care. Photo TK.