You Must Revise Your Life (Poets On Poetry)

A writer is not so much someone who has something to say as s/he is someone who has found a process that will bring about new things s/he would not have thought of if s/he had not started to say them. This book is more than convincing of that assertion by William Stafford. I bought this as part two of the trilogy of books on the writing life; it is a must to have as part of the collection. The title alone is reason to apply this book to your literary life and the rest of your life as well.

Great advice, new perspectives for me. Who doesn't need to revise their life? Moment by moment.

Great book.

This book is a treasure chest of insight for teachers and writers.

William Stafford's advice for writing is so easy-going that one could miss its profundity. Reading what he has to say inspires me to start writing. Originally from Kansas, Stafford spent most of his life writing and teaching. He was a pacifist and a CO during World War II and he never lost his focus on being peaceful. HIs advice on writing is peaceful, as well.

I found this book in the library and enjoyed it so much I wanted my own copy. William Stafford has an unique and engaging way of writing. This is the best book I have read on how to write. Stafford does talk about more than just poetry, he also discusses writing in general.

An interesting book by an interesting man. Basically, it’s how he wrote and taught. If you are new to the writing life, or contemplating it, I recommend reading this book. There are some insights you might find useful. The ones that strike a chord in your psyche, take and own. The others—leave in the book.There was, as one reviewer noted, a smugness to the book that I think was neither needed nor intended. How his way of teaching was so much better than other ways. At least, I hope it wasn’t intended. Although I am not a teacher, I have participated in many workshops, and I found the ones that tempered criticism with a little praise, were the most helpful for me. I don’t think I would have enjoyed a class where neither was given. But, then, again…

Stafford's book about the art of writing poetry includes several wonderful poems, including yellow car,about the hope we find in life.Definitely worth purchasing for anyone interested in writing poetry or understanding a poet.