When I was at a university in the late 80's, we invited a number of writers to speak, At the time, as I recall, for one reading Sharon Olds wanted $3,000, plus expenses (and she stipulated train travel and type of hotel, rental car etc.)? Of course, at the time, the total tab would have run close to 5K and our poor English Dept. didn't have that kind of cash.? But, Edward Albee was willing to read as a favor since he was in town rehearsing Who's Afraid of VW.? He even agreed to a meet and greet afterwards . . .we were very grateful for his time.
-----Original Message-----
From: Kenneth Wolman <[log in to unmask]>
To: [log in to unmask]
Sent: Mon, 21 Apr 2008 4:39 pm
Subject: Re: [CRWROPPS-B] poet-in-residence: U of Central Oklahoma
Barry Alpert wrote:?
> Are there any positive tales of adjunct professing? Does any institution pay $10000, $15000, even > $20000 per course??
> ?
Yes. I had a 19-year-old female student at Brookdale who was a talented writer and also quite beautiful (I always wanted to meet Emilia Lanier) hitting on me via mash notes to my computer based on having read my poetry. She said we were "two of a kind" and referred to me as "Ken." I did not respond but I was quite flattered and far more wary than flattered. 19 and 59 are not easily divisible fractions.?
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> I would say that I've been shocked by rumors of how much writers (even of the very vanguard > variety) have been getting paid for readings, seminar/readings, appearances at > conferences/symposiums, one semester visits, whole year forays, and so on. That is, much more > than I imagined, especially if an outside foundation is involved as well as a beanery.?
> ?
Another Binghamton tale. I was an officer in the English Graduate Organization (EGO, duh) and in 1970 we invited John Barth to read. Barth wanted air fare, lodging, and $1000. I didn't get to write the letter politely refusing.?
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> As for the University of Central Oklahoma, I doubt I could survive a semester living in Edmond. Do a > bit of research and you'll encounter the claim (without irony) that their notable alumni include > "Brownie" [W)ORST's fema-figurehead] and THE BIG SHOW (a rather amusing pro wrestler / "bad" > performance artist).?
> ?
Thanks okay, I think you told me enough....?
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Ken?
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-- Ken Wolman http://bestiaire.typepad.com?
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"Stare. It is the way to educate your eye, and more. Stare, pry, listen, eavesdrop. Die knowing something. You are not here long." -- Walker Evans?
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