Clare Rossini - Teachers Make a Difference - Jane Cooper & Don Justice

The speaker reflects on their upbringing in a working-class neighborhood, where nature played a significant role in their development. They discuss the influence of two key mentors from the University of Iowa Writers Workshop: Jane Cooper, who encouraged them to find their voice and live fully, and Donald Justice, who emphasized the importance of meaning and craft in poetry. These experiences and lessons have shaped the speaker's approach to writing and life.

What did the speaker learn from their time spent in nature during their youth?

• The importance of being rooted and appreciating natural elements

• The art of climbing trees

• The history of St. Paul, MN

• How to cultivate a successful garden

How did the speaker's parents influence their appreciation for language and books?

• By writing their own novels

• By instilling a deep appreciation for beauty

• By working in a library

• By reading bedtime stories every night

What advice did Jane Cooper give to the speaker?

• To always plan for the future

• To live fully and not be hindered by inconsequential matters

• To focus solely on technical skills

• To write only when inspired

What did Donald Justice emphasize as crucial for poets?

• The ability to write quickly

• The importance of meaning in poetry

• The need for constant publication

• The use of complex vocabulary

How did Donald Justice's approach to poetry influence the speaker?

• By encouraging them to write more books

• By teaching them to separate technique from meaning

• By serving as a model of perfectionism and ambition

• By focusing on the commercial success of poetry