Richard Deming - Teachers Make a Difference - Robert Creeley

The speaker reflects on their experience with poet Robert Creeley during their PhD at the University of Buffalo. Creeley, who was on the speaker's oral exam committee, challenged them to think authentically and break away from academic conventions. Through intense weekly discussions, Creeley pushed the speaker to answer questions truthfully, particularly during an exam on Shakespeare's 'The Tempest.' This experience profoundly impacted the speaker's approach to teaching, emphasizing the importance of genuine thought and expression over habitual academic discourse.

What was the significance of Robert Creeley in the author's academic journey?

Describe the nature of the weekly meetings between the author and Robert Creeley.

How did the author's experience during the oral exam challenge their academic discourse?

What approach did Robert Creeley take during the oral exam that impacted the author?

In what ways does the author suggest we can break through habitual thinking and speaking?