St. John's News
Renowned Author Joyce Carol Oates Visits St. John's
April 07, 2008
On Saturday, April 5, more than 40 members of the St. John’s
community including alumni, faculty and students gathered on the
Queens campus to hear and learn from award-winning author Joyce
Carol Oates in the second lecture of this year’s 4th Semi-Annual
St. John's College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Speaker
Series. Oates, noted as “one of the greatest writers of our
time” by her peers, was on campus to discuss the creative process
and inspiration behind several of her works.
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During her presentation, Oates shared excerpts from several of
her published works, including “Kite Poem” and Blonde,
captivating the audience with her animated style of reading.
With each excerpt, she gave attendees insights and explained the
motivation for each piece. Oates was also candid about her
research style, telling audience members that she interviewed boxer
Mike Tyson multiple times while writing about the sport.
Alumni who attended were pleased with this rare opportunity to
glean insight into the skills and career of a world-renowned
author. “She was so understandable and her speaking was
beautiful,” commented Duelcie Demontagnac ’81SVC. “I would
compare her to Hemingway.”
“We can learn so much from an amazing author like Joyce
Carol Oates,” stated Denise Duffy ’04TCB, ’06MBA, Assistant
Director, Alumni Relations. “Her lecture was very engaging
and it was wonderful to have the opportunity to hear her read her
own work.”
Students also took advantage of the seminar to learn about the
author herself, in addition to her career. “I never read any
of her work, but after this lecture I want to start reading her
work,” shared Katrina Curato ’10SJC.
Oates took questions from the audience and was available to sign
books at the conclusion of the seminar.