Dunn applies to Graduate School

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1967

A letter written by Dunn asking for a letter of recommendation for graduate school.

[Hofstra Special Collections: Stephen Dunn Collection Box 5]

Below is the transcribed version of this letter:

 

Dear Mr. Offit;

 

I’m hoping you remember me. Over a year ago I took your Fiction Writing course at the New School for two semesters. My writing seemed to interest you, but of course these things are difficult to gauge. If it did, and you remember me, I would appreciate if you would give me a recommendation to Graduate School.

The decision to go to Graduate School to obtain a Creative Writing Masters degree is a late one for me. I‘m 28. Naturally, therefore, it is fairly well thought out and reflects a certain seriousness on my part. My wife and I have spent the past year living in Spain where I wrote poetry (mostly) as well as fiction. Recently, I’ve had two poems purchased by the Atlantic Monthly. 

My ultimate aim is to teach. So far I’ve had a favorable interview at Brown and am in the process of filling out xx  applications for Buffalo and Rochester as well. If you were to recommend me there is a two page form which you’d have to fill out. This I would send you. If you choose not to recommend me, of course I will understand. To simplify your reply please indicate your answer below. Thank you.

                                                                                                   Sincerely,

                                                                                                   Stephen Dunn

 

Remember Steve Dunn?

Of course. Elegant stylist.

Probably more poet! Than

novelist, My mind’s on

S D to be an excellent teacher,

two—respond promptly

                                    November 1967

note: Brave letter. This “kid” could go

           all the way.

 

 

FanMail[UNI_1999].jpg

1999

A fan mail letter sent to Dunn from a member of the English department at St. Edwards University.

[Hofstra Special Collections:Stephen Dunn Collection Box 7 Folder 9]

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1999

A fan mail letter sent to Dunn from a class.

[Hofstra Special Collections: Stephen Dunn Collection Box 7 Folder 9]

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1999

A fan mail letter sent to Dunn from a class. (continued)

[Hofstra Special Collections: Stephen Dunn Collection Box 7 Folder 9]

Dreams Come True: From student to teacher

 

These two photos are from students and teachers who appreciate Dunn's work and want a better understanding of the meaning behind his words. Both written in 1999, one of the letters, written by George, a member of the English Department at the St. Edwards Unversity, mentions how much he appreciated Dunn's workshop and time at the school. He also praised Dunn's teaching skills and how kindly Dunn handled individual poems from students.

 

The other letter focused on students from a World Literature and Philosophy class who wished to have a better understanding of Dunn's "Allegory". They praise his work and attempt to decipher his lines. As a not only a literature class but also a philosophy class, this letter reflects that Dunn has the ability to reach cross-platform and intrigue all types of minds.

 

 

A fan reading Dunn's poem a "Poem For People That Are Understandably Too Busy To Read Poetry".

Dunn applies to Graduate School