2020 Reid Writers of Color Series featuring Tommy Orange

On Wednesday, April 29th, the English Department hosted a Picnic with Tommy Orange, our 2020 Reid Writer of Color. Orange is the author of the New York Times bestselling novel There There. Over 200 students and faculty members registered to attend this virtual picnic.

At the master class preceding the picnic, Orange reassured students that while inspired work is rare and the revision process is grueling, there are tools to assist in the endeavor. He shared advice such as going for a run or having a text-to-speech app read your work back to you. Orange then led students in a writing exercise to explore how point of view can influence the tone and immediacy of a story.

That evening, our home picnic began with a lively discussion in the chatroom, where students, faculty, and alumni exchanged introductions and shared what they had brought to the picnic. (Below, see a slideshow of some of the scrumptious picnic spreads and cozy views.)

Once Orange took the screen, he began by discussing his journey as a writer. As audience members volunteered their questions, Orange proceeded to share more about the tools of his revision process, how we can support native communities by raising awareness, the stranger-than-fiction origin of There There’s spider legs, and much more. One of the highlights of the event was when he dropped a bombshell regarding his upcoming sequel, to the audience’s surprise and delight. He also shared practical tips for writers looking to improve their work.

“Send parts of what you’re writing to people you fear and respect,” he said. “Then immediately go back and reread what you just sent.”

Finally, Tommy Orange left the audience with words of encouragement in the form of a handwritten letter addressed to Fordham students, which can be read here.

The event closed with a visualization of picnicking together in Central Park.

Jessica Cozzi, FCRH ’20, enjoyed the spirited discussion and sense of community the event cultivated.

“It was such a fun event to attend, which was something I was originally worried about since it was being done remotely,” said Cozzi. “But it was, without a doubt, my favorite English event of all my years at Fordham. Being able to enjoy some delicious snacks while discussing writing with such a great group of people really added up to such an incredible experience.”

Since 2008, the Reid Family Writers of Color Reading Series has brought some of the most celebrated writers of color to Fordham. Events have included readings, master classes and panel discussions. The English Department at Fordham is deeply grateful to the Reid Family for their continuing generosity.