Compelled Quote by Joan Larkin
“After I started publishing poetry I got to teach creative writing. Eventually I was promoted and even got tenure. But then I felt compelled to drop everything and move. But I've been teaching for a long time. More than four decades.”
About This Quote
The speaker describes a career shift from poetry publishing to academia, noting tenure and a later urge to leave, reflecting on long‑term teaching commitment and personal change.
In simple terms: Poet became professor, later felt compelled to move.
Key Takeaway
Consider when to pursue new directions.
Themes
career
creative arts
academic life
Mood
contemplative
inspired
Type
reflective
career
When to use this quote
- university teaching
- career transitions
- personal fulfillment
Key Concepts
tenure
artistic identity
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives you to stay or leave a long‑term role?
- How can you balance creative passion with professional duties?
![“I've written a lot of other books and this book [Tears we cannot stop] was different. I couldn't just say what I wanted to say in the same style that I said it in those other books. I felt compelled to preach.” quote by Michael Eric Dyson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/f3e/michael-eric-dyson-1424_book_i-ve-written-a-lot-of-other-books-and-th_45441.jpg)
