Chapter 1: The Writing Journey

Establishing a daily writing habit is essential. Although many advised me to do so, I didn’t take it seriously until I reached my thirties.

Books possess the unique ability to mold and influence our lives. What elements contribute to their transformative power? To explore this, we are conducting interviews with individuals who can share personal stories about books that have significantly impacted their lives. In this series, I had the privilege of conversing with Jacqueline Vogtman.

Jacqueline Vogtman is the recipient of the 2021 Dzanc Short Story Collection Prize, and her forthcoming book, Girl Country, will be released by Dzanc Books in May 2023. She earned her MFA from Bowling Green State University, and her fiction has been featured in various esteemed journals including Hunger Mountain, Permafrost, and The Literary Review. Currently, she is an Associate Professor of English at Mercer County Community College in New Jersey, living in a tranquil town surrounded by nature, which she explores with her husband, daughter, and dog.

Thank you for joining us! Before diving deeper, could you share a bit about your background and upbringing?

I grew up in New Jersey, spending most of my life there with a few years away for graduate school. Coming from a large working-class family, I've cherished reading and writing since childhood. Initially, I focused on poetry but transitioned to fiction during my last undergraduate year, and I have been dedicated to it ever since.

Let's discuss your current endeavors and the path that led you to your present success. Can you share more about your work?

My short story collection, Girl Country, won the Dzanc Books Short Story Collection Prize. The journey of creating this book spanned about 15 years. While a few stories date back to my graduate studies, most were written more recently. I managed to complete the book by waking up before dawn to write, often with my daughter snuggling next to me as I crafted stories. At present, I am in the early stages of developing a novel centered around a working-class American family across different historical periods.

As a recognized figure, what three character traits do you believe contributed most to your achievements? Could you provide examples for each?

Honestly, I don’t see myself as a leader; I’m just a teacher and mother striving to carve out time for writing. However, if I were to highlight three traits that facilitated my book's publication, they would be: first, the discipline to write early in the morning, which became easier during the pandemic as I worked from home. Second, after I stopped drinking, I found clarity that positively influenced every aspect of my life, including my writing. Finally, meditation has been crucial for my mental well-being, enabling me to create in a conducive mental environment.

What drives your work? Can you share a related story?

Like many artists, articulating the "why" behind my art is challenging. It feels intrinsic, almost like breathing. Inspiration is elusive. For me, writing serves multiple purposes: it’s a way of seeking meaning, a heartfelt exploration, a reach for empathy, and an act of love through paying attention.

None of us reach our goals alone. Is there someone you’re particularly thankful to for their support?

Absolutely! I owe so much to my parents, family, and teachers.

Now, let's focus on the main topic of our interview. As an author, I deeply believe in the life-altering potential of books. Can you tell us about "The Book That Changed Your Life" and how it influenced you?

Many books have significantly shaped my life, but the most pivotal for my writing and the publication of my book is Anthony Doerr's The Shell Collector. Until then, I primarily considered myself a poet. This collection opened my eyes to the possibilities of contemporary fiction, revealing the depth of character exploration and the beauty of the natural world through lyrical writing. It inspired me to write stories of my own.

What events led you to take action based on the inspiration from that book?

Motivated by Doerr's stories and other authors like Aimee Bender, I began writing fiction during my final undergraduate year. After graduation, I worked as a proofreader while applying to graduate schools, needing to choose between poetry and fiction. Thanks to Doerr’s book, I applied for fiction at Bowling Green State University, where I eventually earned my MFA, surrounded by incredible mentors and peers who influenced my development as a writer. Without that experience, my book might never have been written.

Can you explain why you believe books have the capacity to spark movements and true change?

Books foster empathy, enabling us to perceive the world as it is and envision what it could be.

A book encompasses many elements: writing style, narrative perspective, subject matter, and design. In your view, what are the essential components required to create a life-changing book?

For me, the most crucial element is interiority—the ability to delve into a character's psyche and convey that experience to the reader.

What are your "Five Things I Wish Someone Told Me Before I Started My Career," and why?

1. Establish a daily writing habit. Although I received this advice many times, I only embraced it in my thirties.
2. It's okay not to write at times. After my daughter was born, I struggled with balancing motherhood and my work, leading to a writing hiatus. I now understand that those moments were vital for my personal growth.
3. Social media is significant. While I still wrestle with promoting myself, it can be beneficial and even enjoyable.
4. Be a good literary citizen. Many advised me on this, but I initially struggled to engage. However, sharing others' work and participating in the community has been rewarding.
5. Embrace blending genres. Initially apprehensive about mixing literary and genre writing, I've learned from amazing writers that this approach can yield the most impactful work.

The world needs progress in numerous areas. What movement do you hope to see initiated next, and why is it crucial?

This is a challenging question! So much requires attention. In line with our conversation, I believe promoting literacy for children of all genders and backgrounds globally is vital for progress. Reading cultivates understanding, empathy, and critical thinking, helping us address the world's challenges.

How can readers keep up with your work online?

You can visit my website at jacquelinevogtman.com and find me on Instagram @jacquelinevogtman.

Thank you for sharing your insights with us. Your experiences will undoubtedly resonate with many and inspire countless others. We look forward to your future successes!