C. Michael Curtis

C. Michael Curtis sent me several personalized rejections that meant the world to me and were filled with heartfelt encouragement. Rest in Appreciation, your words are on the land.

As a middle aged mother, with aspirations to be a writer - but not much experience, I applied and was accepted into one of Michael's stimulating writing courses, held in their barn. Surrounded by published authors, and grad students I was terrified to open my mouth. Michael was gentle and kind with me, encouraging me to believe in myself, that I had a story worth telling and worth listening to. I have saved the note he wrote to me, these many years later. Thank you Michael and Betsy for your encouragement. Michael was real, honest, funny and kind. My condolences to Betsy, a fabulous award winning writer herself, who also took me under her wing. Marcia Cook

The times shared with Michael in our life were brief but the memories of those times were of a man with a gentle sense of humor, a profound sense of the sacredness of life and a great zest for it. Rest In Peace Michael. June and Steve Quarfordt

Michael spoke at a Bennington Writing Seminars residency around 2005. His casual remarks and interaction with students showed that he tempered his role as guardian of the canon with respect for those who aspired to modify it. Betsy, my heart goes out to you. What a wonderful spirit.
All best,
Woody

Over 30 years ago, I attended two summer workshops in Boston that Mike led. He was unfailingly generous in his remarks about our stories. That trend continued as I submitted work to him for consideration in The Atlantic over the ensuing years. He was always kind and encouraging in his responses. I'm sorry that he is gone. I send my best wishes and condolences to the family.