 Standing out in an array of Harlem's talent is up-and-coming novelist Dana Crum. A resident of Harlem, the multitalented Mr. Crum tackles poetry, journalism, and fiction with ease. "I'm a proofreader to pay the bills," says Mr. Crum in his brownstone apartment. "The hours are flexible and I can stay home and write."
Growing up with a single mother in cities like Birmingham and Washington, DC, he loved to read. But as a child, his sites were set on becoming an aerospace engineer. Over time those dreams began to fade and as he moved on to the prestigious Princeton, he did not know what he wanted to do.
He dabbled around in many potential majors, but one thing remained the same his love for language. "I went to college to move up economically," he say. This very mentality could have put Mr. Crum in the position in which so many artists eventually get trapped. "I wanted to become an investment banker and write on the side," he says. As dangerous as that sounds, it made sense to him at the time. It wasn't until one of his professors at Princeton told him that he was unrealistic in his thinking that Mr. Crum realized the mistake he would have made.
 Mr. Crum attended Virginia Commonwealth University, where he graduated with a MFA (Masters in Fine Arts). It was at VCU where the writer's mantra "write what you know" became increasingly important. Mr. Crum's eloquent style took notice at VCU, where he received many awards and recognition from his classmates. He also stomached criticism, realizing what a crucial role it took in developing his skills.
Mr. Crum attributes much of his incredible ability to manipulate language to his silent teachers. He noted Joyce, Ellison, Wright, Morrison and Fitzgerald as some of the many writers that influenced him technically and creatively.
Still young at the game, Mr. Crum has built an impressive resume as a freelance writer. Since getting his first big break in the urban magazine The Source, Crum has successfully made a name for himself in both commercial and underground syndication.
When asked what writer he would like to be compared to at his death, Mr. Crum responded with Shakespeare. "I want my writing to be universal," he says. "I want everyone who reads my books to relate in some way."
Mr, Crum's advice to all aspiring writers, "learn to deal with rejection and above all persevere!" Look out for Dana Crum, the future Shakespeare of the streets: his words will move you.
 |
Subscribe to this comment's feed