Welcome!

This is a creative writing and mixed media blog that we started with the intention of having a public forum to display our respective prowesses.


First, let us offer an explanation of our title. It comes from a quote: "'You're a gentleman,' they used to say to him. 'You shouldn't have gone murdering people with a hatchet; that's no occupation for a gentleman.'" (Crime And Punishment). In its ardor and its messiness, the creative process is quite comparable to murder by means of a hatchet. Neither are suitable occupations for a gentleman.


Good thing none of us fit that description.


This blog is structured around two points:


1. The Editors give out prompts once every three weeks. Contributors then do what they will with them: write, draw, photograph, etc. Then, two weeks later, the results are posted here for all the world to see. It is not required that contributors follow the prompts. Variations on, deviations from and neglecations of the prompts are certainly allowed. Sometimes, such things may even be encouraged.

What, you may ask, is the third week for? Allow us to quench your curiosity.

2. Being the hardworking creative-types that we are, one of our goals is to improve ourselves and our craft. In that spirit, contributors are expected to help one another. The most blatant manifestation of this principle is The Critique, that perennial friend and foe of the artiste. Contributors will be expected to offer their criticism of their fellow artists' work. There will be one week after the end of the writing period and before the giving of a new prompt reserved entirely for criticism. We will draft a guideline for criticism and post it here soon.

Welcome to No Occupation For A Gentleman. We hope you enjoy our work!

Sincerely,
The Editors