There are not many things in this world that we can say have been constant over the past 38 years. The moon and stars, yes, and the magic of birds flying back from wherever they go this time of year. And Judy Goldman.
It is no small thing that the little writers workshop that began on the campus of Duke University in 1980-ish is still in existence. And it is downright remarkable that Georgann Eubanks is still leading it. We are so lucky. But one of the most beautiful things about it all is that the incomparable Judy Goldman has been a faithful participant for all these years. She wandered onto Duke campus first in 1984 as a new poet and novelist taking classes herself, later as a celebrated workshop instructor. Over the years, Judy has taught many different classes for many hundreds of writers—short fiction, poetry, essay, Beginning Your Novel, Finishing Your Novel, and something she called “Plagiarizing From Your Own Life.” Judy Goldman is what the young people call OG. And it is an understatement to say that she is popular. When workshop registration opens, Judy Goldman's classes are the first ones to fill. And it is not just because people have heard she can still say the alphabet backwards really fast.
I am relatively new to this scene—25 years. My only job at Table Rock has been to wander around Wildacres, keeping eyes and ears open in case anyone needs anything. Judy Goldman is famous for running a tight class. No going over the word limit or the time assigned. Keep the mouth noises to a minimum. I have heard in the canteen that Judy Goldman introduces some pretty brutal prompts for writing memoir: Write about what keeps you up at night. Write a letter of apology or anger. Just get ink on the paper. So it always surprises me that when I sneak past her classroom, all I hear is laughter and low giggles. Not sure what really happens in there, but it is clear the writers have everything they need.
—DONNA CAMPBELL
If we are lucky, we have a friend who makes our hearts swell and sets us laughing until our ribs ache like joy has busted them to pieces. By that measure, we are exceedingly lucky to call you a friend, sweet Judy.
—JOHN CLAUDE BEMIS
I don’t write memoir, so I have not taken Judy’s workshop. But I knew when I first went to Table Rock and met her, I didn’t need to sit at the table to learn from her. Her smile, her face, her presence are inspiring. Once I read her book, Losing My Sister, I began to tell writers, if you want to know how to write memoir, this book will be your teacher. I made it books, plural, with Together and now Child. Let me amend my advice: If you want to know how to live life, study Judy Goldman.
—NORA ESTHIMER
When lucky enough to have the chance to talk with Judy, she gives her full attention. When asked a question, even a dumb one, she never makes anyone feel awkward. When she doesn’t know how to answer she honestly says she has to think about it. We keep asking her questions just to hear her Southern drawl, her slow way of talking--as if she has all the time in the world. Judy speaks with wit and a subtle sense of humor. There is truth in her writing—we recognize ourselves. She looks back at her life critically, judging her own judgments and prejudices. She notices and remembers the details that make her writing so alive and true.
—PAM PELLEGRINO
To Judy
I hear your solo voice sailing through
seashells on this side of the shore.
Either or, thank you. I am learning to swim,
the way a blue tone between the letter and note
of your voice promises joy if I listen.
Whoever says the seabird no longer
sings to the silvering dunes,
yields to a stranded beach replaced
by mountains of beer bottles minus the brew.
Either or, thank you. I hold the pleasure
your words give light to the sun,
sand, sea, and sky in my hands.
—PHILLIP SHABAZZ
Judy’s Voice
Before podcasts, NPR guided us as we navigated a less-crowded Charlotte. So, I met Judy Goldman through my car radio. Her commentaries—calm and compelling—came through as if she were standing in our tiny kitchens. This voice could likely convince me to do anything.
Years later, I read a local writer’s new book. I imagined the writer would be inspiring to my fledgling writers’ workshop. Analog searches revealed a phone number. I dared myself to call, expecting no answer. Hello? It was the same voice from the radio. Stumbling with my pitch; her voice convinced me to keep going.
—TONY TALLENT
Judy is One of Those Rare People…
… who has a way of making
Tiny little things you do
Feel important.
As if each word or phrase
Or simply the effort to show up
Matters.
She is the sweetest of all of us
Isn’t she?
—CHRIS ARVIDSON
There I sat, with my high school education, at a table surrounded by nearly a dozen “real writers,” my mind churning in apprehension of my first writing workshop. Had it not been Judy Goldman teaching, it may well have been my last. Maya Angelou’s words about people never forgetting come to mind. Judy’s warm presence, her generosity, grace, and encouragement made me feel as though I belonged at that table. She knew what I had yet to realize and what a larger ego might not have acknowledged. I did belong. We and our stories all do. Judy, thank you.
—DEIRDRE TURNER
The writing community has an invaluable resource in Judy. She can pack more into a workshop than anyone I know. She is encouraging, knowledgeable, and downright funny! I feel so fortunate to have learned from her, and I am always encouraging people to read her excellent books.
—MAMIE POTTER
Judy! Congratulations! I guess. You will have plenty of time to write, now. I always loved your classes—and you—even though you did kick me out. You were—and always be—the greatest. Thank you for all your support and encouragement. Table Rock will never be the same. All the best.
—LUTHER KIRK
This is what I see when I see Judy Goldman: the tilt of her head in recognition, her bright smile;
what I hear when I hear Judy: her voice, a melody, full of bows and curtsies, crescendos, and rests; a voice I could listen to all day long
what I read when I read Judy: tender truth breaking through a hard-packed, well-traveled road
This is what she offers (and what I have taken): an open-hearted optimism and encouragement now taking the form of a blanket I have taken home pulling it up when I’m shivery from my own wintry wind.
—MARY ROCAP
To Judy - the famous but not intimidating author who dispenses wit and wisdom on the page and in workshops:
We share a birth year, long-time friends and wavy hair (yours has turned a lovely white while mine has stayed miraculously brown.) Even so, I could n e v e r slow talk the way you do (I love that you sounded like Mattie). You notice and remember every detail of your life and smile ALL the time and make every class an occasion and every reading memorable. It’s an honor to share a birth year with you.
—SUSAN LARSON
The strands are all there: to the memory nothing is really lost. ~One Writer’s Beginnings, Eudora Welty
Our story comes full circle, this family called Table Rock Writers. We have forged and formed a family that knows no beginning or end. Darnell Arnoult, Luke Kirk, and Greg Screws told me over and over I needed to come to the mountain, write, love, make memories, study with Judy Goldman. Rarely have I ever studied with such an extraordinary prepared, nurturing, skilled teacher of the heart and the word. In her safe place, memoirists created and shared. I conjure the image of Judy walking along with Abigail, shoulder to shoulder, laughter echoing.
—SUE WEAVER DUNLAP
The Incomparable Judy Goldman
I met Judy in a memoir class, of course. There were 12 of us, 10 women and 2 men, which is a ratio I favor. Having grown up in a rough and loving Appalachian matriarchal family, I thrive in groups of women.
None of us were exceptional; all of us were exceptional. Every voice was cherished, every person’s story a sacred journey. Under Judy’s watchful and empathetic eye we told deep secrets, dove into our tender selves, became a community. And engaged our writing life.
I will always love Judy for that.
—GARY PHILLIPS
My Teacher Judy Said
You need arrogance and insecurity to be a writer.
Most important: show up.
We need more dirt.
Go from beginning to end as fast as you can
so you don't have time to back out.
Go deep.
We need more dirt.
Don't let what you know crowd out the possibility
of discovering the unknown.
We need more dirt.
It's the small things that break your heart.
The normal human urge is to say it and move on
We need more dirt
It's easy to portray charm at the expense of honesty.
(Just don't tell your family about all that dirt
until you're finished digging.)
—LINDA VIGEN PHILLIPS
A most critical memory of Judy at writer’s week is how we became fast friends, most particularly on the screened porch of the house at Kanuga. Gifted poet, novelist, memoirist, teacher, Judy, you bring so many gifts to the table. And so many adjectives to mind: smart, funny, generous, kind, honest, steadfast, family and friend oriented.…I will miss you as a daily TR participant but so thankful you are still a life-long friend, Judy! And glad you’ll still make an appearance at TR, reminding us of all you contribute to our lives and our writing spirits. Love you!
—DARNELL ARNOULT
"Oh, I have so much to tell you -- and we only have foe-uh days," Judy Goldman said -- in her inimitable Southern voice—to our Table Rock memoir class. I’d taken a class from Judy before, but it was just one afternoon. I was thrilled to be with her (and listening to that sweet drawl) for an extended, but still too brief, time.
We learned about the importance of sensory details, learned that the memoirist must be harder on herself than she is on others she writes about, learned that "it's the little things that break your heart." That line—one of many I wrote down—speaks to the importance of being aware of small, poignant details. And then including them in your writing.
Judy made all her students feel like legitimate writers -- including a man in his late 60s who'd been shamed by a writing teacher decades before and hadn't written anything since. "Oh, but you ahhhhr a writah," Judy told him near the end of the week. Thanks to her, we all felt we were, too.
—PAGE LEGGETT
The Rare, the Wonderful
When I’ve recommended Judy’s classes, certain words have been shared. Wisdom, insight; deep, supportive; safe space, fun(!!). Those last two are a magical combination, and Judy is masterful at bringing them together. It’s that rare mix that invites deep dives into those legendary prompts. I found myself writing out of the part of my brainheart labeled never. write. about. this. ever. I was—and am—so grateful.
Oh my, we’ll miss Judy’s teaching!💔 But we’ll see our Judy on the mountain!❤️
P.S. This scholarship committee wrangler would like to pass along the idea of a Judy Goldman Scholarship!
—LAUREL FEREJOHN
I finally got to meet Judy when I was faculty at Table Rock a few years ago. I was feeling shy among the illustrious staff, but Judy was so funny, so warm and loving. I remember going to dinner with faculty and I’m not sure I’m remembering correctly, BUT I’m pretty sure she was having a gin and tonic, and I thought, Yes, I think I’ll have one too. I hardly ever drink them. But it was the right thing to do!
—MARJORIE HUDSON
Judy Goldman gave me the courage to write again. I wrote during high school and college, with a stray poem or song in later years. But it wasn’t until I took Judy Goldman’s memoir class at Table Rock ten years ago that I found my way back to writing. The creative opportunities and unconditional support Judy provided in that class were life-changing. I know that whether or not I ever publish another book, what really matters is that I write. (Realizing I knew her husband from playing racquetball tournaments sealed it – Judy is in my writing heart, and soul forever!)
—DEE STRIBLING
Judy Judy Judy…! You had me laughing within minutes of meeting you in 2001 at the Duke Writers Workshop-by-the-Sea and I loved you right off the bat. You mentioned having psychic abilities, so I asked you if a plan I was making would turn out all right. You said it would, it did, and I’ve been relying on your wisdom ever since. You’ve taught me so much of what I know about writing and teaching and mothering, about how to be fully alive in this world, and I am thankful for you every single day.
—ABIGAIL DeWITT
When I found my biological family in 2010, and decided to write about that, someone said, take a class from Judy Goldman. So I did. Judy urged me to tell my story with courage, honesty, and copious, pertinent details. She made me laugh, made me cry, and helped me remember. I read her memoirs and tried to follow her instructions and example. Though I fell far short, I still carry her stories, her laughter, her admonitions in my heart, and they made me a better writer. But more than that, they made me a kinder, wiser person. Thank you, Judy.
—CAROLE STICE
“You can absolutely lie about everyone else. You canNOT lie about yourself," she said. “Do not attach to the results.”
Well, I TableRock-attached to this silver-haired guru, this consolation-giver, this tear-dryer-upper. I attached to a voice whose every word had at least three syllables. I attached to one pair of eyes that peered directly into each of ours all at once. I attached to a slight turn of head when you’d feel her gaze on you before her face had even come into view. “What part of your past gives off heat? When you put your hands in your pockets, do you feel keys or do you feel lint?” I feel hot lint just everywhere now. (No sign of my keys.)
—STEPHEN BAREFOOT
One of my biggest compliments was when Judy told me last summer that I was like a little brother to her. Of course, she meant that like a little brother, I’m a bit of a goofball, I’m sure, but I’ll take the bond, no matter if it comes with caveats. She’s definitely a sister to me, but in some ways, a younger sister, because one of the defining features of Judy to me is her youthfulness. No matter how many years go by between seeing her, she tells the same embarrassing stories about me, always infused with warmth and humor.
—ROBIN HEMLEY
Meeting Judy was such a blessing. Greg had told me about their friendship and how she enlightened him on why he had relationship trouble.
“Greg” she said, as only Judy could, “you are too nice.”
I learned so much from you, Judy! In and out of class.
Thank you for being you!
—GENA RAWDON
I never took a single class with Judy. I only got to know Judy fairly recently. So you might wonder what I can add to the conversation. Here's what -- every reading Judy gave that I attended, whether at Table Rock or in a bookstore, was a Master Class in writing, as well as in how to conduct a public reading! And every Table Rock conference I attended was flavored with her energy and wit and encouragement and laughter. I am Judy Goldman-adjacent. I am Judy Goldman-infused as she cheers me and my writing on with a generosity that astounds.
—STEPHANIE SMITH
Like a Normal Judy
When my sister wanted her kids—
especially her toddler son—
to straighten up and fly
right, she’d say,
Put those tires back on every one
of those Matchbox cars
and stop that yowling—
like a normal Judy.
No one in our family is named Judy,
but it always worked. He’d stop
running in circles, maybe even
put on a little striped shirt
over his sagging
Pampers.
Judy was the gold standard
for all we believed to be
class and taste.
When first I heard Judy Goldman
read memoir in rich magnolia
tones, I witnessed all grace
my rude family
craved—
the pure essence
of Judyness.
—ROBERTA SCHULTZ
Judy and I have the same maiden name. We’re both Kurtzes, but we’re not related. It always gives me a thrill when we meet again – her face lights up and she calls me cousin! To be in Judy’s gaze is to feel sunshine on your skin. We may not be related, but we are family. We’re Table Rockers.
—AMY KURTZ SKELDING
Judy Judy Judy…I’ve been in awe of you since we met in Fred Lebron’s class way back when. I couldn’t believe I was sharing pages with a real writer, and I couldn’t believe how kind you were. I’ve stalked you ever since and thank heavens I did because you imparted the secret:
Push forward, Patti. That’s the best advice I can give you. It’s a war of attrition. Don’t attrish!
I keep those words in front of me and know for a fact they are true.
Thank you for not running when you see me coming. Love you.
—PATTI FRYE MEREDITH
Judy is one of the people you run into in life that makes your very existence better because you are in the same room with her. I think Judy’s sweetest magic is how she shares her love of writing and the process of creation to anyone who walks in her class. She has mentored and taught so many people. There is much love and so much happiness any time I think of Judy!
—GREG SCREWS
Each year at TR, Judy opened her heart to a group of strangers, creating a bond that enabled a safe environment where each was free and willing to bare their soul in memoir. Her laughter, warmth, and affection, but most of all, her wisdom, generosity, and care gave us the courage to share our stories. For me, Judy is the teacher and friend who pushes, encourages, compliments, and believes in me when I don’t believe in myself. She reminds me that writers are never too old to write, no story is boring or trivial, and laughter and love are everything.
—DEA ZULLO
“I’m so pleased to meet you!” were the first words Judy Goldman spoke to me. We were at the Sandhills Writers Conference, my first ever, and I’d submitted my first ever stab at a novel for critique. I was terrified. So, imagine my surprised delight when the classroom door swung open, and Judy asked my name. When I answered, her eyes went wide, and that’s when she said, “I’m so pleased to meet you!” Her words still ring in my head, the way I’m sure Judy’s signature voice sounds in many of our memories when we need friendly encouragement.
—LULU JOHNSON
I was a terrified first-timer. Then Judy introduced herself. Her humor sparkled with open-eyed innocence and wicked good timing. I thought, “This workshop stuff might just work.”
She asked if I’d signed up to give a reading. I said no. Her glare could have melted icebergs. She twitched an eyebrow, and I flew to the sign-up board.
I don’t know what I read, but I loved the experience. Judy was the first to congratulate me, her smile a promise of fun and fellowship. And I knew she’d taken me more seriously than I’d ever taken myself. Thank you, always, and with love.
—JUDY DEARLOVE
In your workshop, I began to take small pieces of my life and examine them more closely and then from farther away. One piece was the gold bangle bracelet I wore, a Christmas gift from my father the year he left my mother after 39 years of marriage. She preempted his surprise by telling me. And so life goes. When I look at the bracelet, I think of my father, and of you. I sat in your workshop and looked at it in a new way. Allowed it to tell me its story, which then allowed me to write mine.
—SUSAN CADDELL
Judy Goldman: Found Poem
(from Judy’s emails to me)
That subject line probably does not make you want to read any further!
As for my family -- as of this morning, everyone is humming along just fine.
Did you tell Joan that you had a roomful of old men in the palm of your hand?
I want you to know that Henry had a 1967 Volkswagen Beetle, which we drove for years, till things started falling off.
Please tell me it wasn’t a nightmare driving home last night and that you made it safe and sound.
I think that all of us instructors at Table Rock share something pretty special and if I were religious, I'd say little prayers of thankfulness for it.
You and Joan have fun in that haunted house in Charleston!
I’m already ironing my outfits!!
—JOSEPH BATHANTI
Dearest Judy—Never forget: “That dog is a ball hog!”
—GE
Dear Georgann, Donna, and everyone else I love at Table Rock,
This year, Valentine’s Day is Christmas, Hanukkah, New Year’s Eve, Halloween, July 4th, Arbor Day — and, oh yes, Thanksgiving — all rolled into one! Picture me reading your gorgeous messages and seeing Donna’s glorious photos. Now picture me crying, laughing, and imagining each of you right here beside me, because that’s exactly what it was like, making my way through the world’s most extraordinary Valentine ever. I cannot thank you all enough. Your messages — the poems, the notes, the memories -- touched my heart deeply. I’ll miss spending the week with you, but will be happy to see you one afternoon mid-week.
Thank you for being my friends. I’m a lucky duck.
So much affection and gratitude,
Judy
P.S. Georgann and Donna, would you mind forwarding this to everyone at Table Rock? I’m sorry to ask you to do yet another thing!
--
Judy Goldman
judygoldman@earthlink.net
704-334-6868
http://judygoldman.com
Child: A Memoir
published - May 2022
Order today!