Meaning: The quote by Marilyn Hacker, a celebrated American poet, highlights the unique perspective of creative writing programs in France. Hacker's assertion that the phenomenon of university creative writing programs doesn't exist in France offers a glimpse into the cultural and educational differences between the United States and France. This quote prompts a closer examination of the status of creative writing education in France and the factors contributing to its perceived novelty.

In the United States, creative writing programs have become an integral part of higher education, with numerous universities offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in creative writing. These programs provide aspiring writers with the opportunity to hone their craft, receive mentorship from established authors, and engage in workshops and seminars to develop their writing skills. The proliferation of creative writing programs in the U.S. has contributed to a vibrant literary culture and the emergence of many successful writers who have been shaped by their experiences in these programs.

In contrast, France has historically had a different approach to literary education. The country boasts a rich literary tradition and has been home to renowned writers and poets throughout history. However, the formalized study of creative writing as an academic discipline has not been as prevalent in French higher education. This cultural and educational distinction has led to the perception of creative writing programs as a novelty in France, as noted by Marilyn Hacker.

One possible explanation for the absence of widespread creative writing programs in French universities is the traditional emphasis on literature and the humanities within the French educational system. French students have long been exposed to classic works of literature and have been encouraged to engage with literary analysis and criticism. This focus on literary studies may have led to a preference for the study of existing works rather than the cultivation of original creative writing.

Additionally, the French literary tradition has been deeply intertwined with the concept of "l'ecriture," which encompasses not only the act of writing but also the philosophical and aesthetic dimensions of literary expression. This emphasis on the craft of writing as a philosophical and artistic endeavor may have influenced the perception of creative writing as an innate talent that is nurtured through personal exploration and reflection rather than formalized instruction within an academic setting.

Furthermore, the role of established literary institutions, such as the Academie Francaise, in preserving and promoting the French language and literary heritage may have contributed to the perception of creative writing programs as an oddity in France. These institutions have historically played a significant role in shaping literary norms and standards, and their influence on the literary landscape may have impacted the development of formalized creative writing programs within the French higher education system.

Despite the relative novelty of university creative writing programs in France, there are indications of a growing interest in creative writing education within the country. Some universities and cultural institutions have begun to offer workshops, seminars, and courses focused on creative writing, reflecting a shift in attitudes toward the formalized study of writing as a craft. Additionally, the emergence of contemporary French writers who have gained international recognition for their creative work suggests a changing landscape in which the value of creative writing as an academic pursuit is being reevaluated.

In conclusion, Marilyn Hacker's quote sheds light on the contrasting perspectives on university creative writing programs between the United States and France. The absence of widespread creative writing programs in French universities reflects a complex interplay of cultural, educational, and institutional factors. As the literary landscape continues to evolve, there may be opportunities for the formalized study of creative writing to gain greater recognition and acceptance within the French higher education system, offering aspiring writers new avenues for developing their craft and contributing to the rich tradition of French literature.