FAQ About Shirley Jackson

Yes, Shirley Jackson participated in various writing groups and literary circles throughout her career. These groups provided her with valuable feedback, support, and opportunities for networking within the literary community. Some notable writing groups and circles she was involved in include:

• Bennington Writers' Conference: Shirley Jackson taught at Bennington College, and during her time there, she participated in the Bennington Writers' Conference. This conference allowed her to connect with other writers and engage in discussions about the craft of writing.
• Authors' League of America: Jackson was a member of the Authors' League of America, an organization that represents the interests of published authors. This membership provided her with opportunities to interact with fellow authors and stay informed about developments in the publishing world.
• The Academy of Arts and Letters: Jackson was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Letters, an organization that recognizes outstanding achievement in the arts. This prestigious membership demonstrated the recognition she received from her peers in the literary community.
• The Group: Jackson was part of a writing group known as "The Group" that met regularly to discuss and critique each other's works. The group included writers such as Ralph Ellison, Bernard Malamud, and Grace Paley.
• Friends and Peers: Throughout her life, Jackson maintained close friendships with several writers and poets, including Ralph Ellison and Elizabeth Janeway. These connections provided her with a supportive network of fellow writers.