Terry Gross’ interview with Scott Spencer (of A Man in the Woods) notes that the author has “taught fiction writing at Columbia University, and in prison” (1:10; I think she says “in prison,” although it might be “at prisons”). The tone sounds like this sort of trajectory is completely normal, like a sandwich and soup. To me, it invites questions:

• Can I be the only one who finds the juxtaposition of those two fine American institutions curious or notable?
• How many writers or professors have taught at an Ivy League school and a penal facility?
• Is teaching at the one pretty much like teaching at the other?
• If you’ve currently got a gig at a prison, how do you make the transition to Columbia? I assume relatively few people want to make the opposite leap.