Courses

Writing workshops sometimes focus entirely on the product, and little on the process, of writing. Yet establishing a writing practice that works for us is key to getting any writing done, not to mention good writing. This workshop will explore the nuances of the writing process—how to write in a manner that feels balanced, productive, sustainable, and rewarding. Topics to be addressed include: countering critical inner voices, building a daily writing practice, writing when uninspired, undertaking thorough revision, winnowing through and integrating feedback, and maintaining high standards for your work. We will also discuss your individual concerns and obstacles as well as do writing exercises designed to get you past them. We will explore why we write in the first place—what we intend, what we hope to discover—and how to bring that creative wisdom to the process itself.

In our initial meeting, we will explore blocks to writing, the challenges we face once we get going, and the importance of letting ourselves make mistakes. The second week we will focus on establishing a consistent practice through tempering discipline with kindness. We will draw upon writings by Natalie Goldberg, Anne Lamott, Rainer Maria Rilke, Julia Cameron, and Dinty Moore. You will emerge with a better understanding of your own writing process and how to engage in it fully and richly, as well as a concrete foundation for your long-term writing practice.