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I'm on a hunt. Can you help me?
I've been to a handful of writing workshops. I've been elated and inspired, and defeated and depressed. The best — and first — writing workshop I attended set the bar high. Offered by the now-defunct Taos Institute of Arts, the one-week workshop with poet Judyth Hill affirmed my desire (and shaky ability) to write poetry. It is not melodramatic to say it was an experience that changed my life.
There were others that were not-so-good. I don't want to repeat those feelings of dread and defeat. And when I'm paying a good sum for a learning experience, I don't want to walk away feeling a loss of enthusiasm, and hard-earned cash.
But still, I hunger for workshop invigoration. And I'm on the hunt. At this point, I'm not looking for a critique group or experience. I'm looking for a workshop like those Taos days, in which I generate new work in the company of others.
Any suggestions?
Have you been to, or heard of, generative writing workshops or retreats? Please let me know.
Saturday, May 8, 2010 at 11:09AM
Reader Comments (2)
Hi Drew,
I have a couple of ideas. Hedgebrook (a retreat on Whidbey Island for women writers) has recently started offering one week long "Master Classes." I took one with Carolyn Forche in December. We generated new work, listened to Carolyn "lecture/talk" on many poets and craft issues and had plenty of time to enjoy the beautiful area. You can check their website for new teachers. The price -- expensive -- except you get a week in a gorgeous place and instruction from someone amazing. Group is limited to six students. Other ideas: Centrum in Port Townsend, WA -- just make sure you choose your teacher carefully -- but the atmosphere and history of the conference is positive, warm, and helpful...In addition to your workshop class, you also have about a dozen choices of other workshops with other writers. These are the two options that seem to suit what you are looking for best.
Susan,
Thanks so much for the suggestions! Hedgebrook sounds ideal. I will definitely look into this.