Name: Memoir Year w/ Nicole Chung
Start: 2027-02-09T19:00:00-05:00
End: 2027-11-16T21:00:00-05:00
Location: Zoom

The Writer’s Center 4508 Walsh Street
Bethesda, MD 20815 United States

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Are you a writer who identifies as LGBTQ+? Let’s hang out and talk writing! Come join us for an informal gathering at The Writer’s Center. Please bring a drink or an appetizer that serves six. You’re welcome to bring a friend, too. FREE & open to all DMV writers who identify as LGBTQ+. RSVP required […]

Atina Hartunian

Zoom

This workshop introduces a revision strategy that uses interconnected generative prompts to re-enter an existing draft, uncover hidden emotional dynamics, and reveal new possibilities for character, conflict, and story. Through visual presentation, brief craft discussions, guided writing exercises, and opportunities to reflect and share, participants will use these prompts to push both themselves and their characters in unexpected directions, breathing new life into stalled scenes and rediscovering the emotional momentum of their work. By the end of the workshop, participants will have generated new material, uncovered fresh insights into their characters, and developed a practical revision technique they can return to whenever a draft loses momentum. Participants are invited to have work-in-progress—a draft, scene, chapter, or story they'd like to revisit.

Judith Harris

Zoom

This workshop will offer a lecture each week, followed by workshoping participants’ poems. The class will focus on the elements of story, musicality, figuration, and most of all feeling. Open to all poets at all levels, who are curious about poetry and its craft and tools for revision.

The Writer’s Center 4508 Walsh Street
Bethesda, MD 20815 United States

Google Map

This year The Writer's Center turns 50! No writer succeeds alone. For fifty years, The Writer's Center has been a place where writers gather, learn, revise, encourage, and inspire one another. This anniversary celebrates the relationships that make writing possible. Together, we'll look back on our history with a building-wide scavenger hunt and a reading […]

Sue Ellen Thompson

Zoom

There is no "right" or "wrong" when it comes to deciding how a poem should end. But there are some options that might be more effective than others. This workshop will focus on closure—the strategies that poets have traditionally used to bring their poems to a clear, resonant conclusion. We will also discuss anti-closure—the resistance that so many feel toward poems that “click shut.” By looking at the work of several contemporary poets, we will discuss what worked best for their poems and might help yours.

Camille Cabrera

Zoom

Ever wanted to learn more about the self-publishing process? Then this workshop might be the right fit for you! Discover the core steps of self-publishing from a 40-time bestselling author. Explore editing, writing, and publishing tips intended to expedite the drafting journey. Delve into the core tools necessary to turn a strong draft into a […]

The Writer’s Center 4508 Walsh Street
Bethesda, MD 20815 United States

The Writer’s Center welcomes writer John DeDakis for a reading from his new book, Plot Twists: A Memoir on Writing and Living. John is joined by writer Austin S. Camacho. FREE & open to the public. RSVP below. John DeDakis is a former editor on CNN's "The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer." DeDakis, a former […]

Ariel Katz

Zoom

This course focuses on writing and reading *very* short fiction. Together, we’ll investigate the following questions: what can a story accomplish in a single page? In a single paragraph? How can we, as writers, create character, place, plot, or voice in such a compressed form? What techniques are helpful for drafting and revising a super-short story? How does contemporary “flash fiction” or "micro fiction" relate to older forms—like the fable—and other genres, like poetry? What makes a piece of very short prose a "story" at all? Each week, we will workshop participants' fiction and do writing exercises to learn about this form. We’ll also read a range of published flash fiction from a craft perspective. By the end of the workshop, each participant will have written and received feedback on at least one very short story (under 2,000 words). The course will conclude with a discussion of strategies for submitting very short fiction to literary magazines.

Zoom

Poet Lore, America’s oldest poetry journal and The Writer’s Center welcomes poet Melanie McCabe to our monthly Virtual Poetry Book Club for a discussion of her collection, All The Signs Were There. Melanie is joined by Book Club Host, Hannah Grieco. We encourage you to order a copy of the book from your local, independent bookseller […]

The Writer’s Center 4508 Walsh Street
Bethesda, MD 20815 United States

Google Map

Prose, poetry, and spoken word Open Mic @ The Writer’s Center! All writers are welcome to come and share 4-5 minutes of their latest work. Sign-up starts at 6:45pm, and readings begin promptly at 7pm. Limited to 20 readers, so arrive early if you plan to read. Sponsored by Poet Lore, America’s oldest poetry magazine. […]

Zoom

The Inner Loop and The Writer’s Center present a FREE virtual chat about the craft of fiction! We’re joined by Shelagh Powers Johnson to discuss her short story collection, A History of Existing Life. Shelagh is in conversation with author Michael Don. A History of Existing Life is The Inner Loop’s Author’s Corner spotlight. The Inner Loop cultivates and […]

Laura J. Oliver

Zoom

In this one-night introduction, historian/biographer Ken Ackerman shares the tricks of the trade for investigating our family roots, going back generations, using archives, interviews, internet sources, family records, and memories - and ideas to organize and share our heritage with children and grandchildren.

Lynn Auld Schwartz

Zoom

There is no one-size-fits-all strategy for story structure. Let’s discuss a plan that works for you. We’ll examine your story’s strengths and weaknesses, focusing on both the destination and the journey. Does your narrative feature a compelling character arc, a strong point of entry, well-placed flashbacks, and a transformative, resonant ending? Will readers care? We will use maps, sketches, and diagrams, emphasizing the importance of revising your initial plan as your story evolves. Bring your specific idea for a short story, memoir, or novel.

Michele Wolf

Zoom

This intensive one-day workshop will offer all poets—whether they have yet to submit their first poem to a literary journal or are ready to present a publisher with a book-length manuscript—hands-on advice on how to achieve their publishing goals.

The Writer’s Center 4508 Walsh Street
Bethesda, MD 20815 United States

Google Map

The Writer’s Center welcomes the Ole’ Blue Claw Maryland Anthology for a reading and celebration of a new anthology featuring twenty-three distinctive works, a mix of flash and short fiction, by writers from across Maryland. Join Maryland writers Preston Ford, Greta Ehrig, Ritchie Porter, Rhonda Zimlich, Cathy Tsang, and Theodore Carter for a reading of their […]

Zoom

The Writer’s Center welcomes author Caroline Bock to our monthly Fiction Book Club for a discussion of her most recent collection, The Other Beautiful People, at The Writer's Center! Caroline is joined by Book Club Host, Hannah Grieco. We encourage you to order a copy of the book from your local, independent bookseller or online […]

The Writer’s Center 4508 Walsh Street
Bethesda, MD 20815 United States

Google Map

The Writer’s Center welcomes editors, poets and prose writers featured in recently published anthologies from Bordighera Press, June Rose Press, and Motina Books to read from those anthologies and to discuss the publication process. Books will be available for sale and signing. Get started on your holiday shopping! FREE & open to the public. RSVP […]

Nikki Frias

Zoom

“Show, Don’t Tell” is an interactive writing workshop designed to help participants bring their stories, ideas, and experiences to life on the page. Through guided prompts, sensory exercises, and creative writing activities, participants will practice moving beyond explanation and into vivid, specific, emotionally engaging writing. This workshop invites writers to explore how detail, dialogue, action, setting, and perspective can create stronger connections with readers. Participants will have opportunities to write, reflect, share, and revise in a supportive environment. Whether they are working on personal essays, fiction, professional storytelling, or simply looking to strengthen their creative voice, this workshop offers practical tools to make writing more immediate, memorable, and alive.

Zoom

In this one-night introduction, historian/biographer Ken Ackerman shares the tricks of the trade for investigating our family roots, going back generations, using archives, interviews, internet sources, family records, and memories - and ideas to organize and share our heritage with children and grandchildren.

The Writer’s Center 4508 Walsh Street
Bethesda, MD 20815 United States

You’ve drafted your picture book, what’s the next step? Learn to revise and polish your picture book manuscript before submitting to an agent or publisher. A widely published author and an acclaimed illustrator will lead discussions in pacing, page turns, storyboarding, and visually dramatic storytelling. During this hands-on workshop, writers will be editing their own manuscripts and enhancing their skills as picture book creators. Bring your questions and two double-spaced copies of a picture-book manuscript that you’ve revised. Workshop may most benefit those who have taken Writing Picture Books or another picture book class.

Zoom

The Writer’s Center presents a FREE virtual chat about the craft of nonfiction! We’re joined by author Mathangi Subramanian for a discussion of her new publication, Our Periods, Ourselves: An Empowered Teen's Guide. Mathangi is in conversation with Amy Freeman, author and Development Director at The Writer’s Center. RSVP below to receive login information (our virtual events […]

Kathryn Johnson

Zoom

Learn the methods professional writers use to come up with winning plots for their fiction.

The Writer’s Center 4508 Walsh Street
Bethesda, MD 20815 United States

Google Map

The Writer’s Center welcomes poet Carolyn Joyner for a reading from her debut collection, Imagine His Mother Witnessing. Carolyn is joined in conversation by poets Joseph Ross and Abdul Ali. FREE & open to the public. RSVP below. Carolyn Joyner is the author of Imagine His Mother Witnessing (2026) which considers themes of loss, an epic battle with […]

The Writer’s Center 4508 Walsh Street
Bethesda, MD 20815 United States

Google Map

The Writer’s Center welcomes 1455 to celebrate the launch of 1455 first annual book contest winner Melanie Hatter. This event features a reading by the author followed by a Q&A with 1455 Executive Director Sean Murphy. FREE & open to the public. RSVP below. Melanie S. Hatter is the author of Malawi’s Sisters, which was selected by Edwidge […]

Tammy Greenwood

Wet Ink

Do you have a finished draft of a novel but don’t know what to do next? This workshop will take you through the revision and editing process step-by-step. From large-picture issues like plot and structure, characterization, etc… to line editing, we will look at what it takes to revise your own novel without the assistance of a professional editor.

Julie Lythcott-Haims

Zoom

This workshop is a two-hour seminar for those who want to better understand the genre of memoir and the craft elements required to write it well. In this course we will: Explore the tensions inherent in being author, narrator, and subject all at once; Unpack the subjectivity of truth; Commit to treat all characters fairly; […]

Kathryn Johnson

Zoom

Writing a novel takes commitment, but it doesn’t need to be daunting. Learn how to generate a handful of plots to choose from, methods for effectively planning your story, and simple hacks for fine tuning your basic fiction skills. Students will initiate a flexible writing plan that will keep their writing flowing. This is a great half-day session for the beginning long-form fiction writer, or for the more experienced author in need of a quick strategy brush-up.

The Writer’s Center 4508 Walsh Street
Bethesda, MD 20815 United States

Google Map

The Writer’s Center welcomes James Jay Dudley Luce Poet Laureate, Manav Sachdeva, for a reading from his collection, Sufi's Garland. Manav is joined in conversation by writer Sonja Horgen. FREE & open to the public. RSVP below. Manav Sachdeva Maasoom (also known as Maasoom Shah, and MS Maasoom) is a poet, diplomat, chief international officer […]

Sue Ellen Thompson

Zoom

How poets handle syntax—the arrangement of words in a sentence—is crucial to everything from establishing the voice of a poem to evoking a particular response from the reader. In this workshop, we will take a close look at how sentences are put together and how changing their structure can send a poem off in a new direction. We will also examine the relationship between the sentence and the line and how to control the tension between them.

The Writer’s Center 4508 Walsh Street
Bethesda, MD 20815 United States

Google Map

The Writer’s Center welcomes the Café Muse Literary Salon for a reading featuring writers from Washington Writer's Publishing House reading from the America’s Future Anthology. The evening begins at 7 PM with Michael Davis live on classical guitar. The readings begin at 7:30 PM with opening remarks by a Café Muse co-host. FREE & open […]

Susan Coll

Zoom

Meet Susan Coll, instructor for our Novel Year workshop, and have all your questions about the program answered! The Writer’s Center staff will be on hand, too, to address any logistical questions. Register below! About the Program Application Deadline: January 12th, 2027 Workshop Dates: Begins January 26th, meeting biweekly for ~10 months Cost: $5,400 | Members […]

Zoom

Poet Lore, America’s oldest poetry journal and The Writer’s Center welcomes poet Kelly Grace Thomas to our monthly Virtual Poetry Book Club for a discussion of her collection, Future Tense. Kelly is joined by Book Club Host, Hannah Grieco. We encourage you to order a copy of the book from your local, independent bookseller or online […]

The Writer’s Center 4508 Walsh Street
Bethesda, MD 20815 United States

Google Map

Prose, poetry, and spoken word Open Mic @ The Writer’s Center! All writers are welcome to come and share 4-5 minutes of their latest work. Sign-up starts at 6:45pm, and readings begin promptly at 7pm. Limited to 20 readers, so arrive early if you plan to read. Sponsored by Poet Lore, America’s oldest poetry magazine. […]

Hank Wallace

Zoom

Lead with the future — not background — for lead-ership, especially in a crisis. That’s the most important of eight journalism skills that will transform your writing. The others: write your readers’ language, be positive (to be both clear and upbeat), lay out logically, be consistent, be precise, be concise and choose strong verbs. (Plus a Speak Like the News skill: avoid “uptalk?”) Emulate the vivid news examples you’ll see in this workshop, and you’ll strengthen your writing voice with lively, engaging news style. At 7 sharp, we’ll critique TheWallStreetJournal.com, seeing how to communicate your main point in just a few words. To cover as much ground as possible, we’ll have just a few writing exercises and most of them will take less than a minute each.

Kathryn Johnson

Zoom

You may think you don't have the time, energy, or inspiration to write because of your hectic lifestyle. Wrong! We'll share methods many professional writers use to complete their books in months instead of years, their short stories in mere weeks. Become the dedicated author you've always dreamed of being. (Ideal for writers who don’t have 8 weeks to dedicate to the Extreme Novelist course.)

Claudia Gary

Zoom

Guided by an award-winning and internationally published author of sonnets, villanelles, and other metrical poems, you’ll first read time-honored sonnets to see how and why they work. Next the class will write a group sonnet, and then -- with or without shortcuts -- you’ll start one of your own. You’ll leave with at least one new (draft) or improved sonnet, as well as insights about how writing poems in form can unlock deeper meaning and enhance everything you write.

Lindsey Van Wagner

Zoom

Meet Lindsey Van Wagner, instructor for The Artist's Way: A Year of Creative Reawakening, and have all your questions about the program answered! The Writer’s Center staff will be on hand, too, to address any logistical questions. Register below! About the Program Application Deadline: January 25th, 2027 Workshop Dates: Begins February 6, 2027, one Saturday […]

The Writer’s Center 4508 Walsh Street
Bethesda, MD 20815 United States

Google Map

The Writer’s Center welcomes writer John R. Edwards for a reading from his debut memoir, Polly: Takes Me on the Ride of her Life. FREE & open to the public. RSVP below. John R. Edwards is a Navy veteran, who retired as Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center deputy chief engineer, then became a hip […]

Zoom

The Writer’s Center welcomes author Diana Rojas to our monthly Fiction Book Club for a discussion of her most recent novel, They Hold Grudges, at The Writer's Center! Diana is joined by Book Club Host, Hannah Grieco. We encourage you to order a copy of the book from your local, independent bookseller or online » […]

The Writer’s Center 4508 Walsh Street
Bethesda, MD 20815 United States

Google Map

The Writer’s Center welcomes graduate students of the American University MFA Program for a reading and discussion of their findings this semester. These graduate students are joined by poet and American University professor, David Keplinger. FREE & open to the public. RSVP below. About the Event In this reading featuring graduate students of the American […]

Nicole Chung

Zoom

Meet Nicole Chung, instructor for our Memoir Year workshop, and have all your questions about the program answered! The Writer’s Center staff will be on hand, too, to address any logistical questions. Register below! About the Program Application Deadline: January 30th, 2027 Workshop Dates: Begins February 9th, meeting biweekly for 10 months Cost: $5,400 | Members […]

Nikki Frias

Zoom

Everyone has stories worth telling, they just don't always recognize them. This interactive workshop helps participants uncover meaningful moments from their everyday lives and transform them into engaging pieces of writing. Through guided reflection, creative prompts, and interactive writing exercises, participants will explore memory, emotion, and observation to discover the stories hiding in ordinary experiences. Rather than focusing on perfect prose, this workshop encourages curiosity, authenticity, and play. Writers will experiment with different ways of approaching personal storytelling while gaining practical tools they can use long after the workshop ends. Participants will leave with new writing, a collection of prompts to inspire future work, and greater confidence in their ability to find stories wherever they go.

Susan Coll

Zoom

Write your novel in a year with bestselling novelist Susan Coll! Whether you have been thinking about writing a novel for years but are not sure how to get started, or are already published but embarking on a new project, this year-long workshop is intended to help get the next book off the ground. Attend […]

The Writer’s Center 4508 Walsh Street
Bethesda, MD 20815 United States

Google Map

The Writer’s Center CraftCon now accepting panel proposals! Do you have new ideas about the art and methods of writing that you can't wait to share? If so, The Writer's Center is now accepting panel proposals for CraftCon, a one-day virtual conference on the future of the craft of creative writing. We’re looking for writers […]

Lindsey Van Wagner

The Writer’s Center 4508 Walsh Street
Bethesda, MD 20815 United States

Through reflection, community, and practice, you’ll awaken the artist within and build a creative life that feels aligned and alive. This year-long journey through The Artist’s Way offers a sustained path for creative reawakening and artistic growth. Writers, artists, and creative seekers will move chapter by chapter through Julia Cameron’s classic text, reconnecting with their […]

The Writer’s Center 4508 Walsh Street
Bethesda, MD 20815 United States

Google Map

The Washington Writers’ Publishing House celebrates the 2027 winners of its annual book contests! Jason Gebhardt will read from Washington Writers' Publishing House's 50th Anniversary Editor's Prize winning, Dictionary of Air. Yael Kiken will read from the Washington Writers' Publishing House's Translation Prize winning, Zarpamos. Emily Holland will read from the Washington Writers’ Publishing House the […]

Nicole Chung

Zoom

Work on your memoir or collection of essays with bestselling author Nicole Chung! This intensive workshop is open to writers working on a memoir, memoir-in-essays, or essay collection. You’ll have the opportunity to participate in lively craft discussions, reflection/writing exercises, and in-depth workshops designed to help you identify and hone your strengths as a writer. […]

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