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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260120T190000
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UID:10005006-1768935600-1796160600@writer.org
SUMMARY:The Novel Year w/ Susan Coll
DESCRIPTION:Bring your novel to life with best-selling author Susan Coll!\nWhether 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. \n\nWatch the Virtual Info Session\nMeet Susan Coll\, instructor for our Novel Year workshop\, and have all your questions about the program answered! \nWATCH NOW >>>\n\nOver the course of twenty sessions\, we will:\n\ncreate a fun\, warm\, and supportive writing community\ndiscuss and engage in exercises focused on various aspects of craft including dialogue\, setting\, plot\, point of view\, character development\, tense\, and much more\nworkshop one hundred pages per student\, broken into four submissions of 25 pages each (*students are also welcome to use their allotted workshop time to discuss their work and/or writing dilemmas rather than submit pages).\ndiscuss publishing\, including drafting sample query letters and elevator pitches\nhear from guest speakers including published novelists and industry experts\nread two novels (tbd) to discuss and deconstruct as a group with an eye toward both craft and publishing trends\nthe instructor is happy to schedule individual follow up sessions as requested following critique sessions\, as well as a six-month or one-year check in after the class concludes.\n\n*Students should be prepared to read and offer comments on the work of other participants. Detailed guidance will be provided at the first class about how this process will work. \n\nSchedule\nThis class will meet virtually every other Tuesday\, with a two-month reading and writing break over the summer.  Workshop dates run from January 20\, 2026 – December 1\, 2026\, 7–9:30pm ET\, with a month-long break over the summer for students to focus on writing.  \nJan. 20\nFeb. 3\nFeb. 17\nMarch 3\nMarch 17\nMarch 31\nApril 14\nApril 28\nMay 12\nMay 26\nJune 9\nJune 23 \nSUMMER BREAK \nAugust 25\nSept. 8\nSept. 22\nOct. 6\nOct. 20\nNov. 3\nNov. 17\nDec. 1 \n\n1:1 Mentoring\nAll workshops will be held over Zoom\, with additional opportunities to meet 1:1 with Susan upon request. All enrolled students will have the option to schedule an individual follow-up meeting (1 hour) with Susan approximately 6 months after the conclusion of the workshop.\n \n\nTo Apply\nApplication Deadline: Friday\, January 9\, 2026 \nTo apply\, please submit a cover letter describing your background and the project that you have in mind. The first five pages of the novel you will be working on are welcome as part of the application\, but not required. The class will be limited to ten students. Send your submission to emily.holland@writer.org by Friday\, January 9th\, 2026. Admissions will be on a rolling basis so participants are encouraged to submit early. \nAcceptance into the workshop is required before registering. \n\nAbout Book Farm @ The Writer’s Center\nThe Writer’s Center hosts a series of workshops for serious writers to complete book-length projects\, generate new work for publication\, or master the elements of craft within a specific genre. You’ll work with an acclaimed author\, guiding you through 4-12 months of lessons\, workshops\, and revisions. Our instructors are all accomplished educators with a track record of student success. Limited enrollment with rolling admission up to the application deadline\, so apply right away to secure your spot! \nAll Book Farm participants receive an exclusive tote bag\, a craft book recommended by the instructor\, and a $100 gift certificate good toward future TWC workshops. Participants also receive exclusive access to The Writer’s Center staff\, all of whom are accomplished writers with extensive experience in editing and publishing.
URL:https://writer.org/event/novel-year/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Fiction,Master Level,Workshop,Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://writer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/writing-bookshelves.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260201T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261227T000000
DTSTAMP:20260113T232517Z
CREATED:20251118T181440Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260113T232517Z
UID:10005010-1769904000-1798329600@writer.org
SUMMARY:The Artist's Way: A Year of Creative Reawakening w/ Lindsey Van Wagner
DESCRIPTION:Through reflection\, community\, and practice\, you’ll awaken the artist within and build a creative life that feels aligned and alive.\nThis 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 sense of purpose and play. The course offers the freedom to move at your own pace on Wet Ink\, while regular virtual gatherings provide structure\, engagement\, and a sense of shared creative energy. Participants will receive guidance\, accountability\, and community support as you nurture your creative practices. Each session weaves reflection\, discussion\, and inspiration to help build consistency\, courage\, and joy in your work. \n\nWatch the Virtual Info Session\nMeet Lindsey Van Wagner\, instructor for The Artist’s Way: A Year of Creative Reawakening\, and have all your questions about the program answered! \nWATCH NOW >>>\n\nFormat\n\nZoom sessions every month (11 total) for guided discussion and exercises. Full schedule for meetings TBD.\nWeekly engagement on Wet Ink through prompts\, reflections\, and peer feedback.\nOptional “Creative Partner” pairings for accountability.\nMonthly themes (e.g.\, Courage\, Flow\, Abundance\, Trust) to anchor growth.\nYear-end community celebration and sharing of work.\n\nParticipants should plan to spend 1–2 hours per week on reading\, journaling\, and completing creative exercises from The Artist’s Way. Engagement on Wet Ink will support this rhythm through short reflections\, prompts\, and check-ins. Because the course combines self-paced work with monthly live meetings\, students will benefit from both flexibility and community accountability. \nThis workshop is designed for writers\, artists\, and creative seekers at any stage who want to rekindle inspiration\, develop consistency\, and strengthen trust in their creative process. It’s especially well-suited for those feeling creatively blocked\, in transition\, or craving a supportive community to hold them throughout the year. Whether you’re returning to your art after time away or seeking to deepen your connection to your voice\, this journey offers both structure and spaciousness to help you rediscover your creative rhythm. \nRequired text: The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity by Julia Cameron \n\nStudents Can Expect To:\n\nComplete The Artist’s Way with structured accountability and community support.\nReconnect with creative intuition\, curiosity\, and confidence.\nDevelop sustainable creative habits and rituals.\nBuild lasting connections with fellow artists and writers.\nLeave with tangible work—such as written reflections\, short pieces\, a portfolio\, and a Creative Manifesto—that embodies your year of transformation.\n\n\nTo Apply\nApplication Deadline: Sunday\, January 11\, 2026 \nPlease submit responses to the application questionnaire via this Google Form. We accept students on a rolling basis and encourage you to apply early! If you do not hear back from us with a confirmation that we received your application or you have any questions\, please reach out to Emily Holland at emily.holland@writer.org. \nAPPLY HERE >>>\nAcceptance into the workshop is required before registering. \n\nAbout Book Farm @ The Writer’s Center\nThe Writer’s Center hosts a series of workshops for serious writers to complete book-length projects\, generate new work for publication\, or master the elements of craft within a specific genre. You’ll work with an acclaimed author\, guiding you through 4-12 months of lessons\, workshops\, and revisions. Our instructors are all accomplished educators with a track record of student success. Limited enrollment with rolling admission up to the application deadline\, so apply right away to secure your spot! \nAll Book Farm participants receive an exclusive tote bag\, a craft book recommended by the instructor\, and a $100 gift certificate good toward future TWC workshops. Participants also receive exclusive access to The Writer’s Center staff\, all of whom are accomplished writers with extensive experience in editing and publishing.
URL:https://writer.org/event/the-artists-way/
LOCATION:Wet Ink
CATEGORIES:All Levels,Mixed Genre,Wet Ink,Workshop,Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://writer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Writing-Pen-Notebooks.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260203T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261117T210000
DTSTAMP:20251209T181901Z
CREATED:20251106T193955Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T181901Z
UID:10005003-1770145200-1794949200@writer.org
SUMMARY:Memoir Year w/ Nicole Chung
DESCRIPTION:Work on your memoir with bestselling author Nicole Chung!\nThis intensive workshop is open to writers working on a memoir or memoir-in-essays. You’ll have the opportunity to participate in lively craft discussions\, generative exercises\, and in-depth workshops designed to help you identify and hone your strengths as a writer. If you have an idea for a memoir and are looking to jumpstart it—or are already underway\, but want some help to maintain your momentum—this class will help you take concrete next steps and deepen your craft in a supportive community. \n\nWatch the Virtual Info Session\nMeet Nicole Chung\, instructor for our Memoir Year workshop\, and have all your questions about the program answered! \nWATCH NOW >>>\n\nFormat\nThrough in-class readings\, craft talks\, and guided writing prompts\, we’ll explore book openings\, plot structure\, characterization\, setting\, writing the self\, and more. We’ll spend time reflecting and brainstorming\, learning how to identify and pursue the stories that matter most to you. You will have the opportunity to generate new pages throughout the course and have at least two memoir excerpts (10 – 20 pages each) workshopped by your instructor and peers. \nWe’ll discuss the different types of memories\, the role imagination can play in personal storytelling\, and whether and how to bring research and reportage into your memoir. We’ll read excerpts from both classic and recent memoirs\, examining how other writers have organized and explored their personal stories. We’ll consider the ethics of writing about real people and events\, and how to establish the boundaries you may need. We’ll address your questions about book proposals\, pitching\, and the publishing industry. We’ll hear from visiting authors and literary agents who will share tips and talk about the writing and publication processes.  \nThis course will allow you to focus on and grow in your craft in community with your fellow writers\, helping you build the sustainable writing practice you want—one that will allow you to continue showing up for your work\, and telling the stories you need to tell\, long after our workshop ends. \nWriters are expected to read and respond to their peers’ work outside of class\, and generate new writing at their own pace.  \n\nSchedule\nThis class will typically meet twice per month from February 3\, 2026 – November 17\, 2026\, 7–9pm ET\, although there may be one or two longer breaks over the summer for students to focus on writing. Full schedule TBD. \n\n1:1 Mentoring\nAll workshops will be held over Zoom\, with additional opportunities to meet 1:1 with Nicole upon request. All enrolled students will have the option to schedule an individual follow-up meeting (1 hour) with Nicole during the first quarter of 2027.\n \n\nTo Apply\nApplication Deadline: Saturday\, January 24\, 2026 \nPlease share 1-2 paragraphs detailing your writing goals and/or intentions and a writing sample of 10-20 pages (double-spaced). You may also choose to include a one-page résumé or CV. Send your submission to emily.holland@writer.org by Saturday\, January 24th\, 2026. Admissions will be on a rolling basis so participants are encouraged to submit early. \nAcceptance into the workshop is required before registering. \n\nStudent Testimonials\n“Working with Nicole was like getting an ultra-engaged MFA professor\, an eagle-eyed editor\, and an ever-supportive writing coach all in one. I am a much better writer (not to mention critical reader!) as a result of her teaching\, and I would absolutely recommend her to any writer who’s seeking to take their work and creative journey to the next level.” —Nik Chang Hoon \n“Nicole is an exceptional teacher whose superpower is nurturing her students’ creativity\, empowering their growth\, and building community. Through craft talks\, readings\, writing prompts\, and insightful comments\, she supports each student in finding their stories and bringing them to life.” —Enid K. \n“Nicole’s class was one of the first I took after spending more than 10 years away from creative writing. I felt like she opened this whole world up to me by sharing her expertise not only on the craft of writing but also on the business of publishing. The lessons I learned in her class have paid immense dividends for me—I would not have the writing community and career that I have today without learning from her example. I consider Nicole a role model for her generosity toward her students and fellow writers in general\, and I couldn’t recommend her classes more enthusiastically!” —Hannah Bae \n“Nicole’s class is terrific for both novices to the genre and experienced writers. She creates an ideal mix of workshops\, craft lectures\, and guest speakers that teaches students new skills and keeps them inspired about their own work. Nicole is also warm\, supportive\, and brings out the best in her students. She curates a supportive cohort of students who strive to bring out the best in each other. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to participate!” —Anne Kim \n“It was truly a life-changing experience getting the opportunity to learn about memoir writing under the guidance of Nicole Chung. She was so thoughtful and generous with her enlightening ideas and exercises\, as well as feedback on my writing. The boundless empathy and encouragement she showed her students brought us all closer together as a cohort\, where we felt free to truly express ourselves and grow as writers and people in the process. I highly recommend Nicole’s workshops to anyone looking to evolve in their writing craft.” —Jean Trinh \n“I feel very fortunate to have taken Nicole’s memoir class. She offers the perfect blend of workshopping opportunities\, craft discussions\, and guest author/agent appearances\, all while coaching\, cheering\, and nudging participants along in a low-key but highly effective manner. Perhaps what I appreciate most about Nicole is the great care she takes with each participant’s story. Her class has been transformational for my writing.” —Ruth Berg \n“Nicole is a thoughtful and skilled facilitator. I love that she uses a clear and consistent strengths-based philosophy. Working from strengths creates an environment of safety for memoirists to share\, critique\, and revise our most personal stories. In our memoir workshop\, Nicole facilitates skillfully to bring out the shared wisdom of the group and ensure that writers feel empowered to generate and revise our work. Highly recommend working with her if you have the chance!” —Alex Shevrin Venet \n\nAbout Book Farm @ The Writer’s Center\nThe Writer’s Center hosts a series of workshops for serious writers to complete book-length projects\, generate new work for publication\, or master the elements of craft within a specific genre. You’ll work with an acclaimed author\, guiding you through 4-12 months of lessons\, workshops\, and revisions. Our instructors are all accomplished educators with a track record of student success. Limited enrollment with rolling admission up to the application deadline\, so apply right away to secure your spot! \nAll Book Farm participants receive an exclusive tote bag\, a craft book recommended by the instructor\, and a $100 gift certificate good toward future TWC workshops. Participants also receive exclusive access to The Writer’s Center staff\, all of whom are accomplished writers with extensive experience in editing and publishing.
URL:https://writer.org/event/memoir-year/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Master Level,Nonfiction,Workshop,Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://writer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Writing-Books-side.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260304T200000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261230T220000
DTSTAMP:20260211T184513Z
CREATED:20251218T180033Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260211T184513Z
UID:10005139-1772654400-1798668000@writer.org
SUMMARY:Novel Club w/ Lisa Ko
DESCRIPTION:Jumpstart your novel and writing practice in this ten-month intensive!\nIf you’re wondering how to write a novel and sustain a writing practice in the midst of everything\, Novel Club is for you. Together\, with the guidance of an experienced mentor and author and the camaraderie of your Novel Club cohort\, this is the year we will write and revise our novels. Through craft talks\, workshops\, and generative exercises\, you’ll experiment\, look at your blocks\, and define your creative process\, building a regular writing practice that works for your project and busy life. You’ll find a clear path forward for your manuscript and actionable next steps. \n\nWatch the Virtual Info Session\nMeet Lisa Ko\, instructor for our Novel Year workshop\, and have all your questions about the program answered! \nWATCH NOW >>>\n\nOver these ten months\, you will learn:\n\nStorytelling techniques and craft strategies and how to apply them: building scenes; developing characters; and elements of structure\, plot\, dialogue\, voice\, and perspective\nUncover what your novel is about\, clarify your writing intentions\, and develop a plan for how to achieve them\nOpportunities to workshop and thoughtfully engage with each other’s novels in progress in a supportive environment\nPractical skills for the writing life and demystifying the publication process\n\nStudents may read and prepare written comments on up to 50 pages of their peers’ writing for each class meeting. You may also read an excerpt of published work in preparation for craft discussions. \n\nYou should take this workshop if:\n\nYou have a story you want to tell\, but don’t know where to start\nYou’re at the beginning stages of writing a novel and unsure of how to proceed\nYou’ve started writing a novel\, but need a road map and more consistent structure to get to the finish line\nYou’re a serious writer who is open to rigor and play and ready to show up with curiosity and consistency\n\n\nSchedule\nThis class will meet virtually every other Wednesday\, with 20 total sessions. Workshop dates run from March 4\, 2026 – December 30\, 2026\, 8 – 10 pm ET. Full dates TBD. \n\n1:1 Mentoring\nAll workshops will be held over Zoom\, with additional opportunities to meet 1:1 with Lisa upon request. All enrolled students will have the option to schedule an individual follow-up meeting (1 hour) with Lisa approximately 6 months after the conclusion of the workshop.\n \n\nTo Apply\nApplication Deadline: Monday\, February 16\, 2026 \nTo apply\, send a brief cover letter explaining why you want to take this class and\, if applicable\, what your book in progress is about and where you are in your project (e.g.\, in the beginning/brainstorming stages\, in the middle of writing a first draft\, on your second round of revisions). A 5-10 page writing sample is encouraged\, but not required. Send your submission to emily.holland@writer.org by Monday\, February 16th\, 2026. Admissions will be on a rolling basis so participants are encouraged to submit early. \nAcceptance into the workshop is required before registering. \n\nAbout Book Farm @ The Writer’s Center\nThe Writer’s Center hosts a series of workshops for serious writers to complete book-length projects\, generate new work for publication\, or master the elements of craft within a specific genre. You’ll work with an acclaimed author\, guiding you through 4-12 months of lessons\, workshops\, and revisions. Our instructors are all accomplished educators with a track record of student success. Limited enrollment with rolling admission up to the application deadline\, so apply right away to secure your spot! \nAll Book Farm participants receive an exclusive tote bag\, a craft book recommended by the instructor\, and a $100 gift certificate good toward future TWC workshops. Participants also receive exclusive access to The Writer’s Center staff\, all of whom are accomplished writers with extensive experience in editing and publishing.
URL:https://writer.org/event/novel-club-w-lisa-ko/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Fiction,Master Level,Workshop,Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://writer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Lisa-Ko-Novel-Club-h.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260915T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20270622T130000
DTSTAMP:20260817T151525Z
CREATED:20260714T160403Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260817T151525Z
UID:10005314-1789470000-1813669200@writer.org
SUMMARY:One Year to Your YA Novel w/ Betsy Cornwell
DESCRIPTION:Write your YA novel over the course of a school year with bestselling author Betsy Cornwell!\nIn this intensive ten-month course\, you’ll take your young adult novel from concept to complete manuscript with guidance from New York Times bestselling author Betsy Cornwell\, as well as mutual support from fellow participants. \n\nWatch the Virtual Info Session\nMeet Betsy Cornwell\, instructor for our yearlong YA novel workshop\, and have all your questions about the program answered! \n \n  \n\nWhat to expect:\nLive classes every two weeks will focus on craft talks\, close reading\, and the development of a practical “tool box” of writing and storytelling skills\, as well as group workshop time. You’ll also have access to one-on-one mentorship sessions with Betsy\, as well as the option to be matched with a classmate for critique partnership and accountability. \nThe best books for young people are both timely and timeless\, and require at least as much creative scope and rigor as writing for adults. Newbery-winning young adult author Madeleine L’Engle wrote that “You have to write the book that wants to be written. And if the book will be too difficult for grown-ups\, then you write it for children.”   \nIn this course\, we’ll consider examples of brilliant books for young readers\, and read through these texts together from a craft perspective with the goal of writing young adult books that are vivid\, honest\, and complex—never condescending or “less than” adult novels. If you have an idea for a YA novel that you’re ready to take seriously\, this is the course for you! \n\nStructure\nThis course is designed to mirror the school year\, from September to June\, and is offered during lunch hours Eastern time to give parents of school-age children the best chance to participate. That said\, you absolutely don’t have to be a parent to join us! \nClasses will begin with a short warm-up writing exercise\, followed by individual check-ins and discussion of the current assigned book (see below). For the first part of the course\, from September through December\, the rest of the class will focus on specific\, actionable tools for planning and completing your first draft. In the second part of the course\, from December through April\, the focus will shift to group workshopping and feedback. The final two months of the course\, in May and June\, will look at the publication process and assist students in developing query packages for their books. \nA YA novel will also be assigned for reading and discussion every two months\, for a total of five books. Participants are encouraged to nominate their own favorite YA novels for inclusion. \n\nSchedule\nThis class will meet virtually twice a month on Tuesdays\, for 20 total sessions. Workshop dates run from September 15\, 2026 – June 22\, 2027\,  11am–1pm ET. \nSept. 15\nSept. 29 \nOct. 6\nOct. 20 \nNov. 3\nNov. 17 \nDec. 1\nDec. 15 \nJan. 5\nJan. 19 \nFeb. 2\nFeb. 16 \nMarch 2\nMarch 16 \nApril 6\nApril 20 \nMay 4\nMay 18 \nJune 8\nJune 22 \n\n1:1 Mentoring\nAll workshops will be held over Zoom\, with additional opportunities to meet 1:1 with Betsy upon request. All enrolled students will have the option to schedule an individual follow-up meeting (1 hour) with Betsy approximately 6 months after the conclusion of the workshop.\n \n\nTo Apply\nApplication Deadline: Friday\, September 4\, 2026 \nTo apply for the course\, please submit the following via email to emily.holland@writer.org: \n\nA ten- to twenty-page sample of your creative writing\, in any genre\nA brief cover letter including your reasons for wanting to join the class\, a summary of your book idea and where you are in the writing process\, and a YA book you’d like to nominate for the group to read.\n\nWe are thrilled to offer one scholarship to a single parent. In your cover letter\, please indicate if you would like to be considered for this scholarship. We kindly ask that those who are able to register for the workshop without scholarship assistance refrain from applying for the scholarship. The scholarship will be available once we have met the required threshold for students in the class. \nAcceptance into the workshop is required before registering. \n\nAbout Book Farm @ The Writer’s Center\nThe Writer’s Center hosts a series of workshops for serious writers to complete book-length projects\, generate new work for publication\, or master the elements of craft within a specific genre. You’ll work with an acclaimed author\, guiding you through 4-12 months of lessons\, workshops\, and revisions. Our instructors are all accomplished educators with a track record of student success. Limited enrollment with rolling admission up to the application deadline\, so apply right away to secure your spot! \nAll Book Farm participants receive an exclusive tote bag\, a craft book recommended by the instructor\, and a $100 gift certificate good toward future TWC workshops. Participants also receive exclusive access to The Writer’s Center staff\, all of whom are accomplished writers with extensive experience in editing and publishing.
URL:https://writer.org/event/one-year-to-your-ya-novel-w-betsy-cornwell/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Adults Write for Children,All Levels,Fiction,Kid Lit,Workshop,Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://writer.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/one-year-to-your-ya-novel-1880-x-1576-px-3.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260923T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261111T213000
DTSTAMP:20260901T214547Z
CREATED:20260814T210304Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260901T214547Z
UID:10005368-1790190000-1794432600@writer.org
SUMMARY:The Extreme Novelist
DESCRIPTION:Discover how to write your novel no matter how busy your life feels.\nCan’t find the time/energy/inspiration to get your novel written? This popular course\, developed by the author of the book by the same name\, will help you complete a rough draft in record time. During the 8 weeks of the course\, students will receive encouraging guidance from professional writing coach Kathryn Johnson. Each author will commit to an aggressive writing schedule and learn the tricks pros use to create a productive working environment and meet their deadlines\, despite life’s distractions. Each class will include accountability and progress reports from each student\, live troubleshooting discussions\, a brief lecture on a key skill of fiction writing\, and the opportunity to submit a portion of the students’ works-in-progress to the instructor for individual feedback and guidance. (Note: This is not a work-shopping course. Further information will be sent to registered students\, in advance of the first class.) \n\nLive video conference: This workshop will be held via our online video conferencing platform\, Zoom. You can view brief tutorials on using the platform here. On the start date or the day before\, participants will receive an email with login info (please check your spam if you don’t see it). \n\nIn this workshop you’ll learn:\n\nTime Management\nStructure Concepts\nPacing\nDeveloping writing stamina\nPlot Development\n\nTime requirements\n\nStudents will be expected to write every day\, eventually working toward 90 minutes with the instructor’s guidance.\n\nMaterials\n\nAll reading materials will be provided.\n\nWho should take this workshop?\n\nNovelists wishing to break writer’s block\, master fiction techniques\, learn time management techniques for authors\, and work toward commercial publication of their novels.\n\n\nIf you need an accommodation for this workshop\, please contact us at access@writer.org. We will attempt to fulfill all requests\, but advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility services.
URL:https://writer.org/event/the-extreme-novelist-7/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:8 Sessions,Fiction,Intermediate/Advanced Level,Workshop,Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://writer.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Writing-Pencil-Sharper.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260928T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261130T180000
DTSTAMP:20260903T170230Z
CREATED:20260814T210303Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260903T170230Z
UID:10005364-1790611200-1796061600@writer.org
SUMMARY:Finish Your Poetry Book
DESCRIPTION:Turn your pile of poems into a publishable book or chapbook.\nWhether you have just started your manuscript\, or have made significant progress\, this course will help you get over the finish line. We’ll learn how to structure the book in a way that adds layers of meaning to the poems within\, generate new work to fill in the structure\, and hone poems until they are book-ready. To finish\, students will revise the book as a whole and make a publication plan. \n\nLive video conference: This workshop will be held via our online video conferencing platform\, Zoom. You can view brief tutorials on using the platform here. On the start date or the day before\, participants will receive an email with login info (please check your spam if you don’t see it). \n\nIn this workshop you’ll learn:\n\n Craft an arc (or anti-arc) for your book\nGenerate 8-10 new poems and develop strategies for generating more\nRevise and reimagine poems to make them book-ready\nCreate a submissions plan for your book manuscript\n\nTime requirements\n\n2-4 hours per week outside of class\n\nMaterials\n\nVirginia State Colony for Epileptics and Feeble-Minded\, by Molly McCully Brown\nBestiary by Donika Kelly\nAriel: The Restored Edition by Sylvia Plath\nBorderland Apocrypha by Anthony Cody\n\nAdditional optional texts depending on student’s chosen direction (list provided) \n\nIf you need an accommodation for this workshop\, please contact us at access@writer.org. We will attempt to fulfill all requests\, but advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility services.
URL:https://writer.org/event/finish-your-poetry-book/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:10 Sessions,Intermediate/Advanced Level,Poetry,Workshop,Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://writer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Writing-Pen-Notebooks.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261001T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261119T203000
DTSTAMP:20260917T164932Z
CREATED:20260814T210306Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260917T164932Z
UID:10005373-1790879400-1795120200@writer.org
SUMMARY:Creating & Writing Your Own TV Pilot
DESCRIPTION:One of only a few classes across the country like this; Live and taught by a working writer/producer with many years of television credits.\nThis workshop is an example of a mini-writers room. Lots of give & take and positive feedback. A true collaborative environment. \n\nLive video conference: This workshop will be held via our online video conferencing platform\, Zoom. You can view brief tutorials on using the platform here. On the start date or the day before\, participants will receive an email with login info (please check your spam if you don’t see it). \n\nIn this workshop you’ll learn:\n\nCharacter development\nThe importance of your first script as a calling card\nHow to find an agent and get your script read\nWho should you be writing for\nWho does what job on a television series\nThe outlets for new shows and new ideas\nDeveloping your idea\nThe best way to write for you\nThe Writers’ Room\nCollaboration processes\nOverview of winning past and current television show scripts\nFeedback on your current concepts\, outline\, scenes and scripts\n\nTime requirements\n\nTime to write (from 5 mn. to 5 hours) depending how fast you can type and what you hope to say!\n\nMaterials\n\nAll reading materials will be provided.\n\nWho should take this workshop?\n\nAnyone with a desire to learn everything about today’s’ television industry and how to create and write for the industry.\n\n\nIf you need an accommodation for this workshop\, please contact us at access@writer.org. We will attempt to fulfill all requests\, but advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility services.
URL:https://writer.org/event/creating-writing-your-own-tv-pilot/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:8 Sessions,All Levels,Stage and Screen,Workshop,Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://writer.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Writing-Keyboard.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261004T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261108T160000
DTSTAMP:20260917T171933Z
CREATED:20260814T210307Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260917T171933Z
UID:10005378-1791122400-1794153600@writer.org
SUMMARY:Lyrical Memoir Writing
DESCRIPTION:Explore how to access subconscious thought and emotion to turn everyday moments into memoir.\nHow do we turn the fragments of memory into writing that resonates? In this workshop guided by award-winning poet Chioma Urama\, you’ll learn the techniques of lyrical memoir writing—using image\, rhythm\, and voice to shape personal experience into powerful narratives. Through guided exercises and discussion\, we’ll explore how to access subconscious thought and emotion\, and how to find the deeper story hidden in everyday moments. With in-class prompts\, shared readings\, guided reflection\, and a workshop\, you’ll practice transforming raw memory into evocative writing that moves both you and your reader. You’ll leave with 2-3 new pieces of writing\, a workshopped lyric essay\, and inspiration to continue exploring your inner landscape. \n\nLive video conference: This workshop will be held via our online video conferencing platform\, Zoom. You can view brief tutorials on using the platform here. On the start date or the day before\, participants will receive an email with login info (please check your spam if you don’t see it). \n\nIn this workshop you’ll learn:\n\nTechniques to engage the subconscious mind and flesh out a memory\nCrafting compelling narratives drawn from lived experience\nWhat creates lyrical writing\nAssociative vs linear natrative\nHow to craft a lyrical essay from start to finis\n\nTime requirements\n\n1-2 hours per week of reading and writing outside of our sessions\n\nMaterials\n\nAll reading materials will be provided.\n\nWho should take this workshop?\n\nDesigned for both novice and experienced writers\, this workshop is for anyone eager to uncover the stories hidden within memory. Participants may be interested in exploring their inner world\, finding new language for emotion\, or experimenting with more lyrical approaches to prose. If you’re drawn to writing that feels both intimate and masterful\, this workshop will meet you where you are and invite you deeper.\n\n\nIf you need an accommodation for this workshop\, please contact us at access@writer.org. We will attempt to fulfill all requests\, but advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility services.
URL:https://writer.org/event/lyrical-memoir-writing-2/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:6 Sessions,All Levels,Nonfiction,Workshop,Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://writer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Writing-Pen-Dramatic.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261006T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20270727T210000
DTSTAMP:20260827T184900Z
CREATED:20260713T200952Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260827T184900Z
UID:10005317-1791313200-1816722000@writer.org
SUMMARY:Your Narrative\, Your Year w/ Edgar Gomez
DESCRIPTION:Write your memoir with award-winning author Edgar Gomez!\nIn this intensive ten-month course\, you will learn about the art of creative nonfiction and be given the tools to ready your memoir or memoir-in-essays for publication. \n\nWatch the Virtual Info Session\nMeet Edgar Gomez\, instructor for our yearlong memoir workshop\, and have all your questions about the program answered! \n \n\nWhat to expect:\nWe will begin our time together with discussions about essential craft elements\, such as structure\, voice\, audience\, setting\, characterization\, navigating time\, and weaving in research.  We’ll have lively conversations about ethics\, including approaches to writing about people you love (and don’t love…) and what responsibilities we have to our readers. \nThen\, we will workshop your stories\, spending time considering your larger projects as well as your specific goals as a writer. I will give you concrete\, actionable feedback to guide your future revisions and help you to create a sustainable writing practice for yourself. \nI believe learning about the business side of publishing is important\, so along the way\, I will invite guests in the field\, from award-winning writers and editors\, who can offer you advice based on their own experiences in publishing. I will also address any questions you have about writing book proposals\, querying agents\, and pitching your stories to magazines\, using real examples from book proposals and pitches that have led to deals. \nBy the end of this intensive\, you will leave with stories workshopped multiple times\, a growing community of writers\, and an understanding of what next steps to take to get your memoir out in the world. \n\nSchedule\nThis class will meet virtually twice a month on Tuesdays\, for 20 total sessions. Workshop dates run from October 6\, 2026 – July 27\, 2027\,  7pm–9pm ET. \nOct. 6\nOct. 20 \nNov. 3\nNov. 17 \nDec. 1\nDec. 15 \nJan. 5\nJan. 19 \nFeb. 2\nFeb. 16 \nMarch 2\nMarch 16 \nApril 6\nApril 20 \nMay 4\nMay 18 \nJune 8\nJune 22 \nJuly 13\nJuly 27 \n\n1:1 Mentoring\nAll workshops will be held over Zoom\, with additional opportunities to meet 1:1 with Edgar upon request. All enrolled students will have the option to schedule an individual follow-up meeting (1 hour) with Edgar approximately 6 months after the conclusion of the workshop. \n\nTestimonials from Past Students\n“I really wasn’t sure of myself walking into the class. But Edgar’s encouragement really gave me the go-ahead to just get my ideas out on the page\, in all their candid messiness\, in a way that I haven’t been able to accomplish otherwise…. I’m so excited to keep returning to the tools I picked up in class—I already know they’re gonna stick around for the long-haul!” —Patrick Mullen-Coyoy\, poet and former student \n“Taking a memoir class with Edgar was truly transformative for me. Their class was my first time taking my nonfiction writing seriously\, and I credit his teaching as giving me both the confidence and the skills to turn the essay I worked on with my cohort into an entire book of personal essays…. And even years later\, Edgar has continued to offer me guidance\, mentorship\, and support. I would highly recommend Edgar to anyone–they are a rare combination of deep expertise and boundless generosity. I wouldn’t be the writer I am today without this class and his guidance.” —Chaelee Dalton\, author of Mother Tongue \n\nTo Apply\nApplication Deadline: Monday\, September 21\, 2026 \nSubmit a writing sample of 10-20 pages (double-spaced\, Times New Roman font) and 1-2 paragraphs detailing your writing goals\, intentions\, and questions. You may also choose to include a one-page résumé or CV if you have one. Send your submission to emily.holland@writer.org by September 21\, 2026. \nAcceptance into the workshop is required before registering. \n\nAbout Book Farm @ The Writer’s Center\nThe Writer’s Center hosts a series of workshops for serious writers to complete book-length projects\, generate new work for publication\, or master the elements of craft within a specific genre. You’ll work with an acclaimed author\, guiding you through 4-12 months of lessons\, workshops\, and revisions. Our instructors are all accomplished educators with a track record of student success. Limited enrollment with rolling admission up to the application deadline\, so apply right away to secure your spot! \nAll Book Farm participants receive an exclusive tote bag\, a craft book recommended by the instructor\, and a $100 gift certificate good toward future TWC workshops. Participants also receive exclusive access to The Writer’s Center staff\, all of whom are accomplished writers with extensive experience in editing and publishing.
URL:https://writer.org/event/your-narrative-your-year-w-edgar-gomez/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:All Levels,Master Level,Nonfiction,Workshop,Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://writer.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Your-Narrative-Your-Year-1880-x-1576-px-4.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261010T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261212T130000
DTSTAMP:20260910T135341Z
CREATED:20260814T210256Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260910T135341Z
UID:10005345-1791628200-1797080400@writer.org
SUMMARY:Preparing Your Work for Submission
DESCRIPTION:Learn how to revise your manuscript with confidence\, recognize when it is truly ready for submission\, and navigate the path from polished draft to publication with agents\, query letters\, and other routes to getting your work into the world.\nEach week\, participants will focus on a different stage of the revision and publishing process\, including structural and line-level revision strategies\, identifying common problems in manuscripts\, understanding the role of agents and editors\, and exploring different paths to publication. The workshop will combine discussion of craft principles\, practical publishing guidance\, and analysis of participant work in a supportive\, workshop-based setting. By the end of the course\, participants will have a clearer\, more polished manuscript excerpt\, a realistic understanding of its readiness for submission\, and a practical toolkit for querying agents and navigating publication options with greater confidence. Participants should submit a draft of a short story or novel excerpt up to 3000 words to the first class. \n\nLive video conference: This workshop will be held via our online video conferencing platform\, Zoom. You can view brief tutorials on using the platform here. On the start date or the day before\, participants will receive an email with login info (please check your spam if you don’t see it). \n\nIn this workshop you’ll learn:\n\nRevision Strategies for Structure & Story Shape (identifying what to cut\, expand\, and reorder for maximum narrative impact)\nLine-Level Editing & Style Refinement (strengthening voice\, clarity\, imagery\, and rhythm in prose)\nDiagnosing Manuscript Problems (common issues in pacing\, character development\, stakes\, and cohesion—and how to fix them)\nPublication Pathways & Industry Navigation (understanding agents\, editors\, presses\, and different routes to publication)\nQuery Letters & Submission Readiness (how to evaluate when a manuscript is ready and how to pitch it effectively to agents and publishers)\n\nTime requirements\n\napproximately about 3hrs\n\nMaterials\n\nAll reading materials will be provided.\n\nWho should take this workshop?\n\nAny writer who hopes to publish his or her work.\n\n\nIf you need an accommodation for this workshop\, please contact us at access@writer.org. We will attempt to fulfill all requests\, but advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility services.
URL:https://writer.org/event/preparing-your-work-for-submission/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:10 Sessions,Fiction,Intermediate/Advanced Level,Workshop,Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://writer.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Writing-Open-Book.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261020T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261215T130000
DTSTAMP:20260929T190527Z
CREATED:20260814T210313Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260929T190527Z
UID:10005397-1792492200-1797339600@writer.org
SUMMARY:Boot Camp for Writers
DESCRIPTION:Tone\, strengthen\, and flex your writing muscles.\nEach session of Boot Camp for Writers will begin with a prompt followed by writing time. Participants will have the opportunity to share and discuss their work as well as receive in-class feedback. The workshop is designed so that participants will have the start of six new pieces by the end of class. Former Boot Camp participants are always (and happily) welcome. Note: No meeting November 3 and 24. \n\nLive video conference: This workshop will be held via our online video conferencing platform\, Zoom. You can view brief tutorials on using the platform here. On the start date or the day before\, participants will receive an email with login info (please check your spam if you don’t see it). \n\nIn this workshop you’ll learn:\n\nEffective beginnings\nCreative prose and lyrical storytelling\nStrong conclusions\nStructure\nDeepening story\nBuilding Writing Community\n\nTime requirements\n\nN/A\n\nMaterials\n\nAll reading materials will be provided.\n\nWho should take this workshop?\n\nThis workshop is designed for writers at all level and stages who want to take their creative endurance to the next level.\n\n\nIf you need an accommodation for this workshop\, please contact us at access@writer.org. We will attempt to fulfill all requests\, but advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility services.
URL:https://writer.org/event/boot-camp-for-writers-5/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:7 Sessions,All Levels,Mixed Genre,Workshop,Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://writer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Writing-Press.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261021T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20270728T210000
DTSTAMP:20261019T215929Z
CREATED:20260709T203107Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261019T215929Z
UID:10005315-1792609200-1816808400@writer.org
SUMMARY:The Art of the Short Story w/ Rita Bullwinkel
DESCRIPTION:Write new short stories with award-winning author and editor Rita Bullwinkel!\nWriting is a unique art medium in that it is both made and\, generally\, consumed in isolation. Through the space of the writers’ workshop\, an author can escape the isolation in which they made their work\, understand their work from a consciousness other than their own\, and procure insight into how to further their creative projects into their fullest\, most complex and potent\, forms. In this year-long short story intensive\, students will read and discuss the work of their peers\, and have the opportunity to submit four of their own short stories for group discussion. Students will also read the work of contemporary short story writers alongside the work of their peers in order to identify how their own work\, and the work of their peers\, is situated within the contemporary literary landscape.  \n\nWho is this course for?\nThis course is for anyone who loves reading and writing short stories. If you are working on a short story collection: fantastic. If you are just beginning\, and have only a few drafted stories under your belt\, that is great\, too. It is likely best if you come to the first class with at least one complete short short you are interested in workshopping. Over the course of the year you will workshop four short stories. It is my great hope that you will find the workshop generative\, and that our conversations will draw you to the page to start new work. \n\nLearning Outcomes:\n\nWrite and workshop four short stories\nMeaningfully engage with the work of one’s peers through verbal feedback\nGain a comprehensive understanding of the contemporary literary landscape\nSituate one’s own creative practice within the contemporary literary landscape\n\n\nRequired Books:\n\nMcSweeney’s Quarterly Issue 79\nMcSweeney’s Quarterly Issue 80\nMcSweeney’s Quarterly Issue 81\nMcSweeney’s Quarterly Issue 82\nMcSweeney’s Quarterly Issue 83\nMcSweeney’s Quarterly Issue 84\n\nNote: I\, the instructor\, am the editor of McSweeney’s Quarterly\, a literary magazine that primarily publishes short stories. Over the course of the year each student will be asked to select and present on one short story of their choosing from the above issues. More details about this aspect of the class will be provided on the first day of instruction. \n\nWorkshop Submissions:\nYou will submit four short stories over the course of the year. Submissions should be between 10 and 20 pages\, Times New Roman\, double spaced. Your submission should be a self-contained story\, or a series of self contained stories. We will not be looking at excerpts in this workshop. If your submission is slightly longer or shorter than these guidelines\, please discuss with me ahead of submitting. Include your last name and page numbers on all pages. Your submissions are due by upload to our class google drive the week before your submission is scheduled to be discussed. We cannot workshop stories that are turned in late. Please do not use one of your four submission opportunities to submit a revision of a story that has been previously workshopped. \nThe Questioning:\nOur group discussions of student work will utilize a pedagogical method called the questioning\, which was first outlined by Jesse Ball in his craft book Notes on My Dunce Cap. In our group discussions I\, the instructor\, and all students whose work is not being discussed\, will ask the author questions about their work. We may only ask the author questions. The only person allowed to make declarative statements is the author. If someone in the class other than the author uses a declarative sentence such as\, “I liked this part” or “this was confusing” I will ask the student to rephrase their sentiment to the author as a question. The author will speak freely. The author need not know the answers to all of the questions posed to them. Knowing the limits of their knowledge of their own narrative is useful information. This method of questioning the author about their work\, and the experience the author gains from having to verbally formulate answers to these questions\, openly leads the author to understanding and viewing their work from a perspective other than their own. It also frees the conversation from the superficial “good/bad” binary and provides a more nuanced and generative and in depth engagement with the work. For the last ten minutes of each group discussion the author will have an opportunity to ask their peers questions about any content of the work that they feel has not already been addressed. During this section of workshop anyone may use declarative sentences. \n\nSchedule\nThis class will meet virtually every other Wednesday\, with brief winter and spring breaks. Workshop dates run from October 21\, 2026 – July 28\, 2027\, 7pm-9pm EST (4pm-6pm PST). \n\nOctober 21st\nNovember 4th\nNovember 18th\nDecember 2nd\nDecember 16th\n\nWINTER HOLIDAY BREAK \n\nJanuary 6th\nJanuary 20th\nFebruary 3rd\nFebruary 17th\nMarch 3rd\n\nSPRING BREAK \n\nMarch 24th\nApril 7th\nApril 21st\nMay 5th\nMay 19th\nJune 2nd\nJune 16th\nJune 30th\nJuly 14th\nJuly 28th\n\nAttendance Policy:  \nThree unexcused absences will result in being dropped from the course. \n\n1:1 Mentoring\n1:1 meetings will occur with each student twice during the year: one after the student’s second story is workshopped\, and one after the student’s fourth and final story is workshopped.  \n\nTo Apply\nApplication Deadline: Monday\, October 5\, 2026 \nAdmissions are on a rolling basis. Participants are encouraged to apply early. Acceptance into the workshop is required before registering. To apply to the program please submit: \n\nA 10 to 20 page writing sample (can be any genre).\nA brief cover letter (no more than 250 words) explaining why you want to take this class.\nA list of 10 short stories that you love. Please format the list as simple bullet points\, with just the title and the author noted. Please do not elaborate on why you love the stories.\nPlease sign and date the following statement: “I\, _____________\, understand that it is not possible to “collaborate” with a word prediction machine and hereby attest that no AI or LLMs were or will be used in any part of my workshop submissions.”\n\nPlease send your application to emily.holland@writer.org. \nAcceptance into the workshop is required before registering. \n\nAbout Book Farm @ The Writer’s Center\nThe Writer’s Center hosts a series of workshops for serious writers to complete book-length projects\, generate new work for publication\, or master the elements of craft within a specific genre. You’ll work with an acclaimed author\, guiding you through 4-12 months of lessons\, workshops\, and revisions. Our instructors are all accomplished educators with a track record of student success. Limited enrollment with rolling admission up to the application deadline\, so apply right away to secure your spot! \nAll Book Farm participants receive an exclusive tote bag\, a craft book recommended by the instructor\, and a $100 gift certificate good toward future TWC workshops. Participants also receive exclusive access to The Writer’s Center staff\, all of whom are accomplished writers with extensive experience in editing and publishing.
URL:https://writer.org/event/the-art-of-the-short-story-w-rita-bullwinkel/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:All Levels,Fiction,Master Level,Workshop,Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://writer.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/The-art-of-the-short-story-1880-x-1576-px-3.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261027T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261117T160000
DTSTAMP:20260929T191754Z
CREATED:20260814T210314Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260929T191754Z
UID:10005402-1793106000-1794931200@writer.org
SUMMARY:Advanced Nonfiction
DESCRIPTION:Go beyond the basics with your narrative nonfiction!\nThis advanced class will go beyond the basics of nonfiction writing to provide an extra focus on fleshing out characters\, incorporating a narrative voice\, and developing more sophisticated tools for narrative storytelling. \n\nLive video conference: This workshop will be held via our online video conferencing platform\, Zoom. You can view brief tutorials on using the platform here. On the start date or the day before\, participants will receive an email with login info (please check your spam if you don’t see it). \n\nIf you need an accommodation for this workshop\, please contact us at access@writer.org. We will attempt to fulfill all requests\, but advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility services.
URL:https://writer.org/event/advanced-nonfiction-2/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:4 Sessions,Advanced Level,Nonfiction,Workshop,Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://writer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Writing-Typewriter-Keys-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261028T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261118T203000
DTSTAMP:20260929T192108Z
CREATED:20260814T210315Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260929T192108Z
UID:10005404-1793214000-1795033800@writer.org
SUMMARY:Memoir Tools from Start to Finish
DESCRIPTION:Create a roadmap for your memoir project\nWhether you are writing short pieces or are embarking on a full-length memoir\, you need a roadmap. Over the course of four weeks\, we will cover the tools you need to write a memoir from start to finish. We will discuss methods for starting a piece and getting content on the page. We’ll explore memoir structures and the relationship of form and content. We will learn editing techniques on both the sentence and big picture levels. Finally\, we will talk about publishing options for memoir projects large and small. Participants will leave with the tools and confidence to start and complete a memoir project. \n\nLive video conference: This workshop will be held via our online video conferencing platform\, Zoom. You can view brief tutorials on using the platform here. On the start date or the day before\, participants will receive an email with login info (please check your spam if you don’t see it). \n\nIn this workshop you’ll learn:\n\nMethods for getting words on the page\nUnderstanding memoir structures\nMicro and macro editing techniques\nMemoir publication options\n\nTime requirements\n\nNone\n\nMaterials\n\nAll reading materials will be provided.\n\n\nIf you need an accommodation for this workshop\, please contact us at access@writer.org. We will attempt to fulfill all requests\, but advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility services.
URL:https://writer.org/event/memoir-tools-from-start-to-finish/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:4 Sessions,Beginner/Intermediate Level,Nonfiction,Workshop,Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://writer.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Writing-Pencil-Sharper.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261030
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261219
DTSTAMP:20261017T171101Z
CREATED:20260814T210316Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261017T171101Z
UID:10005406-1793318400-1797638399@writer.org
SUMMARY:Intermediate Novel Writing: The 8 Cs (Wet Ink)
DESCRIPTION:Let’s finish that novel you started!\nAre you serious about writing a novel but struggling? This intermediate course will examine the eight fundamental elements of the novel to help you find the strengths and weaknesses of your work-in-progress. From Concept to Conclusion\, we will study the key components of a novel\, with generative and evaluative exercises along the way. Written lessons\, curated online resources\, and targeted exercises (along with instructor and peer feedback) will help guide you as you continue to draft your novel. (Note: This course is a good follow-up to Tammy Greenwood’s Intro to the Novel workshop.) \n\nLearn at your own pace: This workshop will take place over Wet Ink\, which is an asynchronous creative writing platform. The instructor will post a lesson and assignment at the beginning of each week\, and participants can log in and read the lessons/post assignments/comment on other classmates’ work at their convenience. Shortly before the start date\, participants will receive an invite from Wet Ink to create their login info and access the class. Please check your spam if you don’t see it. \n\nIn this workshop you’ll:\n\nConcept\nCharacter\nCircumstances\nConflict\nComplications\nCrisis\nClimax\nConclusion\n\nTime requirements\n\nN/A\n\nMaterials\n\nN/A\n\nWho should take this workshop?\n\nThis workshop is for writers looking to deepen their understanding of the major components of novel-writing.\n\n\nIf you need an accommodation for this workshop\, please contact us at access@writer.org. We will attempt to fulfill all requests\, but advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility services.
URL:https://writer.org/event/wet-ink-intermediate-novel-writing-the-8-cs/
LOCATION:Wet Ink
CATEGORIES:8 Sessions,Fiction,Intermediate/Advanced Level,Wet Ink,Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://writer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Writing-Back-Pencil.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261101T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261129T133000
DTSTAMP:20261018T161711Z
CREATED:20260814T210316Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261018T161711Z
UID:10005408-1793530800-1795959000@writer.org
SUMMARY:Whole-Brain Poetry
DESCRIPTION:Learn how our brains are wired for poetry\, and use that knowledge to enrich your writing.\n“Whole-Brain Poetry” is an opportunity to explore some of the many ways poetry interacts with the brain\, and to enrich your writing with that knowledge. This includes but goes beyond the use of metaphor. Through writing exercises\, close examination of time-honored and recent poems\, workshopping of participant poems\, and brief reading assignments\, we will examine the neurology and psychology of poetry\, the relationship between time and memory\, how science has influenced well-known poets\, how poetry can help to heal trauma and prevent PTSD\, and more. \n\nLive video conference: This workshop will be held via our online video conferencing platform\, Zoom. You can view brief tutorials on using the platform here. On the start date or the day before\, participants will receive an email with login info (please check your spam if you don’t see it). \n\nIn this workshop you’ll learn:\n\nHow metaphor is connected to learning and empathy\nConnections between time and memory\nNeurology and psychology of poetry\nHow meter and rhyme interact with the brain\nFeedback on participant poems\n\nTime requirements\n\nUp to one hour per week\n\nMaterials\n\nAll reading materials will be provided.\n\n\nIf you need an accommodation for this workshop\, please contact us at access@writer.org. We will attempt to fulfill all requests\, but advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility services.
URL:https://writer.org/event/whole-brain-poetry-5/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:5 Sessions,All Levels,Poetry,Workshop,Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://writer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Writing-Parchment-Yellow.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261107T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261219T123000
DTSTAMP:20261018T163002Z
CREATED:20260814T210318Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261018T163002Z
UID:10005411-1794047400-1797683400@writer.org
SUMMARY:Poetry Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Explore the art and craft of poetry!\nThis workshop will offer a lecture each week\, followed by workshopping 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. \n\nLive video conference: This workshop will be held via our online video conferencing platform\, Zoom. You can view brief tutorials on using the platform here. On the start date or the day before\, participants will receive an email with login info (please check your spam if you don’t see it). \n\nIn this workshop you’ll learn:\n\nmetaphor\nparadox\nline breaks\nsyntax\nclosure\nepiphany\n\nTime requirements\n\n3-4 hours minimum\n\nMaterials\n\nRilke’s Letters to a Young Poet\, How to Fall in Love with Poetry by Edward Hirsch\, any anthology of American/ British poetry from the 17th century to contemporary canonical poetry. I will also refer to my own books and articles and not strongly recommend or require students to read or purchase them.\n\nWho should take this workshop?\n\nAnyone who has read enough poetry to want to write like a poet\, anyone who feels loss more deeply than other people (what Wordsworth said)\, anyone who happens happens to be respondent to the world’s mysteries\, and is open to going anywhere the poem takes them.\n\n\nIf you need an accommodation for this workshop\, please contact us at access@writer.org. We will attempt to fulfill all requests\, but advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility services.
URL:https://writer.org/event/poetry-workshop/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:7 Sessions,All Levels,Poetry,Workshop,Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://writer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Writing-in-Notebook.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261107T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261107T210000
DTSTAMP:20261020T191629Z
CREATED:20260812T193805Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261020T191629Z
UID:10005337-1794076200-1794085200@writer.org
SUMMARY:50th Anniversary Celebration
DESCRIPTION:This year The Writer’s Center turns 50!\nNo 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. \nTogether\, we’ll look back on our history with a building-wide scavenger hunt and a reading from each decade of the organization\, featuring Richard Peabody\, Rose Solari\, E. Ethelbert Miller\, Angie Kim\, Marisa Kashino\, and Xochi Quetzali Cartland. \nWith a buffet\, books\, and booze\, we’ll reminisce on the community that made possible our past fifty years. \nCan’t attend? Donations in celebration of our Golden Year may be made using the following link » \nReaching fifty years is an outstanding achievement\, but heck\, we’re just getting started. \n\nIf you need an accommodation for this event\, please contact us at access@writer.org. We will attempt to fulfill all requests\, but advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility services. \n\nEnjoying our free events? Help us offer more programs to support writers with a $10 donation »
URL:https://writer.org/event/50th-anniversary/
LOCATION:The Writer’s Center\, 4508 Walsh Street\, Bethesda\, MD\, 20815\, United States
CATEGORIES:Event
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261108T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261108T160000
DTSTAMP:20261018T162235Z
CREATED:20260814T210318Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261018T162235Z
UID:10005412-1794142800-1794153600@writer.org
SUMMARY:How to End a Poem
DESCRIPTION:You’ve been working on a poem for weeks. What’s the best way to end it?\nThere 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. \n\nLive video conference: This workshop will be held via our online video conferencing platform\, Zoom. You can view brief tutorials on using the platform here. On the start date or the day before\, participants will receive an email with login info (please check your spam if you don’t see it). \n\nIn this workshop you’ll learn:\n\nTraditional approaches to ending a poem;\nVariations on traditional strategies that have worked well for poets;\n“Anti-closure” is and why it is so popular;\nSpecific ending strategies to avoid.\n\nTime requirements\n\nN/A\n\nMaterials\n\nAll reading materials will be provided.\n\nWho should take this workshop?\n\nBoth beginning and experienced poets will benefit by examining a variety of approaches to closure.\n\n\nIf you need an accommodation for this workshop\, please contact us at access@writer.org. We will attempt to fulfill all requests\, but advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility services.
URL:https://writer.org/event/how-to-end-a-poem/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:1 Session,All Levels,Poetry,Workshop,Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://writer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Writing-Back-Pencil.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261109T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261109T203000
DTSTAMP:20261017T144100Z
CREATED:20260904T181759Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261017T144100Z
UID:10005440-1794249000-1794256200@writer.org
SUMMARY:Self-Publishing 101
DESCRIPTION:Ever wanted to learn more about the self-publishing process? Then this workshop might be the right fit for you!\nDiscover 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 memorable novel. Please come prepared with questions which will be discussed near the end. \n\nLive video conference: This workshop will be held via our online video conferencing platform\, Zoom. You can view brief tutorials on using the platform here. On the start date or the day before\, participants will receive an email with login info (please check your spam if you don’t see it). \n\nIn this workshop you’ll learn:\n\nEditing tips\nIntellectual property tools\nCopyright details\nPublications pointers\n\nTime requirements\n\nN/A\n\nMaterials\n\nAll reading materials will be provided.\n\nWho should take this workshop?\n\nIndividuals interested in publishing their own novel or curious about the self-publishing realm.\n\n\nIf you need an accommodation for this workshop\, please contact us at access@writer.org. We will attempt to fulfill all requests\, but advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility services.
URL:https://writer.org/event/self-publishing-101-2/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:1 Session,Beginner Level,Publishing,Workshop,Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://writer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Writing-Open-Book-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261110T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261110T203000
DTSTAMP:20260924T204452Z
CREATED:20260924T201520Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260924T204452Z
UID:10005449-1794337200-1794342600@writer.org
SUMMARY:John DeDakis Book Launch
DESCRIPTION: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. \nFREE & open to the public. RSVP below. \n\nJohn DeDakis is a former editor on CNN’s “The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer.” DeDakis\, a former White House correspondent\, is the author of six traditionally published novels in the award-winning Lark Chadwick mystery-suspense-thriller series. DeDakis is a motivational speaker\, podcaster\, one-on-one writing coach\, manuscript editor\, and regularly teaches novel and memoir writing at The Writer’s Center\, and other literary centers\, bookstores\, and writers’ conferences nationwide and abroad. He is also a Grief Educator\, certified by world-renowned grief expert David Kessler of Grief.com. John’s newest book is Plot Twists: A Memoir on Writing and Living. Website: www.johndedakis.com \nAustin S. Camacho is the author of eight Hannibal Jones mysteries\, five Stark and O’Brien international thrillers\, the detective novel Beyond Blue\, and the urban thrillers True Target and Mirror Target. His short stories have been featured in several anthologies and he is featured in African American Mystery Writers: A Historical and Thematic Study\, is a past president of the Maryland Writers Association\, and one of the creators of the Creatures\, Crimes & Creativity Con. \n\nAbout Plot Twists: A Memoir on Writing and Living\nIn Plot Twists: A Memoir on Writing and Living\, Writer’s Center teaching artist\, writing coach\, award-winning novelist\, and former CNN editor John DeDakis delivers a candid coming-of-age memoir shaped by the upheaval of the 1960s when assassinations\, the Vietnam War\, and a nation in turmoil rerouted his life. Along the way\, DeDakis interviews Alfred Hitchcock\, covers Ronald Reagan\, and works beside Wolf Blitzer—while privately grappling with spiritual doubt\, his sister’s suicide\, and the devastating loss of his youngest son to addiction. In unflinching prose\, DeDakis traces his evolution from hedonistic impulsivity to hard-won integrity. \n\nIf you need an accommodation for this event\, please contact us at access@writer.org. We will attempt to fulfill all requests\, but advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility services. \n\nEnjoying our free events? Help us offer more programs to support writers with a $10 donation »
URL:https://writer.org/event/john-dedakis/
LOCATION:The Writer’s Center\, 4508 Walsh Street\, Bethesda\, MD\, 20815\, United States
CATEGORIES:Event
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261110T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261215T213000
DTSTAMP:20261018T162432Z
CREATED:20260814T210318Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261018T162432Z
UID:10005413-1794337200-1797370200@writer.org
SUMMARY:Crafting Flash Fiction
DESCRIPTION:Explore the art of *very* short stories!\nThis 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. \n\nLive video conference: This workshop will be held via our online video conferencing platform\, Zoom. You can view brief tutorials on using the platform here. On the start date or the day before\, participants will receive an email with login info (please check your spam if you don’t see it). \n\nIn this workshop you’ll learn:\n\nCharacter development\nShort form writing\nVoice\nVivid imagery\nPlot\nPrecise description\nWriting exercises\n\nTime requirements\n\n1 hour (to read peers’ stories and assigned published flash fiction)\n\nMaterials\n\nAll reading materials will be provided.\n\n\nIf you need an accommodation for this workshop\, please contact us at access@writer.org. We will attempt to fulfill all requests\, but advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility services.
URL:https://writer.org/event/crafting-flash-fiction/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:6 Sessions,All Levels,Fiction,Workshop,Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://writer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Writing-Fountain-Pen-Script.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261111T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261111T200000
DTSTAMP:20260922T161651Z
CREATED:20260908T145841Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260922T161651Z
UID:10005442-1794423600-1794427200@writer.org
SUMMARY:Poetry Book Club w/ Melanie McCabe!
DESCRIPTION: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. \nWe encourage you to order a copy of the book from your local\, independent bookseller or online » \nFREE & open to the public. RSVP below. \n\nMelanie McCabe is a writer of poems\, essays\, memoir\, and most recently\, fiction. She is a lifelong Virginian and was a high school English and creative writing teacher in Arlington for twenty-two years. Her debut novel\, Road Longer Than Memory\, was published by Oceanview Publishing on June 2\, 2026. Her latest book of poems\, All The Signs Were There\, won the Longleaf Poetry Prize. Her memoir\, His Other Life: Searching For My Father\, His First Wife\, and Tennessee Williams\, won the 2016 University of New Orleans Publishing Lab Prize and was published in the fall of 2017. Previous books of poems include: The Night Divers (Terrapin Books)\, What The Neighbors Know (FutureCycle Press) and History of the Body (David Robert Books.) Her essays have appeared in The Washington Post\, Reader’s Digest\, Shenandoah\, Cincinnati Review\, Sweet\, Forge Literary Magazine and elsewhere. \n\nAbout All The Signs Were There\n“To date\, there has been no bomb\,” writes Melanie McCabe in her gorgeously foreboding collection of poems\, All the Signs Were There. Here are overgrown vacant lots\, ants running in the walls\, shadowy relationships\, a “coastline of sharp and slice.” This is a powerful book of omens—and of the courage to live through them. —David Ebenbach\, author of What’s Left to Us by Evening \n“Feral is the name given to what’s wild/ by what isn’t\,” writes Melanie McCabe in this shimmering sequence that maps the heart’s bewitching cartography. Traveling through the lush landscapes of childhood and adolescence where fields reveal “the sudden stonehenge of a lone/gate\,” to the stormy world of adulthood where “[m]orning\, still beating\, is swallowed/mouse-whole down a snake\,” McCabe pays tribute to time’s uncanny passage. Here\, lovers clasp hands and plunge like “banished angels” from an “edge” they carved themselves\, while teenaged rivals reunite late in life\, carving out friendship\, forgiveness\, and healing. All the Signs Were There is filled with breathtaking insight and painterly vision.—Jane Satterfield\, author of The Badass Brontës \nOn behalf of all of us at Longleaf– and previous Longleaf Press Book Prize winners–who helped read and comment on hundreds of manuscripts\, I want to celebrate All the Signs Were There\, the intelligence and range of Melanie McCabe’s atmospheric poems and her unique and otherworldly ear for the language. We were riveted: “/the air that finds my lungs is chosen for its jade/ stillness. Each breath for its lull.” —Roger Weingarten\, Publisher\, Longleaf Press \n\nAbout Book Club\nThis is no run-of-the-mill book club. Visiting writers will read excerpts\, join the discussion\, and answer your questions about craft\, process\, the publishing industry\, and getting advice for our own writing! We’ll hang and eat snacks with the authors and escape your doomscrolling. \nPoetry Book Club will meet on Zoom every second Wednesday of the month with a new poet. \nFiction Book Club will meet every third Sunday of the month in person at The Writer’s Center with a new author. \nCome build community and read amazing books that the Big 5 didn’t have the sense to publish! \n\nIf you need an accommodation for this event\, please contact us at access@writer.org. We will attempt to fulfill all requests\, but advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility services. \n\nEnjoying our free events? Help us offer more programs to support writers with a $10 donation »
URL:https://writer.org/event/poetry-book-club-w-melanie-mccabe/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://writer.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Melanie-McCabe-Event-Header-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261111T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261111T210000
DTSTAMP:20251216T171816Z
CREATED:20251216T171816Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251216T171816Z
UID:10005135-1794423600-1794430800@writer.org
SUMMARY:Open Mic @ The Writer's Center
DESCRIPTION: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. \n\nSign-up starts at 6:45pm\, and readings begin promptly at 7pm.\nLimited to 20 readers\, so arrive early if you plan to read.\n\nSponsored by Poet Lore\, America’s oldest poetry magazine. \nFREE and open to the public. Please note that we no longer offer advance sign-up. \n\nIf you need an accommodation for this event\, please contact us at access@writer.org. We will attempt to fulfill all requests\, but advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility services. \n\nEnjoying our free events? Help us offer more programs to support writers with a $10 donation »
URL:https://writer.org/event/open-mic-nov2026/
LOCATION:The Writer’s Center\, 4508 Walsh Street\, Bethesda\, MD\, 20815\, United States
CATEGORIES:Event
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GEO:38.97949;-77.090791
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261112T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261112T200000
DTSTAMP:20261027T182121Z
CREATED:20260616T195346Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261027T182121Z
UID:10005305-1794510000-1794513600@writer.org
SUMMARY:Inner Loop Author's Corner w/ Shelagh Johnson!
DESCRIPTION: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. \nA History of Existing Life is The Inner Loop’s Author’s Corner spotlight. The Inner Loop cultivates and promotes the distinctive literary culture of Washington\, DC. Author’s Corner supports local authors’ independently published books by spotlighting them in community programming and collaborations. \nRSVP below to receive login information (our virtual events are held via Zoom). FREE and open to the public\, all times Eastern \nWe encourage you to order a copy of the book from your local\, independent bookseller or online from Bookshop.org » \n\nShelagh Powers Johnson teaches English and Creative Writing at Bowie State University and is the faculty editor of the university’s literary magazine\, The Torch. She received her MFA in Fiction from American University and is currently working on a PhD in English and Creative Writing. Her work has previously appeared in the Portland Review\, Night Train\, the Grace and Gravity Anthologies\, and Ghost Parachute\, among others. Her debut short story collection\, A History of Existing Life\, is coming out this August. You can view her TEDxTalk\, “Creative Writing: A Transformational Practice\,” on YouTube and find her at www.shelaghjohnson.com. \nMichael Don is the author of the story collection Partners and Strangers (Carnegie Mellon University Press)\, a finalist for the 2019 Foreword Indies Book of the Year Award in short fiction. His work has appeared or is forthcoming in journals such as The Threepenny Review\, Passages North\, Washington Square Review\, Puerto Del Sol\, and The Southampton Review. He is a professor at George Mason University and co-organizes the Fox City Lit reading series in Fairfax City\, Virginia. His second book is coming out with Cornerstone Press in 2028. \n\nAbout A History of Existing Life\n“The language in Shelagh Powers Johnson’s debut collection strikes the rare and perfect balance between understated and surprising. The characters in these stories span time periods and geographic location but are united by Johnson’s astute observation of brutality and heartbreak- but also the beauty and redemption-of the every day.” -Amanda Parrish Morgan\, author of Stroller\, named one of The New Yorker’s Best Books of 2022 \n“A History of Existing Life is filled with lush\, dark\, haunting\, and intricate prose and piercing observations. Old lovers briefly reunite. A woman’s paintings transform into a living dreamscape. Everyone reckons with their past. Johnson’s exquisite stories probe into the inner workings of relationships\, of parents who love and who betray and disappoint. Let this collection surprise and envelop you.” -Lauren D. Woods\, author of The Great Grown-Up Game of Make-Believe\, winner of the Autumn House Press 2024 Fiction Prize \n\nIf you need an accommodation for this event\, please contact us at access@writer.org. We will attempt to fulfill all requests\, but advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility services. \n\nEnjoying our free events? Help us offer more programs to support writers with a $10 donation »
URL:https://writer.org/event/inner-loop-shelagh-johnson/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://writer.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Shelagh-Johnson-Event-Header-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261114T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261114T120000
DTSTAMP:20261018T162621Z
CREATED:20260814T210319Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261018T162621Z
UID:10005415-1794650400-1794657600@writer.org
SUMMARY:How to Write Compelling Micro Memoir
DESCRIPTION:Learn to write your life story one moment at a time.\nWrite your life story as you lived it\, one moment at a time. This interactive workshop teaches writers to distill a moment of change\, conflict\, contradiction\, or mystery\, to its essence\, so that the impact on the writer resonates with the reader. We will examine inspiring published examples to learn how the writer moved and entertained us. Using the same tools with which we craft fiction\, this workshop is an excellent learning environment for both genres. We’ll conclude with a review of where to publish. \n\nLive video conference: This workshop will be held via our online video conferencing platform\, Zoom. You can view brief tutorials on using the platform here. On the start date or the day before\, participants will receive an email with login info (please check your spam if you don’t see it). \n\nIn this workshop you’ll:\n\nLearn what makes a story compelling.\nLearn to create tension.\nLearn how to show transformation\nLearn how to create a resonate ending.\n\nTime requirements\n\nN/A\n\nMaterials\n\nAll reading materials will be provided.\n\nWho should take this workshop?\n\nThis workshop is for writers interested in the personal essay and memoir\, who want to learn the power of the very small to excite\, move\, transform\, and entertain us.\n\n\nIf you need an accommodation for this workshop\, please contact us at access@writer.org. We will attempt to fulfill all requests\, but advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility services.
URL:https://writer.org/event/how-to-write-compelling-micro-memoir/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:1 Session,All Levels,Nonfiction,Workshop,Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://writer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Writing-in-Notebook-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261114T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261114T123000
DTSTAMP:20261018T162531Z
CREATED:20260814T210319Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261018T162531Z
UID:10005414-1794650400-1794659400@writer.org
SUMMARY:Mapping Strategies for Story Structure
DESCRIPTION:Explore questions\, mapping exercises\, tools\, and techniques to discover your story’s direction and how to get there.\nThere 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. \n\nLive video conference: This workshop will be held via our online video conferencing platform\, Zoom. You can view brief tutorials on using the platform here. On the start date or the day before\, participants will receive an email with login info (please check your spam if you don’t see it). \n\nIn this workshop you’ll learn:\n\nBuild flexible outlines that strengthen your plot\nClarify the true purpose of your story\nUse techniques for effective beginnings and endings\nDevelop character arcs through yearning and internal/external conflict\nIdentify the key components of a successful scene\n\nTime requirements\n\nN/A\n\nMaterials\n\nAll reading materials will be provided.\n\nWho should take this workshop?\n\nThis workshop is designed for beginning and intermediate fiction and memoir writers looking to build the confidence to start\, finish\, and refine the plot and structure of their manuscripts.\n\n\nIf you need an accommodation for this workshop\, please contact us at access@writer.org. We will attempt to fulfill all requests\, but advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility services.
URL:https://writer.org/event/mapping-strategies-for-story-structure-5/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:1 Session,Beginner/Intermediate Level,Mixed Genre,Workshop,Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://writer.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Writing-Hand.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261114T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261114T170000
DTSTAMP:20261018T162713Z
CREATED:20260814T210319Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261018T162713Z
UID:10005416-1794664800-1794675600@writer.org
SUMMARY:Getting Your Poetry Published
DESCRIPTION:Learn helpful tips for placing your poems in literary journals and with publishers.\nThis 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 full-length manuscript—hands-on advice on how to achieve their publishing goals. Participants will learn how to place poems in print and online journals\, why anthologies are such an appealing platform\, how to publish chapbooks and books\, the pros and cons of contests\, the etiquette of poetry submission\, ways to develop a poetry network\, and how to keep morale high while facing rejection in a highly competitive field. \n\nLive video conference: This workshop will be held via our online video conferencing platform\, Zoom. You can view brief tutorials on using the platform here. On the start date or the day before\, participants will receive an email with login info (please check your spam if you don’t see it). \n\nIn this workshop you’ll learn:\n\nFinding the best journals for your work\nThe ideal cover letter\nContest pros and cons\n\nTime requirements\n\nN/A\n\nMaterials\n\nAll reading materials will be provided.\n\nWho should take this workshop?\n\nThis workshop is designed to appeal to poets at all stages of the publishing journey.\n\n\nIf you need an accommodation for this workshop\, please contact us at access@writer.org. We will attempt to fulfill all requests\, but advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility services.
URL:https://writer.org/event/getting-your-poetry-published-3/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:1 Session,All Levels,Poetry,Workshop,Zoom
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261114T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261114T200000
DTSTAMP:20261019T134451Z
CREATED:20260730T184805Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261019T134451Z
UID:10005329-1794679200-1794686400@writer.org
SUMMARY:Ole Blue Claw: Tales from the Crustier Side of Maryland Anthology Launch
DESCRIPTION: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. \nJoin Maryland writers Preston Ford\, Greta Ehrig\, Ritchie Porter\, Rhonda Zimlich\, Cathy Tsang\, and Theodore Carter for a reading of their anthologized work and to meet the editors as we celebrate Maryland storytelling. \nFree and Open to the Public. \n\nAbout Ole’ Blue Claw\n\n\nAn Anthology of Place-Based Fiction\n\n\n\n\nOle’ Blue Claw is the brainchild of Diana Friedman\, Kim Gallagher Moses and Phil Hearn\, three graduates of the Johns Hopkins University Master of Arts in Writing Program. Our desire was to capture the diversity and little-known wonders of the Old Line State of Maryland\, including its crustier side. As long-term residents of the state\, we are proud to have filled the pages of Ole’ Blue Claw with engaging\, place-infused stories and vibrant\, idiosyncratic\, memorable characters whose personality quirks and clashes swell the heart of our readers and of course\, ole’ blue claw himself\, the Old Line State’s most infamous decapod crustacean. With support from the Maryland State Arts Council\, we were able to compensate 23 Maryland authors whose work appears in Ole Blue Claw and commission a Maryland cover artist to create original artwork. \n\n\n\nTheodore Carter is the author of several books including Stealing The Scream\, Frida Sex Dreams and Other Unnerving Disruptions. His fiction has appeared in The North American Review\, Pank\, Necessary Fiction\, and elsewhere. He’s a staff writer for Daily Art Magazine. You can see his street art out and about in Washington\, D.C.  \nGreta Ehrig earned an MFA in Creative Writing from A.U.\, where she was Editor of Folio literary journal and a Lannan Fellow.  Her poetry has appeared in numerous publications\, including: Southern Poetry Review; Beltway Quarterly; and Mid-Atlantic Review.  Her songwriting has been recognized by the Bernard-Ebb and Mid-Atlantic Song Contests.  She has received support from Arts & Humanities Council of Montgomery County; Maryland State Arts Council; and National League of American Pen Women.  In 2024\, Greta was nominated for Best of the Net and a Pushcart Prize for poetry.  She teaches piano and songwriting at Montgomery College. \nPreston Ford is a teacher with a life-long interest in creative writing. A graduate of Johns Hopkins University\, he has lived throughout the South and now makes his home near the nation’s capital. Ford is the author of Quarter Moon: A Novel of the American South (A Thousand Candles Press\, 2023) and numerous short stories\, some of which can be found in the collections Impressions in Half-light (Outskirts Press\, 2009) and Days of Unease (A Thousand Candles Press\, 2024). He plays chess\, writes\, and worries about the state of the world in his spare time.  \nRitchie Porter lives in Silver Spring\, MD\, and is the father of two boys\, not two girls. After acting in the D.C. region for a number of years\, he transitioned to teaching and now instructs theater and directs at St. Andrew’s Episcopal School in Potomac. In his spare time he plays music\, acts and writes short fiction and plays. He would like to thank the editors of the Ole Blue Crab for taking a chance on his story\, and for their expert and caring guidance. \nCathy Tsang is a Chinese American who grew up in Florida. She has been published in newspapers and magazines. This is her first time being published in a book. She loves reading cozy murder mysteries\, historic fiction and tries to find time to write while taking care of two young children. She resides with her family in Rockville\, Maryland. \nRhonda Zimlich teaches creative writing and serves as the Director of the MFA in Creative Writing Program at American University in Washington D.C. She writes about intergenerational trauma and the unbreakable spirit of youth. Her debut novel\, Raising Panic\, won the Steel Toe Books 2023 Book Award for prose. She was awarded the 2020 Literary Award in Nonfiction from Dogwood\, earning an honorable mention in Best American Essays. She received the 2021 Fiction Award from Please See Me\, and the 2024 Nonfiction Award from Barely South Review.. Other works have appeared in Brevity\, Past-Ten\, American Writer’s Review\, and more.www.rhondazimlich.com \n\nIf you need an accommodation for this event\, please contact us at access@writer.org. We will attempt to fulfill all requests\, but advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility services. \n\nEnjoying our free events? Help us offer more programs to support writers with a $10 donation »
URL:https://writer.org/event/ole-blue-claw/
LOCATION:The Writer’s Center\, 4508 Walsh Street\, Bethesda\, MD\, 20815\, United States
CATEGORIES:Event
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