Events List
The Garden of Writing Retreat
November 11
Listen & Flow
September 27
October 4 -November 22
October 9 - 30
November 7 - 28
Whole Brain Writing
September 21
October 5
Snapshot Memoir Writing
October 8 & 26
November 2
Writing for Self-Reflection
November 16
Revision Land
October 12
The Garden of Writing Retreat
This special outdoor retreat, held in a riparian garden, blends journaling, generative writing, and quiet time with circles of meaningful discussion. At the heart of the day is connection. We write and observe, breathe deeply, and leave with the springy feeling of having enjoyed a sweet vacation. Includes a spread of light refreshments. Saturday, November 11th. Details.
Listen & Flow [Real-Life Writing]
Listen and Flow is a writing experience like no other. It’s about trusting the creative depth we already possess. In each class, we use poetry to propel us into our real-est stories. Words flow quickly, wherever they want to go, for several short periods. Messy is best. Courage is welcome! When we read our work aloud, fellow writers listen intently, and offer quiet thanks. This is healing work that connects and inspires every member of the group. Sample session: September 27th; October 4-November 22; October 9-30; November 7th-28th. Details.
Snapshot Memoir Writing
When we study old pictures up close, and consider every detail, memories begin to creep back. In this class we learn about the shortest form of memoir writing, ‘flash creative nonfiction'. Exercises help us dive from these photographs into the ocean of stories as yet undiscovered. Includes a short lecture, exercises practice, tips on writing in a compact way, sharing and discussion. For all adult writers. October 8th and 26th, November 2nd. Details.
Writing for Self-Reflection
Research shows that consistent journaling in a deep, reflective way can reduce blood pressure and enhance immunity. In this class, we tap into this therapeutic practice by using JournalCards and inwardly-focused journaling exercises. We talk about our writing insights, frustrations or surprises. An added benefit: a neat sort of bonding happens when we write and share around the same big table. November 16th. Details.
Whole Brain Writing
Some writers dissolve into creative writing with no awareness of the outside world. Others prefer to wrestle a messy draft into shape. In this workshop we invite our dreamy and rational brains to work together to produce part of an essay, poem or story. Includes a short lecture, freewriting, discussion, revision, and group readings. September 21st, October 5th. Details.
Revision Land
Whether drafting a novel, story or poem, we eventually rework our words. In Revision Land, the rough draft is revered! Here, we discover new ways to address our raw material. We learn about writing places to visit, lounge around, or trim from our itineraries. Includes a short lecture, a revision period and the opportunity to read our freshened-up writing to the group. October 12th, 2:30-5pm, Northwest Tucson. Details.
Words Over Coffee
Let's grab coffee and chat about writing! We might talk about what you're reading or creating, or local lit events you want to check out. All topics and all writers welcome. Casual and friendly. No need to RSVP. Held monthly. September 13, October 17th. Stop by any time between 3-5pm. Savaya Coffee in Oro Valley. Details.
Teen Blog, Book & Media Review
While teenage readers enjoy young adult literature, they especially like anything written by people their age. In this class, teens learn to inject their personalities and perspectives into their blog, book or media reviews, later publishable in online or print sources. Includes writing exercises and publishing tips. For all teen writers.
WordPlay
This workshop is for writers who want a new way to create. For the first hour we jump up and try simple improv exercises; in hour two, we write from imaginative prompts, read what we wrote, and discuss. This non-competitive class is friend-building, laugh-worthy, and little bit zany, which everyone needs. Right? September 16th (Teen class) from 1-3:30pm at Wheeler-Taft Library. For ages 13-18. Please contact the library to register.
The Quiet Workhorse
Action movies receive lots of attention, but what about those quiet stories? How do writers present subtle conflict when tension exists beneath the plot, within the character, or outside the action? In this class we dig into the powers of understatement and subtext in prose. Includes a lecture, writing exercises and group discussion.