Upcoming dates

Writing encouragement

Writing prompts



FOR 2009-20010  SCHEDULE SEE
upcoming dates !

You love to write, but there is never enough time, never enough quiet…or never enough motivation. Your good intentions to set pen to paper or finger to keyboard never materialize. Sound familiar?

Then a writing group might be just the antidote you need. Come, try a monthly writing session (one of two six-month sessions) or a Saturday retreat — writing in response to exercises, reading what you write to supportive listeners (if you so choose) and reveling in the creative wonder of words.

We use the Amherst Writers and Artists’*  method created and honed for over twenty five years by Pat Schneider, author of Writing Alone and with Others. An internationally known model, this method’s goal is to build confidence as we discover (or re-discover) our writing Voices - including those Voices that have been harmed or hindered by previous writing experiences.

Using what is referred to as process writing or free writing the AWA model affirms what is strong in the fresh material written during groups sessions rather than immediately responding with critique.

Through writing prompts and exercises new material and themes arise that might not otherwise have been discovered.  During the monthly writing group there is also opportunity each month for one participant to read revised material to the larger group in order to receive constructive reader response from a broader group.  (This will not be an invitation to "fix and repair."   

* The AWA method developed by Pat Schneider, author of Writing Alone and with Others, advocates "process" or "free" writing, and believes that affirmation and encouragement are key to valuing the writer within.  Colette is a certified AWA writing group leader having taken, with Pat Schneider, Program I & II. For more information on the AWA method or to inquire about training and other offerings visit amherstwriters.com where you will find me listed under Affiliates.