Writing Workshops

At Writer On Writers, creative writing workshops are designed to inspire, motivate and support writers from beginner to advance. Workshops include:

OLLI at ISU WORKSHOPS

SOLD OUT | Writing Small in Memoir

In this six-week course, we will focus on “making the most of small moments.” Drawn from personal experiences—encapsulated memories—we will write memoir in short form. (Max: ~700 words.) Through writing prompts, and group workshopping (critiquing) of pieces, participants will explore techniques of writing that lend themselves to small memoir pieces. Short-form pieces combined, can create a mural of a life story allowing for readers to shine light on the in-betweens.

Class discussionswill center on key creative writing techniques (sensory details; setting scene; enriching setting; developing characters; creating atmosphere, managing time, and plot/pacing of narrative). Class members will read and discuss short-published examples of nonfiction writing, and work will be generative from thought-provoking writing prompts. Class time will combine craft discussion with workshopping of participants’ creative pieces.

The class is limited to 8 writers to allow time for all participants to receive workshop feedback. No prior writing experience is necessary.

Class Dates: Begins March 22nd | 3 to 5 pm CDT via Zoom

Register through OLLI at ISU

Write on Writers Workshops

Amherst Writers & Artists Method Workshops

The objective of these workshops (6-8 weeks sessions and one-day workshops) is to provide a safe and supportive setting for participants to come together to create new works or further develop works in progress. Together we will write from writing prompts. I encourage writers to write with a pen and paper. Writing prompts are a means of generating new ideas, unearthing buried memories, to practice the art of writing. At the end of our timed writing, writers share their writing, including the facilitator. Writers may decline, but the process fosters bravery.

Writing Inspired by Willa Cather

In keeping with the mission of the Willa Cather Foundation—to promote and encourage increased understanding and appreciation of the life, times, and works of Willa Cather—Cather enthusiasts meet monthly via Zoom to write new pieces inspired by Cather quotes.

The Micro-Memoir: Writing in the Moment

This six-week course focuses on “making the most of a moment.” Drawn from personal experiences—quirky memories, meeting a beloved, witnessing a tragedy—we will write memoir in short form. (Max: 750 words.) Through generative in-class writing, and group workshopping (critiquing) of pieces written at home, participants will explore techniques of writing that lend themselves to short-form memoir. Short- form memoirs, later combined, can create snapshots of a life story.

Testimonials

“I loved the small micro memoir format Ana taught. I think for most students it was an eye opener to think that small pieces make a whole picture.” —Sondra E.

“I learned things I didn’t expect with Ana. I might say, I took some things in and rejected a few others. This was possible because of the very graceful way that Ana teaches and supports students.” —Ann R.

“I appreciated not just Ana’s varied writing exercises but the interaction with the other writers. Our varied life experiences and reflections will remain a stimulus to me for a long time and for her thoughtful guidance throughout our time together.” —Ruth P

“After attending Ana’s 10-week long workshop, I believe the fluidity of my writing has increased and that I have been challenged to continue to explore my writing. And I loved finding the bravery to read my writing out loud to others as well as Ana’s guidance and heartfelt enthusiasm for her “students” and fellow writers.” —Susan R

Photo credits this page: Linda Rathje, Dramatic Memories