My philosophy on teaching writing is that, at some level, you can’t.
I realize this sounds contradictory to what I am offering, but basically learning to become a better writer simply requires writing. Getting feedback. And then writing more.
I cannot explain the magic that happens when writers come together in a comfortable, safe, and supportive environment to share their work. Writing spontaneously, without any expectation other than finding creative freedom, can open up a door of possibilities.
Many (many!) of my students have gone on to publish the flash fiction and creative non-fiction that they began writing in my workshop, stories they would not otherwise have known were within them.
My workshops are one hour, once a week, and require nothing more than showing up with an open mind and an open heart, willing to try. I do ask for a commitment of six sessions — though many of my groups have remained together for years. After that, it is a class-by-class “drop-in.” Meaning, you just have to give me 24-hour-notice to let me know whether or not you can make it that week. The initial cost is $180, after that it’s $30/class.
I also offer one-day skills workshops. Sure, creative writing is all about breaking rules — but before you can do that, you need to know what the rules are. Dialogue, character development, plotting, structure, P.O.V. all are “teachable” and often just a matter of learning them.
I have had professional writers in my classes and I have students who have never written creatively before. But, I promise you, everyone who comes discovers the same thing: the more you write, the better your writing becomes, and that feels wonderful.
I have daytime and evening classes. Please feel free to contact me with any questions.