Murphy Writing of Stockton University

Are you eager to contribute to the political conversation? Take advantage of our supportive atmosphere as a safe space to write a provocative personal essay worthy of submitting to the Op-Ed editors of major publications. Whether you lean left or right—or stand smack dab in the middle—this invigorating workshop will help you transform your fiery arguments into an eloquent and persuasive, thought-provoking piece.

WORKSHOP

Saturday, October 13, 2018
9:45 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Led by Peter E. Murphy

Join us for a day of writing that responds to the tumultuous nature of our current social and political ecosystem. A selection of readings will offer examples of well-written personal essays. Peter’s writing prompts will inspire you to explore the different ways you can present your point of view.

In the afternoon, you can spend more time writing and revising or share one of your new drafts in a supportive feedback session. Peter will help you sharpen your focus and turn your opinion into a publishable piece that will evoke understanding and empathy within your readers. The day will end with suggestions on how and where to submit your essay.

More details:

• Bring a work in progress or start something brand new.
• Open to prose writers and poets, even if personal essay isn’t your usual genre.
• Participants will receive a selection of readings approximately one week prior to the program. You will get more out of the day if you are familiar with these readings before you arrive.
• Everyone will have time to “workshop” their piece!

Re-PETERs” welcome! Prompts, readings and craft discussion will differ each time.

Limited to just 12 participants. Register today so you’re not disappointed.

“I have a tendency to write with the emergency brake on, but your exercises provided me with some wonderful new tools for freeing my imagination. I really appreciate the amount of thought you put into the program.”

~ Mary, Bala Cynwyd, PA

SCHEDULE

FACULTY

Peter E. Murphy was born in Wales and grew up in New York City where he operated heavy equipment, managed a nightclub and drove a cab. He is the author of ten books and chapbooks including two books of writing prompts and Stubborn Child, a finalist for the Paterson Poetry Prize. More than a dozen excerpts of his memoir-in-progress, You Go To My Head, have been published as standalone pieces in literary magazines including “Looking for Thelma,” winner of the 2018 Wilt Nonfiction Chapbook Prize. The founder of Murphy Writing of Stockton University, Peter has received dozens of awards and fellowships and has led hundreds of workshops for writers and teachers. Read one of Peter’s political essays, published in Guernica, or visit his website at peteremurphy.com.

“Peter, magically, has the ability to sweep away doubts, excuses and the static in my head–until all that is left is the opportunity to write. Another great experience!”

~ Joe, Marmora, NJ

Location

Kramer Hall
30 Front Street
Hammonton, NJ 08037

This workshop will take place at Kramer Hall, Stockton University’s beautifully restored three-story former shoe factory. Centrally located in the Arts District of Downtown Hammonton, Kramer Hall is seconds away from shops, restaurants, The Eagle Theatre, the Hammonton Arts Center and the Noyes Museum of Art of Stockton. Hammonton is in the heart of South Jersey–only 40 minutes from Philadelphia, 70 minutes from Princeton and under 2 hours from North Jersey and New York. See the Travel section below for the address, directions and parking info.

Pricing + Registration

Tuition for October 13 — $150

Includes the workshop, a morning coffee break and a lunch of salad, sandwiches, soft drinks, chips and dessert.

Take advantage + save

• “re-PETER” Discount ($15 off) if you’ve attended any of our other programs
• Stockton Discount ($15 off) for students, alumni, faculty, adjuncts or staff

If you have trouble registering online, or if you don’t receive an email confirming your online registration within 24 hours, call us at 609-626-3594 or email us at info@murphywriting.com.

The Fine Print

• Full fee due upon registration
• “re-PETER” Discount ($15 off) if you’ve attended any of our other programs
• Stockton Discount ($15 off) for students, alumni, faculty, adjuncts or staff
• Sorry, only one discount per person
• Change Fee ($25) will be charged to make changes to your registration after July 15

Cancellation Policy

• By September 29 — 50% credit toward one of our upcoming programs
• After September 29 — No refund

Scholarships

We are not currently offering scholarships for this program. Sign up for our email list to be notified about future scholarship opportunities.

“This was my first time attending and I truly grew. I loved the low-key, relaxed nature and appreciated the thoughtful assignments. Thanks for the great experience!”

~Christine, Philadelphia, PA

TRAVEL

Venue Address

Stockton University Kramer Hall
30 Front Street
Hammonton, NJ 08037

Parking

There is plenty of free parking at Kramer Hall including lots on both sides of the building as well free parking on Front Street. There are also two municipal lots a block away on the other side of the railroad tracks.

Public Transportation

From Philadelphia or Atlantic City
Take the NJ Transit Atlantic City Rail Line to the Hammonton Station. The station is a 5 minute walk from Kramer Hall.

Accommodations (Optional)

Unfortunately, we cannot recommend any hotels in Hammonton. Try Mount Laurel or Galloway which are both approximately a 30 minute drive.

Additional Meals (Optional)

This writing retreat provides lunch as described above. There are numerous options within a 5 minute walk if you wish to eat dinner in Hammonton.

Note: If you are coming from out of town and prefer a Writing Getaway where we make the hotel and meal arrangements for you, consider one of our other upcoming writing retreats. 

“This was my first time attending and I truly grew. I loved the low-key, relaxed nature and appreciated the thoughtful assignments. Thanks for the great experience.”

~ Christine, Philadelphia, PA

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

I usually write poetry and fiction but this topic appeals to me. Do I need previous experience writing personal essays?
No. If you are a writer, you already know how to put sentences together to form ideas. This workshop will show you how to shape those ideas to inform and influence others.

I’m new to writing workshops. Will I fit in?
Absolutely! Peter’s unique prompts will allow this supportive program to benefit both beginning and experienced writers. We pride ourselves on building an encouraging community of writers where all feel welcome.

I’ve been to dozens of workshops. What will I get out of this one?
Peter challenges experienced writers to push beyond their usual limits. If you have been writing for decades, he will compel you to go deeper, take more risks and experiment with form and content. We know that experienced writers benefit from our programs based on the fact that hundreds of “re-PETERs” have attended three or more of our writing getaways. Try one of Peter’s prompts from Challenges for the Delusional.

Photo Gallery

View our full collection of Writing Getaway photos.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT CREDITS

Stockton University is recognized by the New Jersey Department of Education to provide professional development credit hours, which are accepted by many other states. You will receive a certificate of participation for each program you attend. Check with your school district or employer to see if it will benefit you.

“I loved this event. Peter offered great insight into the craft of writing in an honest, down-to-earth way. The reading selections were great examples and the prompts were perfectly challenging.”

~ Farrah, Manahawkin, NJ

Questions?

Call 609-626-3594 or email info@murphywriting.com.

BOOK the workshop you need.