Join us for this five-week online memoir workshop. Write to inspiring prompts, get insightful feedback and connect with a supportive community of writers.
Online WORKSHOP
Wednesday, February 16 – Wednesday, March 16, 2022
Each Wednesday, 7:00-9:00pm EST/EDT
Led by Constance Adler
Limited to 12 participants
Everybody has a story to tell. It does not need to be earth-shattering to be compelling; it just needs to be well written. We will start with a “snapshot” of memory—a recalled taste, sound, texture or smell—and learn to make it rich with sensory details, well-chosen words and a clear point of view. We will examine memoir excerpts to discuss how these authors create dialogue, move around in time or capture a sense of place. You will write in response to prompts that guide you to tap into your memories, experiences and ideas, practice new storytelling techniques and learn how fictional tools help the memoir writer. As we share our developing stories, we will also discuss how to expand them into publishable pieces.
“This workshop was one of the best I have attended. The content was superbly presented, we wrote constantly and had the opportunity to share often. The presenter was excellent. Thanks!”
~ Anita, South Carver, MA
FACULTY
Workshop Leader
Constance Adler is the author of the memoir My Bayou, New Orleans Through the Eyes of a Lover. Her stories have appeared in numerous publications that include Oxford American, Utne Reader, Spy Magazine, Philadelphia Magazine, Bayou and Blackbird. Her profile of Mardi Gras float designer Henri Schindler in Gambit Weekly received a First-Place Award in feature writing from the Louisiana Press Association. Peauxdunque Review/Words & Music Literary Conference honored her story “Look” with the First-Place Prize for memoir. Forthcoming in River Teeth is her creative nonfiction story “Wonder Woman.” A graduate of Smith College, Adler also holds an MA in creative writing from Hollins University. Raised on the South Jersey Shore, Adler’s feet are now stuck in the mud of Bayou Saint John in New Orleans. You can read more of her work on her website.
“I loved the pacing and structure. The readings were great, and the prompts were inspiring. Thank you so much.”
~ Sarah, Belmar, NJ
How It Works
Schedule
The course will be held over Zoom for five Wednesdays, 7:00-9:00pm EDT/EST:
- Wednesday, February 16
- Wednesday, February 23
- Wednesday, March 2
- Wednesday, March 9
- Wednesday, March 16
Each week’s materials will be made available beforehand so you have a chance to review them ahead of time. Each session will include some guided meditation and freewriting to get your creative juices flowing.
You will receive further details about each deadline and assignment once you enroll in the course.
technical requirements
Materials for the course will be shared using a free online platform called Canvas. You will need a computer or tablet and internet access in order to use Canvas. You will also need access to word processing software (e.g., Microsoft Word).
To fully participate in the weekly Zoom sessions, you will need access to a webcam and microphone. Those built in to a laptop, tablet or smart phone will do.
Pricing + Registration
Tuition — SLIDING SCALE: $350-$450
Tuition for this program is based on a sliding scale between $350 and $450. If you are able to pay at the higher end of the scale, you will help Murphy Writing offer affordable programming and scholarships for writers.
Tuition INCLUDEs
- A curated selection of readings, craft notes and prompts to inspire you each week
- Access to a private space for sharing your writing with your workshop leader and fellow participants
- Five 2-hour Zoom calls with your workshop leader and fellow participants
If you have trouble registering online, or if you don’t receive an email confirming your online registration within 24 hours, email us at info@murphywriting.com.
The Fine Print
- By registering for this program, you are agreeing to uphold our Code of Conduct
- Full fee due upon registration
Cancellation Policy
“You attracted a wonderful group of writers and kept things simple and fun. It was great to see so many friends from other Murphy Writing events.”
~ Frank, Québec, Canada
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
I’m new to writing workshops. Will I fit in?
Absolutely! Our experienced workshop leaders plan their courses to benefit both beginning and experienced writers. We pride ourselves on building an encouraging community of writers where all feel welcome.
I’ve taken dozens of workshops. What will I get out of this one?
Our faculty challenges experienced writers to push beyond their usual limits. If you have been writing for decades, they 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.
I’ve never taken an online workshop before. Do I need special equipment?
No. If you’re reading this website, you probably have everything you need to take this course. You can participate using a laptop or desktop computer, or even a tablet or smart phone.
meet our community
View our full collection of Writing Getaway photos.
Questions?
Call 609-626-3594 or email info@murphywriting.com.
Write with us.
