Join us for this four-week online memoir workshop. Write to inspiring prompts, get insightful feedback and connect with a supportive community of writers.
Online WORKSHOP
Monday, September 21 – Monday, October 12, 2026
Each Monday, 6:30pm EDT – see schedule
Led by Cynthia Arrieu-King
Limited to 12 participants
Have you written pieces of a memoir but are stumped about how to get it into its final form? Do you feel unsure how to fill in the spaces between beginning, middle, and end? In this course, we will read published work, do generative exercises, workshop your new excerpts, and map out your remaining writing tasks. Some authors we’ll dip into are Raymond Queneau, William Carlos Williams, Bhanu Kapil, Jos Charles, Brandon Shimoda, and Theresa Hak Kyung Cha. Expect to deepen your understanding of how style is built via grammar, experience a spectrum of challenging and fresh styles, and think about the main ingredients of memoir as literary narrative. Each writer will come away with two to three new flash memoir pieces and a plan for a second draft of their memoir submissions.
“My workshop was both inspirational and enlightening! I am excited to write about the prompts and read some new poems. I look forward to the next workshop!”
~ Sherrie, Bridgeton, NJ
FACULTY
Workshop Leader
Cynthia Arrieu-King is a professor of creative writing at Stockton University and a former Kundiman fellow. Her poetry books include People are Tiny in Paintings of China (Octopus Books 2010), Manifest, winner of the Gatewood Prize chosen by Harryette Mullen (Switchback Books 2013), Futureless Languages (Radiator Press 2018) and its sequel Continuity (Octopus Books 2021). Her experimental prose memoir The Betweens (Noemi 2021) examines the difference between how we see others and how and who they really are. She’s working on a collection of short stories and a novel on caregiving and post-apocalyptic utopias. Learn more on her website.
“I always learn something new at a Murphy Writing workshop. The classes are always filled with creativity and talent.”
~ Jackie, Cape May, NJ
How It Works
The workshop will be held over Zoom for four Mondays at 6:30pm EDT:
- Monday, September 21
- Monday, September 28
- Monday, October 5
- Monday, October 12
The duration of these weekly meetings is dependent on the number of participants registered. If up to 7 participants register, the meetings will take place from 6:30-8:00pm. If 8+ participants register, the meetings will take place from 6:30-8:30pm.
Each week’s materials will be made available beforehand so you have a chance to review them ahead of time.
You will receive further details about each deadline and assignment after you enroll in the course.
technical requirements
Materials for the course will be shared using a free online platform, Google Classroom. You will need a computer or tablet, internet access, and a Gmail account in order to use Google Classroom. 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: $280-$360
Tuition for this program is based on a sliding scale between $280 and $360. 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
- Four dedicated 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 murphywriting@stockton.edu.
The Fine Print
- By registering for this program, you are agreeing to uphold our Code of Conduct
- Full fee due upon registration
Cancellation Policy
- By September 14 — 50% credit toward one of our upcoming programs
- After September 14 — No refund or credit
“The instructor really engaged us and introduced new techniques and great advice.”
~ Donna, Egg Harbor Township, NJ
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?
Email murphywriting@stockton.edu.
Write with us.
