GENERAL
Q: I’m new to writing workshops. Will I fit in?
A: Absolutely! Our experienced workshop leaders plan their sessions to benefit both beginning and experienced writers. We pride ourselves on building an encouraging community of writers where all feel welcome.
Q: I’ve been to dozens of workshops. What will I get out of this one?
A: Our faculty challenge 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. Try one of Peter’s prompts from Challenges for the Delusional.
Q: Do I have to apply to attend?
A: No. We welcome writers with various levels of experience, from beginners discovering their love for the craft to published authors writing their fourth novel. We find that a lack of application contributes to the open and familial nature of our community.
Q: What is a writing prompt?
A: Writing prompts inspire writers to create new work, come up with new ideas and go outside their comfort zone. Writing prompts can be pictures, questions or scenarios. Sometimes prompts are all a writer needs to get started. Try one of Peter’s prompts from Challenges for the Delusional.
Q: What is freewriting?
A: Freewriting is a pre-writing exercise that often helps writers overcome self-doubt and rediscover inspiration. By writing for a set amount of time without worrying about mechanics or topic, writers kickstart their creative process, which can enable the creation of more polished works.
SCHOLARSHIPS
Q: Do you offer scholarships?
A: Depending upon what workshop or program you are interested in, scholarships may be available. Scholarship availability is noted on each of our program’s pages.
Q: I am applying for a scholarship and am open to both nonfiction and poetry workshops. Is it possible for me to send a writing sample of both? What do you suggest? I am a poet, but am looking to expand into nonfiction.
A: We can only consider one application per writer and recommend submitting your strongest work. It’s just fine if your workshop choices are in a different genre than the writing you submit; we hear from a number of writers wanting to expand into a new genre and support it wholeheartedly.
MIXED GENRE WORKSHOPS
Q: I haven’t attended a mixed genre workshop before. How will I benefit from this program?
A: While different genres have different demands, Peter has found that fiction writers, nonfiction writers and poets can learn much about their own craft by reading, discussing and experimenting with the craft of others. For example, playing with dialogue, setting and point of view can make a poem more surprising and meaningful. Paying attention to compression, rhythm and sound can make a work of prose stronger and more credible.
INTERNATIONAL RETREATS
Q: I write both poetry and fiction. Do I need to have a project in mind to attend?
A: No, a number of our participants write both poetry and prose. It’s not uncommon for someone to decide what form their writing will take after Peter gives the prompt.
Q: How big will the workshop be?
A: Our international writing retreats generally have 17-22 participants. Plus, sometimes travelers bring non-participating guests.
TOPICAL WORKSHOPS
Q: I usually write poetry and fiction but this topic appeals to me. Do I need previous experience writing personal essays?
A: 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.
