Join us for this five-week online creative nonfiction workshop. Write to inspiring prompts, get insightful feedback and connect with a supportive community of writers.
Online WORKSHOP
Monday, September 12 – Monday, October 17, 2022
Each Monday, 7:00-9:00pm EDT
Led by Camellia-Berry Grass
Limited to 12 participants
*This workshop requires at least 8 participants to run.*
From the first page, a writer can establish the emotional stakes and boundaries needed to foster that moment of deep connection and being seen, for which we turn to creative nonfiction. This workshop will explore strategies for achieving intimacy in personal essay and memoir right from the start. We will learn techniques to craft beginnings that invite readers into your story and voice on the terms most conducive to that relationship. Examining works by Hanif Abdurraqib, Jo Ann Beard, Joan Didion and others, we’ll consider numerous modalities—from fact to flashback, searching to speculation, mourning to myth—that will influence how we think about making first impressions. Each week we’ll generate new or alternate beginnings so you can take this workshop as purely generative or reimagine a work-in-progress.
“I enjoyed writing with other people and sharing creativity. You are presenting a wonderful product for writers at all levels. I hope you continue for a long time to come.”
~ Linda, Doylestown, PA
FACULTY
Workshop Leader
Camellia-Berry Grass (she/her) teaches creative nonfiction in the MFA program in creative writing at Rosemont College. She is the author of the lyric essay collection Hall of Waters (The Operating System, 2019), and her essays appear in DIAGRAM, Barrelhouse, the Texas Review and Waxwing, among other publications and anthologies. She has served as Nonfiction Editor for Black Warrior Review and for Sundog Lit. She earned an MFA in creative writing at the University of Alabama. Her essay “Battle Vest” was a nominee for the Krause Essay Prize in 2019.
“This was another intimate, informative and well-organized effort, and a worthy investment of time for any writer.”
~ Stacey, Lambertville, NJ
How It Works
Schedule
The course will be held over Zoom for five Mondays, 7:00-9:00pm EDT:
- Monday, September 12
- Monday, September 19
- Monday, September 26
- Monday, October 3
- Monday, October 17
Note that the course will not meet the week of October 10, and will continue on October 17.
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 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
“Murphy Writing offers a wonderful opportunity to meet other writers and share writing and a sense of community.”
~ Ida Beth, Trenton, 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?
Call 609-626-3594 or email info@murphywriting.com.
Write with us.
