How are the workshops structured? Each workshop opens with generating new work during a timed writing to a prompt or exercise. After each writer is free to share what s/he has written but is not obligated or pressured, even subtly, to do so. Listeners reflect back what is memorable -- an image, language, etc. -- about what they heard. No critiquing takes place. Writers use these exercises to further works in progress, to start new works, or simply to keep their practice going. A break follows, during which we snack (snacks provided), chat or socialize, or take care of personal needs. We reconvene after 15 minutes, share announcements and distribute drafts for the following week's critiques. The last portion of the meeting is dedicated to critique discussions. According to a schedule provided in advance, writers distribute copies of their drafts each previous week for others to read and reflect upon. Handouts covering how to critique are provided, and Peg facilitates the critique discussions. The discussions take place in an equanimous atmosphere and are focused on craft issues -- how and why things are working -- with the understanding that all of us are learning from this concentrated study. This is the short version! How many students are in a class? Each session is limited to 8 writers. During the session, how many times will I have a chance to submit for critique? Each writer may submit twice in a six-week session.
Where do classes meet? In the facilitator's (Peg's) home in Santa Rosa or other writers' homes in Marin. Address and directions are provided once the deposit fee has been paid. What are the typical students like? There are no typical students! The writers range in age from young people in their twenties to some who have retired from their professional careers. In skill level, some are well-published, some have earned MFAs or PhDs, some are just starting out, and some are at a developmental or skill level somewhere along the spectrum. Some writers have participated in each and every session since the NBW inception in 2010. Yet new writers are always welcome. What can I expect as a newcomer? Those writers who have been participating for some time are unfailingly kind, respectful, and generous. There are no cliques; there are no outsiders. Everyone seems to remember quite readily what it is to be the latest newcomer. I am known for being an encouraging, nurturing, and respectful teacher and facilitator, and I believe my characteristics set the tone and tenor for the workshops.
What forms of payment are accepted? At this time I'm not offering online payment in order to keep the costs down for students/writers. I ask that you send your deposit check to me in the amount of $180. Contact me and I will provide the mailing address. Please understand that I can't hold your spot until I've received your deposit.
I’ve paid my deposit, what’s next? Upon receipt, I'll let you know that your place is reserved. Next you'll receive an email with several documents detailing everything you need to know to get started, including pragmatic information about location, snacks (very important!), and the like; a schedule for critique discussions; how-to's on critiquing, and much more. You will need to pay your balance at the end of the first meeting.
Are refunds available? Generally speaking, no. I will consider on a case by case basis any exceptional, unforeseen circumstances, but because the workshops are small, everyone is counting on each writer's participation.
Do you offer online classes? No! However, I will work one-on-one with writers on occasion. Please contact me for more information. Can you provide testimonials from students? Absolutely. See the tab to your left under Writing Workshops appropriately labeled "Testimonials."