How fun is it that I found myself in NYC the very same week that GWW (Gotham Writers’ Workshop) held their annual Winter Open House? Much fun, for me and for Paul, who (being the gentleman that he is) escorted me to the classroom on Bowery (Lower East Side) then had himself a pint or two at McSorley’s Old Ale House while I learned how much there is to learn about writing.
The first class (Nonfiction Writing) was taught by Pauline Millard, who had me at “I write for the The Huffington Post”. I love that she stressed that in order to be a good writer, one really must read. I can do that. I know there is more to being a writer than reading a lot, but it’s a good start, isn’t it?
Ms. Millard gave us several writing prompts (my favorite being “Write about someone you can’t stand”). A few brave souls shared their five minute manifestos with the rest of us (apparently we all have someone or something we can’t stand – relief all around). She suggested we read On Writing by Stephen King. Being the good (i.e. obsessive) student that I am, I decided I must read that book. Now.
Evan Rehill taught the second class (Creative Writing). I enjoyed his teaching style (fired up) and the fact that he felt mortally wounded by a paper cut inflicted upon him last class. I wanted to know (and still do) what the tattoo on his inner wrist symbolized (it looked like a star that had lines missing). Don’t ask me why I didn’t ask him – I don’t know why – just didn’t. Maybe I will e-mail him.
Mr. Rehill taught that the words coming to life are what we give to the reader and gave us the following writing prompt: “Pick an ordinary object and infuse it with magic”. OK, got it. Next prompt? “Add conflict”. What does my character want? What is in the way? Juicy. Let’s make the impossible possible, shall we?
Now, of course, I want to take classes every Saturday in NYC. The classes aren’t too expensive, but the travel (train, parking, subway, etc) would run a couple hundred a week, easy. Alas. GWW does offer classes online, which I typically shy away from…will have to think about it. Meantime, thank you Gotham Writers’ Workshop for enriching my NYC experience!
You’ve really had quite a time there in the Big Apple, and been such a part of what makes it the truly amazing city it is. You sound wonderful, as does Paul in your descriptions, and I am sending love to you both!!
Lots of love out your way also, Denise…it was an amazing few days. Good to be back home with Milo, also.
There are so many Greyhounds needing homes since MA finally put an end the racing. Wish we could adopt another one! If anyone is looking for a canine companion I strongly encourage you to Go Greyhound!
Now, time to get your mystery prize together : )
They ARE wonderful!
V, when do we get a sample of your “non-blog” writing here?
Oh, Sean…I can’t remember the last time I wrote something that wasn’t a blog, letter, journal entry, or marketing material for MGO!
It will take a bit to get my confidence up – I definitely want to take a class or two. But, maybe I will scrape up an old poem just for you : )
Are your classes still going? Will you send me the link to the recent article you were featured in? Can’t wait to read YOUR “non-blog” writing!
Article? Do you mean the spot channel 7 news did on me?
No dinero for classes at the moment, but my writer’s group keeps me inspired and on the ball.
Yes-that is what I meant. Maria sent me a link a while back but for some reason I could not open it.
I am still thinking about the online classes at Gotham, which would cost less. I typically enjoy the synergy of a classroom and am not sure I will have that same experience online but it is worth a shot.
Glad you have a good writer’s group. How did you get connected with said group?
PS Our Italian lessons begin next month!
I, too, prefer the give-and-take of the classroom, as well as the chance to meet new people with whom I know already have something in common. I hope we can start taking Italian lessons in the spring, when M has more time – even though she already has a head start on me.
Here’s that link: http://www.thedenverchannel.com/video/19730055/index.html
It’s my story, but it appears they picked some goofy-looking “stand in” to play me!
My group came about through one of my classes. I have taken three, but in this one, for whatever reason, we really gelled. There were eight people in the class and six of us simply kept on meeting at various pubs or coffeehouses every couple of weeks. We kept in touch with the other two and one wants to start joining us again.
Basically, two people per meeting submit a short (20-page or so) bit they want to receive feedback on. Mostly our novels but one time it was a short story contest submission. We talk about reading/writing/publishing and general chit chat , then critique whatever pieces we have that week. The feedback is great, the support is excellent, and we all really enjoy one another’s company. One of us is shopping her finished book around now – the rest of us are in various stages of artistic disarray.
Oh, this is great! Something solid to send to prospective publishers when the time comes, also, eh?
Very cool to hear about your writers group. I would like to have something like this, as I believe synergy, inspiration, and accountability is a good formula for me.
Best of luck to she who has finished her book – what a great feeling that must be…