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A SAFE PLACE TO WRITE  
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the Workshops

I named my workshops Laguna Writers because they really began in a noisy apartment on Laguna Street in San Francisco. I call them workshops, not classes, because there is no homework and no supplies are necessary. You only need to bring a pen and a pad of paper, or whatever it is you like to write on. I have extras if you forget these, so all you really have to bring is yourself. I supply snacks, tea and coffee.

the group


Not manuscript driven. My writing workshops differ from traditional writing groups because they are not manuscript driven. Most writer's groups require that someone--or several people in the group-- present manuscripts each week for critical feedback. My workshop is based on a different method: the Amherst Writers and Artist method.

Inspiration provided. I provide everyone with exercises that loosen us up, make us remember, and help us create characters, utilize sensory detail, write dialogue, and sometimes even create poems. We set aside 15-20 minutes to write several times during the evening, and then if you choose to, you can read your work out loud. No one has to read out loud; anyone may pass at anytime.

Positive feedback only. If you do read your work out loud, we only respond with what we like and what we remember. No critical feedback. My opinion is that these writings are fresh, first drafts, and do not benefit from criticism. If the writer knows what's working, he or she can work on that manuscript later and present it to the group at a later date--if he or she chooses to do so. That is the only time the writer will receive critical feedback, balanced with praise. In my experience, this builds trust and self confidence, and I have seen writers grow immensely from this. It works.

Workshop times. The workshops sessions are nine weeks long (except for the Fall session, which is eight weeks, due to the holidays). They are held on Tuesday or Thursday nights from 7:30-10:00 p.m. in my apartment in Noe Valley. Saturday workshops are offered as well, four times a year.

Tuition and Deposit Information

 

 
 

 

2008 Workshops:

Spring 2008  
Tuesdays
April 22nd - June 24th
(no meeting May 13th)

JUST ADDED! Wednesdays
April 30th - June 18th
(Eight Weeks)

Thursdays
April 24th - June 26th
(no meeting May 15th)

Summer 2008  
Tuesdays
July 29th - September 30th
(no meeting August 19th)


Thursdays
July 31st - October 2nd
(no meeting August 21st)

Fall 2008

Eight Weeks
Tuesdays
October 21st - December 16th
(no meeting November 25th)


Thursdays
October 23rd - December 18th
(no meeting November 27th)

Saturday Workshops

March 1st
June 14th
September 6th
December 6th

about Saturdays