A. Writing Ways Workshops are founded upon the Amherst Writers and Artists (AWA) method, which helps maintain a safe, sacred place for the most authentic writing to emerge.
Q. How does it work?
A. In every workshop, beginning and experienced writers respond to two or three writing prompts each week. Participants may read their work aloud or elect not to share their writing. Because first-draft writing is fresh, raw and vulnerable to damage by negative judgment, group members are asked to make only affirming, positive comments, such as what they remember and like, what works, what emotions and details stand out in the writing. Whatever is read here, stays here. Confidentiality is key.
Q. Are there specific rules or guidelines?
A. Writing Ways Workshop guidelines are as follows:
--Honor each writer by listening carefully.
--Treat all writing in workshop as fiction, and maintain privacy. Honor the writing that’s shared in workshop with complete confidence. Never assume that what’s shared is necessarily true or drawn from the real life of the writer. Always refer to the voice in the piece as the voice of the narrator/speaker or character, and not as the writer. This simple but unusual practice enables risk-taking in writing and is critical, because all writing is risk-taking of one kind or another.
--Accept or reject exercises as invitations for writing and reading as you see fit. You may also elect not to share your work at any time.
--Respond to fresh writing with positive commentary, what we like in the writing, what stays with us, what moves us—not with questions or suggestions on how to make the piece stronger. Responses should always stick to the writing, avoiding anecdotes and asides. Participants are expected to respect and honor every member of the group with support and confidence.
--Keep writing time sacred. Writing is what we come here to do.
Q. Will I be writing in workshop sessions or at home?
A. Hopefully, both. Writers who write regularly in workshop are often inspired to write more at home. But there are no assignments or homework.
