Shari Wilson is leading a workshop for writers who want to strengthen their craft as well as those who possess a compelling desire to tell great stories and are looking for a place to start.
Over the course of six weeks, participants will delve into the major elements of craft to strengthen writing skills. Through readings and discussion of modern short stories, writers will see each element at work. The workshop not only offers an opportunity to learn and practice new skills, but also a place where like-minded individuals feel safe and comfortable to share their work, give and receive feedback.
“I’m striving for an atmosphere that is comfortable and encourages free discussion and shared insight,” says Shari, “Though it will be a workshop that is led, the writers are the ones truly in control.
“People don’t necessarily find it easy to share their work, especially when sitting in the midst of new faces. The work is so close to them, to who they are as individuals trying to navigate the medium. Also, people are held back by self-consciousness and questions of whether or not the work is good enough to be shared. The workshop strives to assuage those fears and ease the self-consciousness.
“Instead of an audience of strangers, the writer is surrounded by an audience of peers, individuals who are striving for the same things as they are: complex and empathetic characters, seamless plot and a compelling voice – simply, good fiction. Everyone in the room wants the same thing and will hopefully be eager to help the others get that great final product.”
There will be works by Leo Tolstoy, Frank O’Connor, Ha Jin and Guy de Maupassant used during the sessions as well as some by Ernest Hemingway, Flannery O’Connor and Shirley Jackson.
WRITERS WORKSHOPS
The sessions start 8 September and run Thursdays from 7pm at Books & Books. $40, includes a copy of Fiction Writers Workshop.
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