Story Midwives

http://www.namw.org/blog/memoir-writing-tips-story-midwives/

Discussion Points - Week #1

Points of discussion for tonight:

1. Let's talk about our writing histories. How long have you been writing? How long have you known you wanted to write? What kinds of writing have you done/do you do?

2. What do you think at this stage is your territory? What are you drawn to write about? What things obsess you as a writer? What kinds of projects do you think you would like to work on for the duration of this course (and beyond)?

3. What do you think are your strengths as a writer? What areas do you think you would like to improve upon?

4. Describe what you consider the best piece you have ever written. What made it special to you?

5. What kind of writing do you enjoy (doesn't have to be memoirs). Who are some of your favorite writers?

6. What are you long range writing goals and what kinds of encouragement or support or training do you think you need to get there?

Weekly Focus

So here's what I think the main focus of each week will be:

1. Claiming Your Territory
2. Finding Your Voice
3. Digging Deep
4. Hammering It Out
5. Looking Outward
6. Polishing Your Diamond
7. Turning It Loose
8. Living Like A Writer


I'll assign some readings for each week that fit in some way with that theme or that stage of the writing process, and we'll spend some time discussing our own processes and ways of getting it done. Beginning on week 2 we'll have your work to critique as well.