“The workshop helped me move past the intimidation that the word ‘memoir’ evoked, and got me writing. Being able to share one’s writing, particularly with the veil of anonymity, is an incredible experience. It is both a pleasure to hear how others have interpreted the assignment, and what they see in what you have gotten down on the page.”
Danny, May 16, 2020
“I learned to write in a way that was previously unknown to me. I learned to access my feelings and stay with what I was feeling, which was really difficult, but important. I went back to sections of a memoir that I had started years ago, sorted out those sections, and now have a clearer idea of what to do with them.”
Ingrid T., May 16, 2020
“These workshops are so helpful in getting us to produce written work without judgment or restriction. There are guiding principles and techniques, but the rest [of the process] allows for space and the opportunity for the work to materialize.”
Jessica, May 16, 2020
“One participant shared how some unskillful criticism had stopped her from writing for several years. This reiterated the importance of giving constructive feedback, such as we received in this workshop. I was impressed by the skillful facilitation skills of the instructor, and the care she took to make this workshop a safe and welcoming space for all the participants.”
Shelley, May 16, 2020
“It was a remarkable group, not only because of the quality of the writing, but because of the kindness all around. [The instructor’s] guidelines for participant response are inspiring. As a teacher, she constructs a safe space for subject matter that might otherwise make a writer feel reluctant to share. I am so appreciative of the chance to share a part of my story, and grateful for the insights of the other participants. It was a soft landing for my first experience sharing memoir.”
Ann, May 16, 2020
“This workshop taught me that there are many ways to structure a piece, many different approaches and forms, but one thing remains true – staying with just one emotional experience and exploring it as deeply as I can is key. For me, the revelation was that first I need to allow myself that complete immersion in the memory, in the emotions, to access my deeper feelings, get them onto the page—technically speaking, to “generate material”—before I do anything else.
I knew I was in good hands with [the instructor] as the moderator – very sensitive, considerate, and kind.”
Katya, May 16, 2020
“Lisa is a highly skilled teacher who is adept at guiding students at all levels and abilities, experience, and English-language proficiency, including native speakers. The tone she sets is professional, where students and writers feel comfortable exposing their lives as well as their writing. I highly recommend the writing workshops; I’ve left each workshop with a written piece to develop further.”
Susan, December 14, 2019
“I learned that there are many points of view from which one can start. I learned that writing can be a lifeline, and it’s very important for me in this phase of life. It felt good to be with people from all over the world.”
Gwen, December 14, 2019