Principles & Prompts: A New Online Writing Class

“A creative life is an amplified life. It’s a bigger life, a happier life, an expanded life, and a hell of a lot more interesting life. Living in this manner–continually and stubbornly bringing forth the jewels that are hidden within you–is a fine art, in and of itself.” ~ Elizabeth Gilbert in BIG MAGIC

image: Big Magic bookI’ve been reading BIG MAGIC lately, taking to heart much of Elizabeth Gilbert’s advice (or maybe it’s more like confirmation) that this thing we do–writing–has purpose whether or not the stories land in this publication or that. It’s easy to minimize our work and on some days to want to give it up outright. So, I do whatever I can to stay connected to creativity.

♦ I read novels or short stories (or books on the craft) that amaze me and inspire me to write more or write better. Lately, I’m reading Shann Ray’s soon-to-be-released novel, AMERICAN COPPER, which is a story I don’t want to put down and a model of writing I would love to emulate.

♦ I schedule coffee dates with other creatives who get it. Who say, Yeah we’re easily distracted by laundry or dinner or bedtime conversations with kids, but we’re easily distracted because our minds are always open–open to the busyness of the world around us and, in turn, open to the inspirations found within that same world. “Easily distracted” is a good thing.

♦ And, I make a commitment to writing in some regular way: every Friday afternoon, once a month at Harwood Place, and, beginning November 1st, six weeks online with you.


Principles & Prompts
an online course on creativity, story, and writing

In simple terms, this is a six-week course from November 1st-December 12th where we will discuss a few principles of the genius and the craft, pulling from books like BIG MAGIC, Lisa Cron’s WIRED FOR STORY, as well as podcasts, videos, & essays online. And, we’ll draft a story or essay based on one writing prompt a week.


photo (3)This is a busy season, I know, but the main goal of this course is to keep you engaged with writing during a time of year when our creative aspirations fall to the wayside in the midst of menu planning, family gatherings, and holidays.

With that in mind, the time commitment is low and so is the price, because not only is this a busy time of year but an expensive one: $65 (returning students will see an even lower rate) guarantees you six weeks of inspiration, the beginnings of several pieces, and new connections with writers like yourself.

I hope you’ll join me. Register through PayPal by clicking the button below. Even though this is online, seats are limited, and the deadline to sign up is Wednesday, October 28th.

Principles & Prompts
November 1-December 12, online.
New students: $65
Returning students: $50

*Registration is now closed, but for more information on the course or future offerings, contact me.

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