Writing Workshops



Writing is more than putting thought to paper. Through writing you remember, explore and feel. You meet the stories that live inside of you, wanting to speak. In all of Joan's workshops, regardless of the focus, you learn how to be in right relationship to your material so that the writing of it feels effortless and true. Using Joan's simple writing method you create the conditions for spontaneity and expand awareness while writing to uncover voice, story and meaning. See Calendar for details on specific workshops.




Workshops are small (8-10 people), intensive and suitable for all levels of writers. A typical workshop consists of group discussion, individualized prompts and short free-writing sessions. Participants read aloud and give and receive feedback in a relaxed and supportive setting. Most workshops focus on the writing process itself, rather than on participants' past or current work. As such, there are no prerequisites, nor is there an application process.

Joan's invitation to write has become an art form so gently entered that all who emerge from her sessions do so in awe of what they have expressed and learned.

. . . Mary Winsky, Gainesville, VA

I was keenly aware of my progress over the weekend as I went to deeper and deeper places in my writing. I felt as if I were tapping into a stream of writing I had not been able to access before.

. . .  Sara Cope, Orlando, FL


I credit your Memoir workshop for helping me work through a bit of writer’s block that I was experiencing and enabling me to move forward with my book, Nice Children Stolen from Car. It was released this past May [2012] . . . Thanks for your incredible workshop. It was just what I needed to “jumpstart” my writing and get my project back on track.

. . .  Barbara Allen, Framingham, MA


Copyright © 2012 Fifth House Lodge