A few questions and answers about the Amherst Writers & Artists (AWA) method, and why joining a Start Writing workshop might be the best-ever thing you do for your writing.
............................................................................................................................
What happens in an AWA writing workshop?
Unlike most writing courses, which are based on lectures and assignments, AWA workshops leave out the lessons and the homework. Writing exercises are completed and shared in the group, where the workshop leader writes and reads their work as an equal participant. When this brand-new, first-draft work is read aloud, it is done so voluntarily and with the understanding that no criticism or questions are allowed.
To help us achieve this goal, all writing is treated as fiction. This presents participants with the opportunity to write about whatever they like, without fear of being challenged, judged or evaluated.
Writers still learn about their craft in AWA workshops. Participants gain knowledge through exercises that invite experimentation and growth. Workshop members also have the opportunity to receive critical feedback on their work. However, this only takes place once the writer asks for it and distributes their work in a manuscript form. Manuscript feedback remains balanced, with as much affirmation as suggestions for change.
............................................................................................................................
Where does the Amherst Writers & Artists method come from?
The AWA method was developed by writer Pat Schneider and is described in her recent book, Writing Alone and With Others. Amherst Writers & Artists was founded by Pat in 1981, and has grown into a non-profit corporation with four main programs. Over the last 25 years, the AWA method has spread to writing groups across the United States and into Canada and Europe as well.
............................................................................................................................
What is the AWA philosophy?
It’s a simple one: every person is a writer, and every writer deserves a safe environment in which to experiment, learn, and develop craft.
The AWA method is built on five essential affirmations:
1. Everyone has a strong, unique voice.
2. Everyone is born with creative genius.
3. Writing as an art form belongs to all people, regardless of economic class or educational level.
4. The teaching of craft can be done without damage to a writer’s original voice or artistic self-esteem.
5. A writer is someone who writes.
............................................................................................................................
Who leads the workshops?
David Bester is a Toronto-based professional writer and editor with 10 years of freelance writing experience. Slipping into the first person here, I have spent thousands of pages thinking about writing and creativity. Of all the methods I have come across, I believe the Amherst Writers & Artists approach to be the most effective and am proud to officially represent the group in Toronto.
............................................................................................................................
Where are the workshops held?
Start Writing workshops are held in a large multi-purpose boardroom at 489 College Street (at Bathurst). This nifty brick & beam building is centrally located. Two streetcar options, good parking availability and great coffee joints makes this a truly writer-friendly venue.
............................................................................................................................
Where can I learn more about the AWA method?
Here’s four suggested links.
Writing Alone and With Others
(Oxford University Press, 2003)
Amherst Writers & Artists
The official AWA site
Me, 13 chicks, and a week in Texas
My own thoughts about discovering the AWA method.
Go away, can’t you see I’m writing?
A bang-on column by Cary Tennis at Salon.com about the value of writing workshops. This column was my introduction to the concept of writing in groups, the AWA method, and the trigger that led me to their training session.
|
