Upcoming Memoir Writing Classes

Wednesdays, Jan 4 – Mar 1 (FULL)
Time: 12:30-2:30 pm, MT, on Zoom
Limited to 4 Students, 8 weeks 

Goals: Some of my students are working on book-length memoirs, others are working on essays and vignettes. Some just want guided, supported writing time to hone their craft and to explore their creative expression. Please see my essay on the power of a contemplative writing practice here: https://www.elephantjournal.com/2016/09/the-overlooked-power-of-a-writing-practice/

Class Format: Each class begins with a brief discussion of the craft of writing and a literary example from writers including Annie Lamott, Dani Shapiro and Cheryl Strayed. You will then receive a guided writing prompt and the time and space to let your words flow. At the end of the timed writing sessions, you will have the opportunity to share your work in a facilitated, supportive environment. At the end of the session, you will come away with a large body of creative work.

To Register: Email Ashley.Shires@gmail.com to make sure there is still space in the class. I will send out the writing prompts before class each week; if you miss a class, you are welcome to use the prompt to write on your own schedule.

Grief Writing Group

Limited to five members, this 6-week online group provides a safe, supportive space to process your grief through writing, in a community with others who are also experiencing loss. No formal writing experience is necessary, just a desire to write. Each group will begin with a brief excerpt from a published author on an aspect of grief. You will then be given a writing prompt to explore your own grief journey, honoring your own unique loss. After each timed writing session, you will have the opportunity to share your writing in a compassionate, mindful environment, to connect with others, to know that you are not alone as you navigate the wilderness of loss. At the end of the 6 sessions, you will come away with a portfolio of creative, meaningful work.

To watch a video of Ashley giving a talk, “Writing Your Grief,” for the American Alpine Club, click here: Clubhouse Live: Ashley Shires and Andrew Bisharat

To register: Email Ashley.Shires@gmail.com