Make the Most of Writers Retreats and Workshops
How to Prepare for and Learn From Different Writing Seminars
Oct 30, 2009
Writing a book is not the easy task that it might seem to outsiders. Most authors have heard non-writers say breezily "Oh, you're writing a book? I might do that one day myself; sounds like a good way to make a living!"
Yeah, right. The author rolls her eyes, knowing that the person making the comment has no idea of the pure slog involved in writing most novels. Yes, it can be hugely enjoyable (which is what keeps most writers plugging away, day after day) but there's a lot of hard work involved too. Authors invest not only time, but a goodly proportion of their income in building their skills.
Apart from buying 'how to' books on writing and subscribing to professional magazines, writers frequently sign up for workshops, conferences, seminars and retreats. These things all cost money – sometimes a lot of money. It's important that this investment is repaid by measurable benefits to the writer. Different workshops or retreats offer different things. The writer has to make a decision: is it more important to network, or to hone technique? To find out about the publishing scene, or to get feedback on the writer's work in progress?
1. Not All Writers Retreats are Equal
A writer's retreat is a period of time away from friends and family, in the company of other writers. It's usually a fairly intensive time, and a lot of emotions can come to the fore. The process of focusing intensely on writing, with feedback from professionals and other writers, shines a light not only on strengths but on weaknesses. Writers can experience highs and lows; euphoria when things are going right, and periods of self-doubt. Therefore it's important that the retreat is well-organised and well-run. Staff have to be empathetic and helpful.
Any writer preparing to invest hard-earned cash in a writer's retreat should research it carefully first. Look for testimonials from previous attendees, and for results in the form of published novels. In addition, check out the guest list: agents, editors, and published authors who will be visiting to speak to participants.
Expect to get to know fellow writers very well over the course of the writer's retreat. Friendships can be forged that last a lifetime.
2. Which Is Best: Writing Workshop, Writer's Seminar or Writers Conference?
Writing onferences are excellent for networking and specialist information. A weekend conference will probably feature keynote speeches, author/agent talks, discussion panels and breakout sessions. Experienced attendees quickly learn that it's wise to take advantage of "earlybird" bookings: it's usually cheaper and it's a case of 'first in first served' when it comes to popular breakout sessions. Start looking for suitable conferences early, and be ready to sign up as soon as bookings open. Book accommodation right away, too, if there are limited rooms at the conference venue.
A writing seminar is similar to a conference, but may run for just one day rather than over two or three days. A seminar may be organised and chaired by one well-known writer, editor or agent rather than by a committee from a national organisation. It often features just one or two speakers rather than a range of speakers.
A writers' workshop is usually very tightly focused and may run for anything from one hour to a full day. (A retreat may be called a "Writers Retreat Workshop" because it teaches different aspects of the craft as well as allowing writers time to work on their novels.) Writers attending a workshop can usually expect to (a) spend time doing writing exercises and (b) to be given tips on technique. Workshops are usually small enough to allow plenty of interaction and questions.
Writers looking for the best writers retreat, writers conference or workshop can be overwhelmed by what is on offer. The best thing to do is to sit down and think carefully not only about the total cost (although this is important!) but about individual needs. A good writers' retreat or an information-packed national conference can shorten an author's learning curve by months – or even years – as writers learn about common mistakes to avoid, and what publishers really want. Most writers consider this to be money well spent.
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