Writing & Publishing the Travel Essay (February 7, San Francisco)
The Grotto
- San Francisco, CA
February 7
to
March 21, 2013
Instructor: Lavinia Spalding (google+)
Travel cracks open the mind, and the stories that result can be transformative, terrifying, humorous, and humbling. Discoveries made in foreign lands have the capacity to change who we are as people, and certainly who we are as writers. Do you have a travel tale you’re ready to unleash? Here’s your chance.
In this six-session workshop, you’ll write and revise a personal travel essay, then take steps to get it published. Along the way, we’ll cover the basics of narrative travel writing, from beginning to end, including structure, dialogue, setting, characterization, and story arc. You’ll develop and strengthen your writing voice, awaken your senses, and come to recognize your juiciest, most compelling material. In addition to writing and revising your own story, you’ll read a few published pieces and we’ll talk about what made these essays successful. This is a great opportunity to learn from a professional travel editor not only what an editor looks for in story submissions, but also the invaluable skill of viewing your own writing with an editor’s eye so you can make difficult but essential revisions. We’ll go over tips for submitting writing and working with editors, and you’ll come away with a list of print and online publication outlets. Each class will begin with lively, innovative writing exercises and end with a glass of wine. If you’ve ever aspired to being a published travel writer, consider this your passport.
The Grotto, 490 2nd Street, San Francisco, CA
Reviews
As a total newbie to writing, Lavinia's workshop class helped build my skills and confidence. Each week she taught and led us through great writing tips and techniques. Her workshopping process created a safe and supportive space for me to explore and expose my writing style and the story I wanted to share. I highly recommend this class for newbies and experienced students alike! "
Paige Mantel, former student (Writing & Publishing the Travel Essay)
I discovered Lavinia's travel essay workshop at the last minute and am so thankful I was able to join. She taught us about story structure and style and encouraged us to implement what we learned into our own travel essays. Terrific teacher and class - highly recommend!"
Jennifer Kelley, former student (Writing & Publishing the Travel Essay)