Now’s the time to register for WICE’s 20th Anniversary Paris Writers’ Workshop. This year’s dates are July 1 to July 6th, 2007. Space fills up quickly, so don’t procrastinate.
I noted that this year’s writing instructors include former Time Magazine writer, Jake Lamar who is actually a Paris resident (he lives in Montmartre).
Kurt Brown, founding director of the Aspen Writers’ Conference will lead a poetry workshop.
A. Manette Ansay who teaches an MFA program in Coral Gables, Florida, as well as Alice Mattison and Phillip Lopate will lead workshops ranging from novel writing to short fiction and non-fiction.
You can read more detailed bios on the WICE website.
My experience at the WICE Paris Writer’s Workshop way back in 1998 was a good one. Dennis Hirson-another Paris resident-shared his love for delving into the essence of converting all your sensory perceptions to the written page.
Of course he asked us all the tough questions too - like - “so you want to write a book about living in Normandy - but WHAT about living in Normandy?”
Don’t expect any writers’ workshop to give you any quick fixes when it comes to writing. I think of writing workshops as going to acupuncture sessions - you might be lucky enough to get some channels unblocked.
But if you’ve always dreamed about writing in Paris - joining a writers’ workshop is a good way to ensure that you’ll do exactly what you intended - rather than spend your days and nights drinking champagne . . . . hmmm but that sounds pretty good too.
WICE is located at 20 Blvd. Montparnasse in the thick of the Left Bank, a stone’s throw from St. Germain des Pres and Hemingway haunts. If you feel overwhelmed by the literary titans who have preceded you, don’t get writer’s block over it. Have another glass of bubbly instead. If you’re not a writer and have no desire to write, WICE also lists many of the English speaking events in the arts and fashion that you can attend while in Paris. It’s worth it to become a member even if you don’t plan on being in Paris for the entire year. Come for French lessons or just to meet with other expats in a friendly and welcoming environment.
I’m glad a friend, Mark, who’s been living in France for many years now, told me about WICE. WICE is Nice - umm that’s the extent of my poetic talent. Sorry!
Subscribe
|
Print
|
Share             
|
