Just Write - online workshops

"It’s nothing to do with being possessed by the holy poet... The real trick? determination."

One of the things people often say they’re lacking when it comes to creative writing isn’t inspiration or raw talent, it’s actually accountability. Back when Shout or Whisper was just a glint in our eyes, Will and I travelled to Asbury Park, NJ to visit the incredible poet Michael Waters (whom Will had worked with on a university course years prior). 

While discussing everything from local legend Bruce Springsteen to our favourite kinds of sushi, we inevitably ended up on writing beliefs and habits, and it was really Michael’s advice that I believe snowballed into the Just Write sessions offered every Wednesday.

It’s nothing to do with being possessed by the holy poet, nor is it to do with innate ability. The real trick?Determination. It’s finding time to sit down and write, for nobody else other than yourself. (Apologies for the paraphrasing Michael). 

The Workshop Itself

It was this simple but vital approach that we aim to instil each week at Just Write – no pretence or preparation needed, no need to bring anything other than yourself, something to write on/with and the determination to write something. Workshops start online at 19:30, with the course convenor usually kicking things off with some chit-chat and a piece of writing to get everybody in the headspace.

Weeks prior have featured topics such as ekphrasis (alongside Musée des Beaux Arts by W.H. Auden), political protest (bolstered by A Litany for Survival by Audre Lorde), and even a week focusing on pets of famous writers. Did you know George Orwell had a pet goat named Muriel, or that Ernest Hemingway was obsessed with cats, calling them his purr machines. 

Once the chit-chat and formalities are out of the way, attendees simply have an entire hour to, well, just write. Without purpose or intent, continuing a long project or starting something afresh, from haikus and sonnets to monologues and fan-fiction – soundtracked by everyone’s favourite YouTube Lo-Fi Girl.

There’s always time to discuss the works in progress, ask for feedback or advice from other attendees, or just continue chat from the beginning of the session. No expectations, just friendly accountability and an excuse to make yourself time to write for an hour every Wednesday, all from the comfort of your own home. We really hope to see you there!