Telling True Stories: An Exploration of the Art of Literary Craft

Writing isn’t magic. But the best writing can be magical. It can transport us — taking us into new worlds, expanding our understanding, making us think and wonder and want to know more.

We expect those things of fiction and poetry, just as we do of any art.

But what of nonfiction? Longform journalism for magazines or books, biography, memoir, essays, travel and lifestyle pieces, family history. Can stories grounded in the demands of fact reach the higher planes of storytelling?

The answer is an emphatic yes — if you know how to summon the creative muse of art by becoming a masterful mechanic of craft.

This workshop will elevate your mastery. It will give you tools to turn an abstract or static piece into a compelling, memorable story and the support to take creative risks.

Whether you are a student or award-winning journalist, an academic researcher or the person who collects your family’s stories, someone with a book idea that won’t let them go or a nudge of an idea that hasn’t taken shape, or simply someone who is compelled to write — this week is designed to help you sharpen your focus and find your unique writing voice.

We’ll do fun writing exercises using prompts from your own life and what’s around us. You can apply targeted tools to other exercises or your own work-in progress. Each of you will have an optional one-on-one coaching session. By week’s end, you will have written something that surprises and delights you and gives you the courage to keep writing!

The week will be a mix of in-class craft discussions, writing and peer coaching. Through the week, we will explore:

• The essential elements of a memorable story
• How to focus a vague idea into a manageable project
• How to report and interview to gather the raw material you need
• How to bring real-life characters to the page
• Using scenes that draw readers forward even as you bend time
• Details that reveal rather than decorate
• Foundational structures that support unlimited creativity
• Pacing a story for power and readability
• The dual imperatives of intimacy and ethics
• How to read like a writer and become your own best self-editor
• How to identify your own pattern writing strengths and challenges
• How to get past perfectionist writer’s block and WRITE!

“Five days with MISA and my mentor Jacqui in 2019 were the best continuing education of my professional life.” ~ Line Vaaben, award-winning European literary journalist

Workshop Schedule:
Sunday Night: Welcome Reception at 6pm
Monday – Friday: 9am – 4pm
*Subject to change*