Shaping Stories

Things happen to us all the time. Some of them we recognize as story-worthy: we want to wrap up the event in some way and share it with others. What are effective ways to share a story, whether fictional or autobiographical? How can we give a story framing – a beginning and an end – that allows it to carry significance and be memorable? How can we make small things -- a short conversation, a chance encounter -- into a story? By contrast, how can we take huge things – a lifetime relationship, a major historical event – and offer them to others in the condensed shape of a story? How can we create a sense of drama as we tell a story on the page?

We will look at examples (most likely by Jhumpa Lahiri, Charlotte Delbo, or Ruth Ozeki) in order to identify and practice specific strategies you will be able to take with you from the workshop.

Writers need no previous experience and will be encouraged to share what they write with others in the workshop, but there is no obligation to share. If writers want, we can schedule a follow-up to this first workshop since there are many ways to build these skills.

Once you register here, you will be sent information on payment. Cost is 400NIS or USD equivalent. Reduced rates available so that no one is unable to participate due to financial need. (Minimum participants 8, maximum 16) Once payment is received, you will be sent texts for the workshop, as well as a zoom link. Please join us!