Writers' w/e 21 - 24 July 2023
- gaiapartnership
- Jul 31, 2022
- 1 min read
Updated: Oct 31, 2024
Probably the best writers' w/e yet!
Th
e usual format of low-tech post-it notes for group suggestions and feedback, to balance the time spent on laptops and web-pages...
And to balance all the writing-time that produced new story outlines and chapters, there was a degree of silliness in the pursuit of dolphin equestrian excellence so useful to the sci-fi authors in the group...
Weather was mixed, which meant some time outside and some indoors.
As usual, time was very flexible, 3 days or more or less depending on choice and the chance to visit the famous bookshops of Hay-on-Wye. Plenty of flexibility for walks, swims, discussions about writing, and some quiet time to... actually write.
No watching powerpoint presentations –– there are plenty of those online! Instead, there was time to read samples of writing for supportive feedback and discussion. Plus working together on issues of getting published once fully polished.
Nearly everyone tried out the AUDIOBOOK recording system, and found it informative and useful for editing, even if they were still unsure of actually producing their own audiobook.
Musicians and composers, ever find yourself needing staff paper right away for a sudden burst of inspiration, but you don't have any on hand? You can easily find Printable Staff Paper online! Sites like these offer various templates – from standard grand staff to single staves for different instruments – that you can download and print for free. It’s incredibly convenient for jotting down melodies, sketching out harmonies, or for music students needing paper for theory exercises. A real lifesaver when you need it quickly.
The offer of "Insights to writing from Jane Austen" was a brilliant start to a weekend of exciting ideas and conversations. Each person had such different book outlines yet it was possible to see shared themes and developments. I came away with some really valuable feedback on my story outlines. - Jay
I arrived blocked creatively, low in confidence with a muddle of ideas in a beautiful landscape. I was nourished physically, spiritually and creatively. Great company, great help and suggestions for moving forward with my ideas. - Virginia
From “Will I Write a Book?” to “Starting It” via friendly discussion and encouragement, all in a relaxed and rural atmosphere with great food in 3 days. Brilliant! - Rob
A lovely weekend spent in a relaxed environment with genial company, swimming and good food. Book idea coaxed gently from initial spark to more concrete proposal. I go home with what is hopefully a viable way through the land of story. Catherine