THE LAKESHORE METHOD

“I want to free what waits within me so that it flows from me like a river, no forcing, no holding back.” – Rilke

LAKESHORE WRITERS Workshops are an outgrowth of the method developed by Pat Schneider, founder of Amherst Writers & Artists. The method is based upon the philosophy that “every person is a writer, and every writer deserves a safe environment in which to experiment, learn, and develop craft.”

At Lakeshore Writers Workshops, we write together in response to prompts timed by the workshop leader. The group responds to the new writing with precise feedback, echoing the strongest aspects of each piece. We do not critique or suggest changes to our workshop writing, as it is fresh and unedited by the author. Craft discussion is woven into each writing session. Opportunities are available for manuscripts critique and encouragement.

New in 2009, Craft of Short Fiction Class will explore the art and craft of short fiction.

All work is treated as fiction to minimize the personal vulnerability of the writer.

Lakeshore Writers Workshops and Classes are kept to a maximum of eight participants.

The AWA method works well with writers of all levels, allowing a safe and supportive environment where new writers can explore the artistry of their own voices, experienced writers can generate new material, and writers and other artists can work through creative blocks.

The workshops are not intended to be therapy, but we believe that writing as a practice is a powerful tool for self discovery and healing for writers from all backgrounds.

Writers who have used the AWA method have published major works and taken top prizes and awards in the U.S. and Ireland.