Writing from Memory - the Risks we take

What do you do when... a workshopper at the latest Carrotsmash writing workshop @PocklingtonArts uses, for her final piece, her memory of the moment when she held her dying baby in her arms?

Thank her profusely, that's what you do - for taking the risk to 1) recall it in a group situation 2) write it down and 3) share it out loud with us.

It never fails to amaze me how these Writing from Memory workshops produce such moving, expressive writing. My task is to create the right group atmosphere so that writers feel they can share - this lady began the workshop by saying how intimidated she felt. Yet 3 hours later, she produced a finely crafted, sensory piece that articulated her grief all too clearly.

She thanked me at the end - but I was the one who wanted to thank her for her bravery.

Ali x
www.carrotsmash.co.uk

Carrotsmash at Pocklington Arts Centre

Morning all! Autumn term is well under way now and the first of our Carrotsmash Writing Workshops at Pocklington Arts Centre @PocklingtonArts went down a storm! Here's what our latest group of workshoppers thought...

'I really cannot fault the course in any way - the only way I feel it could be improved is to last longer. Thank you so much!'

'I liked the pace - I liked the instruction, time to think, and the time to write - I really enjoyed the session and it got me thinking.'

'Good structure - playing around then on to more serious writing. Not intimidating.'

'Words to describe today: Rounded, professional, peaceful, unrushed but had pace, supportive, focused, challenging.'

'I like the freedom to just write. Everyone has a story, it's their choice to write it, all they have to do is pick up a pen.'

On to the next... October 14 'Stuff for Writers' @PocklingtonArts