Writing Workshops begin again in September

Over the last 12 weeks, I’ve enjoyed hosting six writing workshops at my home in Santo Estêvão, near Tavira. The sessions attracted writers from across the Eastern Algarve. Some of us will be away from home for the very hot months of July and August, so, we decided to start again on a Thursday morning in September, and thereafter, we will meet once a month. The format will be similar, as we usually agree on a topic and write about a specific aspect of the chosen theme. As the group has built some trust, we’ll prepare beforehand so that the time can be used for sharing our work, reflections, and group feedback.

What We Discovered Along the Way

Over the recent workshops, I’ve been inspired by everyone’s openness, curiosity, and the stories we’ve begun to uncover and share. It’s been a real journey of discovery for all of us.

One of the most important lessons has been the power of personal voice. When we trust in what makes our perspective unique, our stories become authentic and emotionally compelling. Our voice through the written word is our greatest tool. We don’t need to be afraid to own it.

We started by exploring the concept of Origin Stories, the idea that understanding where we come from, our roots, and what has shaped us provides a rich foundation for storytelling. These stories can connect us deeply with ourselves and others while bringing to the fore emotional discord and, perhaps later, even greater clarity and understanding.

Observation has played a significant part in my process work and writing. I’m learning to slow down and notice the details, both while listening and in life. In my writing, I strive to capture fleeting moments or the essence of an ordinary object, transforming simple observations into vivid descriptions. It’s a work in progress.

Creative techniques have been another vital part of our workshop journey, from free writing to prompts and playful exercises with images that help us break through blocks and spark new ideas. Sometimes, giving ourselves permission to play is all we need.

Story structure and flow are essential, too. Crafting stories with a theme and a clear beginning, middle, and end helps our readers follow along and stay engaged. It’s like guiding them on a memorable, twisty, but ultimately satisfying journey.

We’ve also learned the importance of refining our work through editing. This process makes our writing clearer and stronger. It’s where our stories truly come alive. I have been editing a short novella called Blue Eyes and the Secret for nine years. Using a professional editor would have saved me a lot of time, but along the way, I have learned a great deal.

Most importantly, we’ve seen confidence grow. Sharing our work, being vulnerable, and trusting our voices are huge steps. Every story we tell is valuable, and our voices deserve to be heard.

The last workshop explored the concept of Story Arc, understanding the journey our stories take with rising action, tension, and resolution. We considered the difference between the plot and the overall themes of our stories. Recognising the story arc helps us create more compelling narratives that keep our readers engaged from start to finish.

In future, we will share our work via email and come prepared to reflect and provide feedback. So, all in all, we have grown in purpose and process.

Workshop Highlights and What We Learned:

• Origin Stories: Discovering our roots and understanding how our past shapes our writing. These stories ground us and deepen our authenticity.
• Magical Realism: Tapping into the wonder within the every day, blending reality with imagination to create enchanting stories. We considered the works of Gabriel García Márquez and the Mozambican writer Mia Couto.
• Memoir – Our Ancestral Stories: We connected with our heritage and shared powerful family stories that define who we are.
• Writing for Change: We explored ways to utilise our words as tools for advocacy, activism, and fostering social transformation.
• Character and Dialogue: We considered ways to bring our characters to life, endowing them with authentic voices, desires, and conflicts that resonate with readers.
• Story Arc: It is essential to understand the journey of our story and the overall themes that build tension, raise stakes, and guide the story toward a satisfying resolution. It does not have to be a happy ending.

It has been an inspiring journey filled with discovery and growth. I am turning the learning into an online course (soon to be announced) and have started outlining a new book which may or may not see publication.

Let’s keep writing together while exploring the stories that matter, inform and fill up gaps in ourselves. If you want to join in September, then send me an email.

Have an amazing summer!