My Jagged Journey as a Debut Writer

Writing Retreats: The Pros and Cons

Some writers dream about having an opportunity to attend a writing retreat. I confess I have never attended one, so I thought I’d explore the ups and downs of doing so.

I’ve spoken to some women writers about their experiences and did a little research about what I found and heard.

·      Probably the best reason for attending a retreat is to have dedicated time away from your daily routine, especially if you are still working or parenting, to focus solely on writing. A retreat can help writers make significant progress on their projects, e.g., finishing a manuscript, starting a new one, or overcoming writer’s block. Participants often feel a sense of accomplishment from dedicated writing time, which can boost a writer’s confidence.

   I have found that getting away from my home/family for a few days in a different location allows me to focus on writing without a retreat. I’ve been able to set aside at least five to six hours a day for writing or editing, with meal prep and long walks in nature to keep me going.

·      Most retreats have structured workshops in addition to time for writing. This offers a significant opportunity to strengthen our craft in writing. Some focus on particular genres, e.g., fiction, creative non-fiction, playwriting, and poetry. Finding the retreat that works for you is critical.

·      Retreats provide an immersion in a community of like-minded individuals – and access to published authors who frequently lead writers’ retreats. These leaders may inspire creativity, impart new craft techniques, or bring innovative ideas that stimulate your writing.

o   While I often listen to Zoom lessons in my private retreat or connect with writing buddies, it’s not an immersive experience similar to what can be found in a group setting. I’d love to spend time with some of my favorite writing instructors whose classes I’ve enjoyed. Allison Wearing, one of my favorite instructors, runs retreats in Tuscany and at home, providing guidance and some live interaction time.

·      Another significant benefit is receiving constructive feedback and guidance from experienced writers, editors, or agents, which can significantly improve participants’ craft. Most writing retreats encourage participants to share their writing with the group or break into small groups to make sharing more manageable. Sometimes, the best benefit is simply the opportunity to meet with visiting editors, literary agents, and publishers, who may assist you on your path to publishing.

o   Some friends found affirmation at their retreats but missed receiving constructive criticism or suggestions on improving their writing. For others, the affirmation alone may be just what is needed to continue to pursue writing. Either way, don’t expect to have the leaders read your entire manuscript; participants usually have an opportunity to share a few chapters.

·       Networking is another amazing gift that can be found at writing retreats. Working together brings collaboration among writers who can offer support and industry insights during and after the retreat. One friend is still in touch with the women she met at her retreat every month via Zoom.

·      Sometimes, the structure writers find at retreats can help to carve out similar schedules when returning home, e.g., finding the right time of day to write, dedicating a specific amount of time each day (or however many days of the week work best for you), and figuring out whether writing by hand or using a computer works best. In short, establishing a productive writing routine that mimics the retreat can be a great takeaway.

·      I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that many retreats take place in beautiful, natural locations, often in international locations. There is usually time to enjoy nature, have delicious meals prepared for you, and experience a few fun activities. Who doesn’t want a vacation … of sorts?

While attending a writing retreat can be beneficial, there are some obstacles that participants may face:

·      Writing retreats can be expensive, covering accommodation, meals, workshops, and travel expenses. This is especially true of international retreats in a remote setting. Finding the financial resources to pay for the retreat can make it impossible for many writers. The costs often range from a few hundred for short, local retreats to $7,000 plus. Many retreat centers offer scholarships. Believe it or not, some of the retreats are free – to encourage the participation of BIPOC, LGBTQ, and debut artists/writers in the making.

·      Most retreats take place over several days or weeks, and many writers cannot spend time away from demanding jobs, family commitments, or other personal obligations.

·      Some popular retreats can be highly competitive and have limited spots, making it difficult to secure a place. Even if accepted, sometimes the pressure to be productive in a short, intensive period can be daunting, and some writers may find it challenging to meet their own or others’ expectations.

·      Not all retreat locations are accessible for individuals with disabilities or requiring specific accommodations. Some individuals might have health conditions that make travel or intensive work periods difficult, requiring careful consideration and planning.

Despite these obstacles, many writers find the benefits of attending a retreat outweigh the challenges. Planning ahead, seeking out scholarships or grants, and choosing a retreat that fits one's personal needs and circumstances can help address some of these challenges.

Some renowned writing retreats known for their quality programs, beautiful settings, and supportive environments are listed below. Most are closed for this summer.

·      Bread Load Writers’ Conference in Vermont, USA (https://www.middlebury.edu/writers-conferences/writers-conference) is one of the oldest and most prestigious writers’ conferences, offering workshops, lectures, and readings in a scenic mountain setting.

·      Tin House Summer Workshop in Oregon https://tinhouse.com/workshop/summer-workshop-2/ offers workshops, readings, one-on-one meetings with editors and agents, and a vibrant community of writers with a priority for BIPOC writers.

·      Hedgebrook in Washington https://www.hedgebrook.org/writers-in-residence is a free two-to-three-week retreat for women writers.

·       The Banff Center for Arts and Creativity in Alberta, Canada https://www.banffcentre.ca/literary-arts is a retreat that offers a variety of programs and residencies for writers, providing time, space, and resources to focus on their work in a stunning mountain setting dedicated to supporting the best in new prose writing, poetry, journalism, memoir, and translation with those topics reflected in our evolving offerings.

·      Martha’s Vineyard Institute of Creative Writing in Massachusetts https://www.mvicw.com/fellowships offers writing residencies and summer conference workshops in a picturesque island setting, with opportunities for one-on-one mentorship.

·      Hunter Moon Homestead https://huntermoonhomestead.com/products/jump-start-your-memoir offers a two-day writing retreat with one workshop daily.

·      Writers Retreat in Montbernard, France https://bookretreats.com/r/9-day-personalized-writers-retreat-in-montbernard-france

There are dozens of more retreats available. These retreats provide valuable opportunities for writers to immerse themselves in their work, gain new insights, and connect with other writers in beautiful and inspiring environments.

If you have a retreat that you want to recommend, please post it so readers can learn from you.