Do You Need to be a “Writer” to Go on a Writing Retreat?

Posted on 04. Mar, 2009 by Joanna in Creativity, FAQs

I know that a lot of people worry they might not be ‘enough’ of a writer to go on a writing holiday or writing retreat.  I hope by reading this post we can persuade you otherwise!

You most certainly do not need to be a professional writer or published author to come on the writing retreat in Sardinia.

The week away will be perfect if you:

  • Enjoy writing, and want the time and space to indulge it, or develop it
  • Write in one style, and want to stretch and explore a different writing form
  • Have always wanted to write, but never had the encouragement or support to do so
  • Enjoy blogging, and wonder what other kinds of writing might be fun or exciting to try
  • Write as part of your job, and want to take it to another level – a book about your business perhaps
  • Are making changes in your life, and think writing will be part of your future
  • Are making changes in your life, and know that writing, creativity and self-expression is part of your transition
  • Have a writing project that’s been on the backburner for ages, and you want to push it forward
  • Enjoy holidays where you can learn new things, and develop your creativity

Convinced now?  I hope so :-)

Some other questions we’re asked:

Are you going to focus on one particular writing genre?

No.  We’ll give you some prompts and exercises to get you writing but the form that takes will vary on who you are and how you like to write.  There’s plenty of space in the programme for you to work on your own project (if you have one).

What kind of writing programme can I expect?

The daily programme will include around two-hours of group conversation, exercises and writing in the morning with free time in the afternoon to do whatever you want.  We assume that will include writing!  But you might also want to siesta, walk, explore, daydream, go shopping..  There’ll be a chance for feedback and conversations about your writing over  dinner at night.

English isn’t my first language – can I still come?

If you write or want to write in English then… why not?  Our emphasis is on making you feel supported and confident in what you do and the words you want to share.  Emma teaches English as a second language (with one of her many hats on) and her experience will certainly help you to get the most from the week with us.

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2 Responses to “Do You Need to be a “Writer” to Go on a Writing Retreat?”

  1. Jean 4 March 2009 at 2:57 pm #

    Hi
    I have put my creative nonfiction book aside and am writing what I would call a memoir. I like the idea of a writing workhop in Sardinia because I’ve heard that it is a beautiful place . The time away will give me structured time to write and enjoy the area with others. I am considering the workshop.
    Jean

  2. Emma Bird 6 March 2009 at 10:48 am #

    Hi Jean

    Thanks for dropping by, saying hello and sharing your goal of memoir writing. It’s good to hear you get the same feeling about Sardinia that we do as a place to write.

    This corner of the island is indeed beautiful – I fell in love with its charms four years ago. But it boasts so much more than just a breathtaking landscape. It offers a very special atmosphere that will both nurture and energise you. I’ve found it to be the ideal place to move my writing along.

    One of the things the area is renowned for is the hospitality of the locals. Laura, our host at Ca La’ Somara, is a wonderful example. Nothing is too much trouble for her and she goes out of her way to make guests feel welcome. And she’s more than happy for us to take over the grounds and write wherever we feel most at ease.

    If you’ve any questions about this part of Sardinia I now call home, please do let me know.


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