The Peripatetic offers the most generous critique of any conference bar none in terms of page count. We cover up to 60 pages, plus offer private tutorials on additonal pages for a nominal fee.
Known for small intimate groups and warm yet rigorous critiques of novels, short stories, memoirs and other creative nonfiction, the workshops meet three hours during six mornings, break for lunch, then retire to private rooms for structured quiet time to write and read. Late afternoons, the writers reassemble in the living room for writing exercises, which are often tailored to individual needs. In the evenings the faculty and participants often eat together, then gather for refreshments, readings, discussions about writing and how to tackle craft issues.
The workshops focus on elements of writing, such as point of view, scene, character development, dialogue, the importance of theme, plot development and creation of tension in both fiction and nonfiction writing. The writing exercises often relate to problems evident in the work at hand. We also spend time discussing how to get one's work out into the world.
Participants mail their work a month in advance of the workshops and tutorials, so they can be read by the faculty and writers. This advance reading guarantees good, thoughtful critiques during the week of the workshop. as well as freeing up time for writing and for exploring the Catskills.
The workshops are based upon Martha's and Maureen’s experiences leading the Peripatetic for 32 years, as well as from years of teaching writing at New York University, New York Writers Workshop and other schools and colleges. Award-winning, published authors and free-lance editors with substantial contacts in publishing, they have worked with many writers who have gone on to publish successfully.
“The way (they) read people, anticipate needs, calm anxieties and listen to their stories is invaluable.”
Rick Connor, Siracusa, Sicily
“Provocative and inspiring…I got so much out of the small group of intelligent people and left with incredible ideas how to proceed.”
Ann Vachon, Antigua, Guatemala
“What surprised me most was how well the writing excercises, tied in to each individual's work, went. I got serveral new and usable scenes from them.”
Norma Schofield, Deal