Calendar of Events
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3 events,
THE SCRIBES: A CLUB FOR 18-25 YEAR OLD WRITERS
THE SCRIBES: A CLUB FOR 18-25 YEAR OLD WRITERS
Are you a young adult, college student or otherwise, looking to meet fellow writers? Then join us every2nd and 4th Sunday from 4-6PM to write, socialize, and eat snacks. Each meeting will have a critique section, as well as time to write and share. Open to anyone 18-25 interested in any form of creative writing.…
The Lyric Poem: ‘What The Heart Wants to Say’
The Lyric Poem: ‘What The Heart Wants to Say’
Mostly what we wrestle with as poets is understanding what we 'feel' and finding the language that moves others to feel 'with' us. In this class, we will examine emotionally rich poems and, with prompts, work on our own poems with an intense focus on how feeling informs the text and, most importantly, the reader.
The Prose Poetry Workshop
The Prose Poetry Workshop
Do you find that your poetry lives in the space between poetry and prose? Do you enjoy playing with hybridity in your work? The Prose Poetry Workshop is the place for you! The Prose Poetry Workshop is a workshop in which we will read, discuss, and workshop prose poems. This class will offer multiple opportunities…
5 events,
The Not Ready For Workshop Writers
The Not Ready For Workshop Writers
Writers will read about six minutes of something they have written, then receive gentle feedback from other members of the club. Ages 18 and up. All levels of writing experience. Writers will meet in the auditorium, at the rear of the the Muse.
Accountability Class
Accountability Class
In this multi-genre class, students will be given prompts and we will use class time to write together. Writers of all genres and all skill levels are encouraged to join in, and each student will be encouraged to create their own goal as to what they hope to get done on their current writing project.…
Draft Collab: A Supportive Workshop for Writers With a Manuscript to Finish
Draft Collab: A Supportive Workshop for Writers With a Manuscript to Finish
If you've got a draft you're working on and are looking for a hivemind of fellow writers to help steer your story in the direction you want it to go, then this workshop is for you! We'll be taking an author-first approach, giving supportive feedback that is mindful of each writer's intentions for their own…
The Intermediate Poetry Workshop
The Intermediate Poetry Workshop
The Poetry Workshop continues with returning members and new members having poetry writing experience. Fresh, intriguing poetry prompts offer group members the opportunity to experiment with various styles, forms, subjects and themes, and in doing so, will clarify their own voices as they actively write and revise original poems. Each workshop will include consideration of…
Nonfiction in a Flash
Nonfiction in a Flash
In this workshop, creative nonfiction and memoir writers will explore the genre of flash creative nonfiction (between 500 and 1,000 words). We will discuss and discover the many craft elements that make flash nonfiction an engaging, experimental and exciting genre! Every session we will generate and critique our small memoir and nonfiction stories and essays…
4 events,
Write Now! at Slover Library
Write Now! at Slover Library
Find The Muse and WRITE NOW! Do you wonder if you can write? Have you always wanted to write a story? Are you looking for a little inspiration? Do you need a little creative motivation? Well, we believe that everyone has a story and everyone can write it. You just need some inspiration and motivation!…
The Yearlong Fiction Studio with Michele Young-Stone
The Yearlong Fiction Studio with Michele Young-Stone
Complete or revise your book-length manuscript in this intensive, 11-month fiction-writing studio. Led by critically acclaimed novelist Michele Young-Stone (Above Us Only Sky, Lost in the Beehive, and The Handbook for Lightning Strike Survivors), this advanced-level course is tailored for serious writers ready to take their craft to the next level. Meeting twice monthly, participants…
Plot Hospital: A Collective Workshop for Arranging, Sequencing, and Structuring
Plot Hospital: A Collective Workshop for Arranging, Sequencing, and Structuring
Got a story idea that’s flatlining? A manuscript in need of intensive care? Welcome to Plot Hospital, a hands-on, collaborative workshop designed to resuscitate and strengthen your narrative structure. Whether you’re a novelist, screenwriter, or storyteller of any kind, this workshop focuses on diagnosing plot weaknesses, stitching together disconnected scenes, and breathing new life into your…
4×4 Fiction Studio: A Deep Dive into Your Stories
4×4 Fiction Studio: A Deep Dive into Your Stories
This fiction workshop offers a unique opportunity for four dedicated writers to develop and refine their work over four intensive sessions. Each participant will submit two longer pieces, up to 30,000 words each, allowing for in-depth exploration of two short stories or substantial sections of a novel. Through personalized feedback and group discussions, participants will…
2 events,
Wednesday Wordsmiths!
Wednesday Wordsmiths!
Unlock your creative potential with the Wednesday Wordsmiths at The Muse Writers Center! Join us every Wednesday from 5-7pm for an inspiring and collaborative writing experience. Whether you're a seasoned wordsmith or just starting your literary journey, our group welcomes all. Bring your latest writings to share with fellow enthusiasts, or dive into our engaging…
The Yearlong Genre Fiction Studio with Wendy Higgins
The Yearlong Genre Fiction Studio with Wendy Higgins
Embark on an immersive 11-month journey to craft your genre fiction manuscript with the guidance of Wendy Higgins, a USA Today and New York Times bestselling author renowned for her young adult and adult genre romance, including fantasy, paranormal, sci-fi, mythology, and contemporary works. With years of experience navigating the publishing world, Wendy has successfully…
2 events,
2025 Spring Teen Fellowship Class
Find Your Muse: Screenwriting Exploration
Find Your Muse: Screenwriting Exploration
Lights, camera, action! This workshop invites you to explore the exciting world of screenwriting. Learn how to craft compelling dialogue, plot engaging scenes, and create characters that leap off the page. Through interactive exercises and collaborative discussion, you’ll experiment with writing for film and TV, whether you’re a first-timer or looking to reignite your passion…
0 events,
4 events,
Queer Writers Meet-up @ Eleanor’s NFK
Queer Writers Meet-up @ Eleanor’s NFK
Calling all queer writers! Join us every first Saturday in person at Eleanor's Norfolk from 10-11. This is a space to meet up with other local creatives, meet new friends, and talk all things writing. Looking to get some words on the page? Come to our Rainbow Write-in at the Muse every third Tuesday. Co-hosted…
Exploring “Hermit Crab” Poems
Exploring “Hermit Crab” Poems
Hermit Crab poetry takes its name from the subgenre of creative non-fiction in which the writing takes refuge in a found form. From bingo boards to recipes to Punnett squares, any “shell” can become the creative home for a poem. What environments do different found forms offer to our writing? How do we, as writers,…
Fantastical Worlds: A Writing Group for Speculative Fiction
Fantastical Worlds: A Writing Group for Speculative Fiction
Speculative fiction is an umbrella genre of fiction that encompasses all the subgenres that depart from realism, or strictly imitating everyday reality, instead presenting fantastical, supernatural, futuristic, or other imaginative realms. Does this describe your writing? If so, come join us for our monthly speculative fiction writers gathering! A unique blend of craft talk, brain…
Ruthless, Radical Revision for Novelists
Ruthless, Radical Revision for Novelists
Ernest Hemmingway has said “The only kind of writing is rewriting,” and Michael Crichton noted "Books aren't written - they're rewritten." Nearly every professional writer has their own version of this advice, so in this workshop, we'll dive into the rewriting process to help you take your novel to the next level. First, we'll discuss…
2 events,
Visual Journaling: A Creative Fresh Start
Visual Journaling: A Creative Fresh Start
Reignite your creativity and embrace a fresh start with this unique workshop! Step away from traditional writing routines and discover how combining words with visual elements can unlock new ideas. We’ll explore simple art techniques to dive into our stream of consciousness and draw inspiration from other artists’ journals. By the end of the session,…
The Lyric Poem: ‘What The Heart Wants to Say’
The Lyric Poem: ‘What The Heart Wants to Say’
Mostly what we wrestle with as poets is understanding what we 'feel' and finding the language that moves others to feel 'with' us. In this class, we will examine emotionally rich poems and, with prompts, work on our own poems with an intense focus on how feeling informs the text and, most importantly, the reader.
4 events,
The Not Ready For Workshop Writers
The Not Ready For Workshop Writers
Writers will read about six minutes of something they have written, then receive gentle feedback from other members of the club. Ages 18 and up. All levels of writing experience. Writers will meet in the auditorium, at the rear of the the Muse.
The Fiction Studio
The Fiction Studio
The Fiction Studio continues with returning members and new members with professional fiction workshop experience. We will actively write and revise original short stories and chapters of novels as well as consider various aspects of the creative and professional life of the fiction writer. All members of the group will have the opportunity to submit…
Horror Writing Fundamentals
Horror Writing Fundamentals
Do you like to tell scary stories? In this class, we'll discuss the components of well-known horror stories and go over some of the techniques writers use to create strong, vivid, believable storylines, from the different ways a story can begin all the way to a satisfying conclusion. We’ll then write and share our own…
Self-Discovery through Memoir
Self-Discovery through Memoir
In this class, we will discover the lens(es) through we which we will look at our lives; we will discover ourselves as a character and learn how to write honestly and compassionately. We will draw correlations between repeated/patterned events. We will attempt to more fully understand the actions of others, which will lead us to…
1 event,
Writers Zoom Meet-Up
Writers Zoom Meet-Up
Join The Muse on the first Tuesday of each month* for our monthly Writers Zoom Meet-Up, an informal get-together where writers from anywhere in the world enjoy conversation, camaraderie, and discussion about what we're working on. Breakout rooms by genre will be available. Let's get together and build connections with other writers and learn more…
3 events,
Wednesday Wordsmiths!
Wednesday Wordsmiths!
Unlock your creative potential with the Wednesday Wordsmiths at The Muse Writers Center! Join us every Wednesday from 5-7pm for an inspiring and collaborative writing experience. Whether you're a seasoned wordsmith or just starting your literary journey, our group welcomes all. Bring your latest writings to share with fellow enthusiasts, or dive into our engaging…
Blueprint for a Novel
Blueprint for a Novel
This course will walk writers through an outlining and revising process that can be applied to their next novel whether you’re a plotter or a pantser. We’ll not only look at basic character development and create an outline of your plot but will also consider the audience and marketing of your book so that you…
Screenwriting 3: Refining & Pitching Your Script
5 events,
Fiction 3: Deeper into Voice & Revision (Mornings)
Find Your Muse: Screenwriting Exploration
Find Your Muse: Screenwriting Exploration
Lights, camera, action! This workshop invites you to explore the exciting world of screenwriting. Learn how to craft compelling dialogue, plot engaging scenes, and create characters that leap off the page. Through interactive exercises and collaborative discussion, you’ll experiment with writing for film and TV, whether you’re a first-timer or looking to reignite your passion…
Fiction 3: Deeper into Voice & Revision (Evenings)
Find Your Muse: Creative Nonfiction Exploration
Find Your Muse: Creative Nonfiction Exploration
Discover the art of telling true stories creatively in this workshop designed to inspire and engage. Creative nonfiction blends the factual with the imaginative, allowing you to craft compelling narratives from real-life events. Using prompts, brainstorming exercises, and inspiring readings, you’ll explore personal essays, memoirs, and other nonfiction styles. Whether you’re writing about your life,…
Find Your Muse: Essay Exploration
Find Your Muse: Essay Exploration
Rediscover the essay as a versatile and creative medium for expression! In this workshop, we’ll explore various forms of essays—from narrative reflections to op-eds, lyrical musings, and beyond. Through inspiring prompts, examples from diverse writers, and guided discussions, you’ll experiment with blending personal stories and ideas in unique ways. Whether you’re revisiting this familiar form…
1 event,
Writers Coffee Break
Writers Coffee Break
Join us for our monthly 1st Friday Writers Coffee Breaks at Cafe Stella in Ghent! At these informal get-togethers, area writers and Muse teachers, students, and friends enjoy conversation and camaraderie over a (perhaps much needed) coffee break. Each month will be hosted by different Muse teachers, who will be available to answer questions from…
5 events,
Creative Writing Exploration for Middle School Youth
Creative Writing Exploration for Middle School Youth
Creative Writing for Middle School Youth (ages 11 to younger 14-year-olds) explores the fundamentals of creative writing and encourages each student to find their individual writing voice, no matter the genre (poetry, fiction, comics, songwriting, and screenwriting). Students will explore their creative expression through unique prompts, exercises, in-class writing, and opportunities to share and discuss…
Creative Writing for High School Teens (Hybrid)
Creative Writing for High School Teens (Hybrid)
Creative Writing for High School Teens encourages students to expand their creative writing by challenging them to elevate their creative voices with new writing techniques. During class, students learn literary craft techniques through lessons, exercises, and prompts. Popular topics include villain archetypes, magic system basics, how to write a fight scene, poetry, screenwriting, and more!…
Young Writers Workshop
Young Writers Workshop
The Young Writers Workshop explores a wide variety of genres and topics, including poetry, fiction, comics, and songwriting! During class, students engage their creative expression through various prompts, exercises, in-class writing sessions, and opportunities to share their work. All forms of creative writing are welcome. This course is open to all young writers in 3rd…
Exploring “Hermit Crab” Poems
Exploring “Hermit Crab” Poems
Hermit Crab poetry takes its name from the subgenre of creative non-fiction in which the writing takes refuge in a found form. From bingo boards to recipes to Punnett squares, any “shell” can become the creative home for a poem. What environments do different found forms offer to our writing? How do we, as writers,…
Roll For Discussion: TTRPG Club
Roll For Discussion: TTRPG Club
The next best thing to playing TTRPGs is talking about them. Want to gush about that cool thing that happened in your game? Need to workshop your character backstory or your world’s obscure magical lore? Finished your cosplay or found the perfect specialty dice and want to show them off? Whether you are a player,…
4 events,
Food For Thought
Food For Thought
Families, come to The Muse Writers Center for Lunch and a creative writing Workshop! Come to The Muse every 2nd Sunday for a catered lunch event and writing workshop! Participants use the written word to explore food, family and culture. This event brings generational families with children together to reflect on their cultures through recipes…
THE SCRIBES: A CLUB FOR 18-25 YEAR OLD WRITERS
THE SCRIBES: A CLUB FOR 18-25 YEAR OLD WRITERS
Are you a young adult, college student or otherwise, looking to meet fellow writers? Then join us every2nd and 4th Sunday from 4-6PM to write, socialize, and eat snacks. Each meeting will have a critique section, as well as time to write and share. Open to anyone 18-25 interested in any form of creative writing.…
Syntax and Surprise: Ways Into (and Out) of the Poem
Syntax and Surprise: Ways Into (and Out) of the Poem
We've heard it said that writing must engage from the outset, and must keep us interested until the very end. How can we leverage the grammar and syntax of the poem alongside its other elements, to lead us (and our readers) to moments of greater pleasure, insight, and surprise; as well as toward more effective…
Scary Stories: Writing Club
Scary Stories: Writing Club
Do you write scary stories? Things that go bump in the night? Creepy crawlies, paranormal, dark forests, monsters, real life horrors, all are welcome. Come write with fellow horror writers, prompts will be available! Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87902170614
5 events,
The Not Ready For Workshop Writers
The Not Ready For Workshop Writers
Writers will read about six minutes of something they have written, then receive gentle feedback from other members of the club. Ages 18 and up. All levels of writing experience. Writers will meet in the auditorium, at the rear of the the Muse.
Accountability Class
Accountability Class
In this multi-genre class, students will be given prompts and we will use class time to write together. Writers of all genres and all skill levels are encouraged to join in, and each student will be encouraged to create their own goal as to what they hope to get done on their current writing project.…
Draft Collab: A Supportive Workshop for Writers With a Manuscript to Finish
Draft Collab: A Supportive Workshop for Writers With a Manuscript to Finish
If you've got a draft you're working on and are looking for a hivemind of fellow writers to help steer your story in the direction you want it to go, then this workshop is for you! We'll be taking an author-first approach, giving supportive feedback that is mindful of each writer's intentions for their own…
Nonfiction in a Flash
Nonfiction in a Flash
In this workshop, creative nonfiction and memoir writers will explore the genre of flash creative nonfiction (between 500 and 1,000 words). We will discuss and discover the many craft elements that make flash nonfiction an engaging, experimental and exciting genre! Every session we will generate and critique our small memoir and nonfiction stories and essays…
The Intermediate Poetry Workshop
The Intermediate Poetry Workshop
The Poetry Workshop continues with returning members and new members having poetry writing experience. Fresh, intriguing poetry prompts offer group members the opportunity to experiment with various styles, forms, subjects and themes, and in doing so, will clarify their own voices as they actively write and revise original poems. Each workshop will include consideration of…
4 events,
Kids & Teens Write Now! at Slover Library
Kids & Teens Write Now! at Slover Library
Find The Muse and WRITE NOW! Do you wonder if you can write? Have you always wanted to write a story? Are you looking for a little inspiration? Do you need a little creative motivation? Well, we believe that everyone has a story and everyone can write it. You just need some inspiration and motivation!…
The Yearlong Fiction Studio with Michele Young-Stone
The Yearlong Fiction Studio with Michele Young-Stone
Complete or revise your book-length manuscript in this intensive, 11-month fiction-writing studio. Led by critically acclaimed novelist Michele Young-Stone (Above Us Only Sky, Lost in the Beehive, and The Handbook for Lightning Strike Survivors), this advanced-level course is tailored for serious writers ready to take their craft to the next level. Meeting twice monthly, participants…
Plot Hospital: A Collective Workshop for Arranging, Sequencing, and Structuring
Plot Hospital: A Collective Workshop for Arranging, Sequencing, and Structuring
Got a story idea that’s flatlining? A manuscript in need of intensive care? Welcome to Plot Hospital, a hands-on, collaborative workshop designed to resuscitate and strengthen your narrative structure. Whether you’re a novelist, screenwriter, or storyteller of any kind, this workshop focuses on diagnosing plot weaknesses, stitching together disconnected scenes, and breathing new life into your…
4×4 Fiction Studio: A Deep Dive into Your Stories
4×4 Fiction Studio: A Deep Dive into Your Stories
This fiction workshop offers a unique opportunity for four dedicated writers to develop and refine their work over four intensive sessions. Each participant will submit two longer pieces, up to 30,000 words each, allowing for in-depth exploration of two short stories or substantial sections of a novel. Through personalized feedback and group discussions, participants will…
5 events,
Wednesday Wordsmiths!
Wednesday Wordsmiths!
Unlock your creative potential with the Wednesday Wordsmiths at The Muse Writers Center! Join us every Wednesday from 5-7pm for an inspiring and collaborative writing experience. Whether you're a seasoned wordsmith or just starting your literary journey, our group welcomes all. Bring your latest writings to share with fellow enthusiasts, or dive into our engaging…
Shut Up & Write Drop-in Session
Shut Up & Write Drop-in Session
Need a little mid-week motivation to pick up your pen? Join us every second Wednesday in person at the Muse for this drop-in writing session. No experience with writing or the Muse necessary! Open to any and all looking for a little slice of time dedicated to writing -- this is a lovely, low-pressure way…
Blueprint for a Novel
Blueprint for a Novel
This course will walk writers through an outlining and revising process that can be applied to their next novel whether you’re a plotter or a pantser. We’ll not only look at basic character development and create an outline of your plot but will also consider the audience and marketing of your book so that you…
The Yearlong Genre Fiction Studio with Wendy Higgins
The Yearlong Genre Fiction Studio with Wendy Higgins
Embark on an immersive 11-month journey to craft your genre fiction manuscript with the guidance of Wendy Higgins, a USA Today and New York Times bestselling author renowned for her young adult and adult genre romance, including fantasy, paranormal, sci-fi, mythology, and contemporary works. With years of experience navigating the publishing world, Wendy has successfully…
Introduction to Fiction Writing
Introduction to Fiction Writing
This free class is for members of the military community only: active duty, veterans, families, and caregivers. We all have stories to tell, whether we’ve never written anything before, or we’re dusting off the old writing muscles and getting back in the game. This class is a foundational course to get started or begin writing…
2 events,
2025 Spring Teen Fellowship Class
Find Your Muse: Screenwriting Exploration
Find Your Muse: Screenwriting Exploration
Lights, camera, action! This workshop invites you to explore the exciting world of screenwriting. Learn how to craft compelling dialogue, plot engaging scenes, and create characters that leap off the page. Through interactive exercises and collaborative discussion, you’ll experiment with writing for film and TV, whether you’re a first-timer or looking to reignite your passion…
1 event,
The Muse Neighborhood Jam
The Muse Neighborhood Jam
Join us on the 2nd Friday of each month for an evening where everyone is welcome to make music, sing, read, laugh, or just hang out and listen. This is not an open mic with a sign-up list. The Muse Jam is more fun! We'll alternate between individual-led and collaborative performance and pure unplugged jams.…
5 events,
Creative Writing Exploration for Middle School Youth
Creative Writing Exploration for Middle School Youth
Creative Writing for Middle School Youth (ages 11 to younger 14-year-olds) explores the fundamentals of creative writing and encourages each student to find their individual writing voice, no matter the genre (poetry, fiction, comics, songwriting, and screenwriting). Students will explore their creative expression through unique prompts, exercises, in-class writing, and opportunities to share and discuss…
Creative Writing for High School Teens (Hybrid)
Creative Writing for High School Teens (Hybrid)
Creative Writing for High School Teens encourages students to expand their creative writing by challenging them to elevate their creative voices with new writing techniques. During class, students learn literary craft techniques through lessons, exercises, and prompts. Popular topics include villain archetypes, magic system basics, how to write a fight scene, poetry, screenwriting, and more!…
Young Writers Workshop
Young Writers Workshop
The Young Writers Workshop explores a wide variety of genres and topics, including poetry, fiction, comics, and songwriting! During class, students engage their creative expression through various prompts, exercises, in-class writing sessions, and opportunities to share their work. All forms of creative writing are welcome. This course is open to all young writers in 3rd…
Exploring “Hermit Crab” Poems
Exploring “Hermit Crab” Poems
Hermit Crab poetry takes its name from the subgenre of creative non-fiction in which the writing takes refuge in a found form. From bingo boards to recipes to Punnett squares, any “shell” can become the creative home for a poem. What environments do different found forms offer to our writing? How do we, as writers,…
Prose and Cons
Prose and Cons
Are you looking for a place to build your writing craft muscles or assistance getting your latest project unstuck? Join us for Prose and Cons, where we’ll dive into the nitty gritty of discussing what makes a book tick, share our favorite tips and tricks, and do roundtable brainstorms to help get misbehaving manuscripts back…
2 events,
Syntax and Surprise: Ways Into (and Out) of the Poem
Syntax and Surprise: Ways Into (and Out) of the Poem
We've heard it said that writing must engage from the outset, and must keep us interested until the very end. How can we leverage the grammar and syntax of the poem alongside its other elements, to lead us (and our readers) to moments of greater pleasure, insight, and surprise; as well as toward more effective…
A Page in the Life Memoir Group
A Page in the Life Memoir Group
Memoirists unite once a month at The Muse to spend an hour working on their memoirs. Come to share your life stories or just sit and listen. All are welcome. This club meets on the third Sunday of each month from 4-6pm. Virtual & In-Person! To join virtually, register here! For questions about this event,…
4 events,
The Not Ready For Workshop Writers
The Not Ready For Workshop Writers
Writers will read about six minutes of something they have written, then receive gentle feedback from other members of the club. Ages 18 and up. All levels of writing experience. Writers will meet in the auditorium, at the rear of the the Muse.
The Fiction Studio
The Fiction Studio
The Fiction Studio continues with returning members and new members with professional fiction workshop experience. We will actively write and revise original short stories and chapters of novels as well as consider various aspects of the creative and professional life of the fiction writer. All members of the group will have the opportunity to submit…
Horror Writing Fundamentals
Horror Writing Fundamentals
Do you like to tell scary stories? In this class, we'll discuss the components of well-known horror stories and go over some of the techniques writers use to create strong, vivid, believable storylines, from the different ways a story can begin all the way to a satisfying conclusion. We’ll then write and share our own…
Self-Discovery through Memoir
Self-Discovery through Memoir
In this class, we will discover the lens(es) through we which we will look at our lives; we will discover ourselves as a character and learn how to write honestly and compassionately. We will draw correlations between repeated/patterned events. We will attempt to more fully understand the actions of others, which will lead us to…
3 events,
Finding Your Voice in Your Writing
Finding Your Voice in Your Writing
This free class is for members of the military community only: active duty, veterans, families, and caregivers. This exploratory workshop is designed for writers who want to develop their voice and learn more about craft. In each class, we’ll explore different aspects of voice by doing close readings to understand what works and complete exercises…
The Poetry Studio
The Poetry Studio
The studio continues: Members of the group will actively write and revise original poetry, with a special emphasis on the careful review of members' work, the examination of the literary and commercial marketplace, and the submission of work for publication. Work will be submitted in advance of each meeting. All poems submitted will be critiqued…
Screenwriting Certificate Fast Track
Screenwriting Certificate Fast Track
This 6-session intensive course is designed for seasoned Muse students who have completed numerous screenwriting classes and are ready to earn their Screenwriting Genre Certificate. Combining the foundational, intermediate, and advanced elements of Screenwriting Levels 1, 2, and 3, this program offers a comprehensive journey through the art and craft of screenwriting. Participants will revisit…
5 events,
Wednesday Wordsmiths!
Wednesday Wordsmiths!
Unlock your creative potential with the Wednesday Wordsmiths at The Muse Writers Center! Join us every Wednesday from 5-7pm for an inspiring and collaborative writing experience. Whether you're a seasoned wordsmith or just starting your literary journey, our group welcomes all. Bring your latest writings to share with fellow enthusiasts, or dive into our engaging…
Start Writing, Keep Writing… Write Now
Start Writing, Keep Writing… Write Now
Creative writing is fun! And finding your voice doesn’t have to be hard work. It’s just a matter of letting your words and ideas flow onto the page without tinkering and re-tinkering your way into a creative cul-de-sac. In this class, you’ll write--in the moment--to cues and prompts and then share your work in a…
Blueprint for a Novel
Blueprint for a Novel
This course will walk writers through an outlining and revising process that can be applied to their next novel whether you’re a plotter or a pantser. We’ll not only look at basic character development and create an outline of your plot but will also consider the audience and marketing of your book so that you…
Screenwriting 3: Refining & Pitching Your Script
Introduction to Fiction Writing
Introduction to Fiction Writing
This free class is for members of the military community only: active duty, veterans, families, and caregivers. We all have stories to tell, whether we’ve never written anything before, or we’re dusting off the old writing muscles and getting back in the game. This class is a foundational course to get started or begin writing…
5 events,
Fiction 3: Deeper into Voice & Revision (Mornings)
Writers Happy Hour
Writers Happy Hour
Join us for our Third Thursday Writers Happy Hour, an in-person, informal get-together where area writers and Muse teachers, students, and friends enjoy conversation, camaraderie, and drinks. Feel free to let us know you’re coming on Facebook. We look forward to seeing your faces! January 9, 2025 (Please Note this is the 2nd Thursday. January…
Fiction 3: Deeper into Voice & Revision (Evenings)
Find Your Muse: Creative Nonfiction Exploration
Find Your Muse: Creative Nonfiction Exploration
Discover the art of telling true stories creatively in this workshop designed to inspire and engage. Creative nonfiction blends the factual with the imaginative, allowing you to craft compelling narratives from real-life events. Using prompts, brainstorming exercises, and inspiring readings, you’ll explore personal essays, memoirs, and other nonfiction styles. Whether you’re writing about your life,…
Find Your Muse: Essay Exploration
Find Your Muse: Essay Exploration
Rediscover the essay as a versatile and creative medium for expression! In this workshop, we’ll explore various forms of essays—from narrative reflections to op-eds, lyrical musings, and beyond. Through inspiring prompts, examples from diverse writers, and guided discussions, you’ll experiment with blending personal stories and ideas in unique ways. Whether you’re revisiting this familiar form…
1 event,
Norfolk Word Art Show
Norfolk Word Art Show
Welcome to the Norfolk Word Art Show! This monthly open mic takes place at The Muse Writers Center every third Friday, with a different featured performer each month to kick things off. Sign up to share any original written words - material from poets, songwriters, comedians, and playwrites. If you can write it, we would…
4 events,
Creative Writing Exploration for Middle School Youth
Creative Writing Exploration for Middle School Youth
Creative Writing for Middle School Youth (ages 11 to younger 14-year-olds) explores the fundamentals of creative writing and encourages each student to find their individual writing voice, no matter the genre (poetry, fiction, comics, songwriting, and screenwriting). Students will explore their creative expression through unique prompts, exercises, in-class writing, and opportunities to share and discuss…
Creative Writing for High School Teens (Hybrid)
Creative Writing for High School Teens (Hybrid)
Creative Writing for High School Teens encourages students to expand their creative writing by challenging them to elevate their creative voices with new writing techniques. During class, students learn literary craft techniques through lessons, exercises, and prompts. Popular topics include villain archetypes, magic system basics, how to write a fight scene, poetry, screenwriting, and more!…
Young Writers Workshop
Young Writers Workshop
The Young Writers Workshop explores a wide variety of genres and topics, including poetry, fiction, comics, and songwriting! During class, students engage their creative expression through various prompts, exercises, in-class writing sessions, and opportunities to share their work. All forms of creative writing are welcome. This course is open to all young writers in 3rd…
The Power of the Personal Essay
The Power of the Personal Essay
The personal essay is a dynamic and versatile form of creative expression, blending storytelling, reflection, and argumentation. In this one-session class, we will explore how structure shapes meaning, how personal voice creates resonance, and how essays can engage with larger ideas while remaining deeply individual. Through discussion and analysis, participants will gain insights into crafting…
3 events,
THE SCRIBES: A CLUB FOR 18-25 YEAR OLD WRITERS
THE SCRIBES: A CLUB FOR 18-25 YEAR OLD WRITERS
Are you a young adult, college student or otherwise, looking to meet fellow writers? Then join us every2nd and 4th Sunday from 4-6PM to write, socialize, and eat snacks. Each meeting will have a critique section, as well as time to write and share. Open to anyone 18-25 interested in any form of creative writing.…
The Hero’s Beat: A Novel Formula
The Hero’s Beat: A Novel Formula
In this engaging two-and-a-half-hour workshop, we’ll explore how to blend the Hero’s Journey and Blake Snyder’s Beat Sheet to create a powerful, page-by-page outline for your novel. You’ll learn how to structure your story to maintain pacing, develop compelling characters, and craft a narrative that resonates. Perfect for writers looking to deepen their understanding of…
How to Self-Publish Your Book
How to Self-Publish Your Book
You’ve written a great book, but the query letter/literary agent/publisher game isn’t your cup of tea. Have you considered self-publishing? With print-on-demand, it's easier than ever to get your book into print—and e-books are even easier! From platform choice to formatting and cover design, this workshop will answer your questions and walk you through the…
5 events,
The Not Ready For Workshop Writers
The Not Ready For Workshop Writers
Writers will read about six minutes of something they have written, then receive gentle feedback from other members of the club. Ages 18 and up. All levels of writing experience. Writers will meet in the auditorium, at the rear of the the Muse.
Draft Collab: A Supportive Workshop for Writers With a Manuscript to Finish
Draft Collab: A Supportive Workshop for Writers With a Manuscript to Finish
If you've got a draft you're working on and are looking for a hivemind of fellow writers to help steer your story in the direction you want it to go, then this workshop is for you! We'll be taking an author-first approach, giving supportive feedback that is mindful of each writer's intentions for their own…
Nonfiction in a Flash
Nonfiction in a Flash
In this workshop, creative nonfiction and memoir writers will explore the genre of flash creative nonfiction (between 500 and 1,000 words). We will discuss and discover the many craft elements that make flash nonfiction an engaging, experimental and exciting genre! Every session we will generate and critique our small memoir and nonfiction stories and essays…
The Intermediate Poetry Workshop
The Intermediate Poetry Workshop
The Poetry Workshop continues with returning members and new members having poetry writing experience. Fresh, intriguing poetry prompts offer group members the opportunity to experiment with various styles, forms, subjects and themes, and in doing so, will clarify their own voices as they actively write and revise original poems. Each workshop will include consideration of…
Accountability Class
Accountability Class
In this multi-genre class, students will be given prompts and we will use class time to write together. Writers of all genres and all skill levels are encouraged to join in, and each student will be encouraged to create their own goal as to what they hope to get done on their current writing project.…
5 events,
Write Now! at Slover Library
Write Now! at Slover Library
Find The Muse and WRITE NOW! Do you wonder if you can write? Have you always wanted to write a story? Are you looking for a little inspiration? Do you need a little creative motivation? Well, we believe that everyone has a story and everyone can write it. You just need some inspiration and motivation!…
The Yearlong Fiction Studio with Michele Young-Stone
The Yearlong Fiction Studio with Michele Young-Stone
Complete or revise your book-length manuscript in this intensive, 11-month fiction-writing studio. Led by critically acclaimed novelist Michele Young-Stone (Above Us Only Sky, Lost in the Beehive, and The Handbook for Lightning Strike Survivors), this advanced-level course is tailored for serious writers ready to take their craft to the next level. Meeting twice monthly, participants…
Finding Your Voice in Your Writing
Finding Your Voice in Your Writing
This free class is for members of the military community only: active duty, veterans, families, and caregivers. This exploratory workshop is designed for writers who want to develop their voice and learn more about craft. In each class, we’ll explore different aspects of voice by doing close readings to understand what works and complete exercises…
Screenwriting 3: Refining & Pitching Your Script
Screenwriting 3: Refining & Pitching Your Script
The level three screenwriting class of three
4×4 Fiction Studio: A Deep Dive into Your Stories
4×4 Fiction Studio: A Deep Dive into Your Stories
This fiction workshop offers a unique opportunity for four dedicated writers to develop and refine their work over four intensive sessions. Each participant will submit two longer pieces, up to 30,000 words each, allowing for in-depth exploration of two short stories or substantial sections of a novel. Through personalized feedback and group discussions, participants will…
5 events,
Wednesday Wordsmiths!
Wednesday Wordsmiths!
Unlock your creative potential with the Wednesday Wordsmiths at The Muse Writers Center! Join us every Wednesday from 5-7pm for an inspiring and collaborative writing experience. Whether you're a seasoned wordsmith or just starting your literary journey, our group welcomes all. Bring your latest writings to share with fellow enthusiasts, or dive into our engaging…
Start Writing, Keep Writing… Write Now
Start Writing, Keep Writing… Write Now
Creative writing is fun! And finding your voice doesn’t have to be hard work. It’s just a matter of letting your words and ideas flow onto the page without tinkering and re-tinkering your way into a creative cul-de-sac. In this class, you’ll write--in the moment--to cues and prompts and then share your work in a…
Blueprint for a Novel
Blueprint for a Novel
This course will walk writers through an outlining and revising process that can be applied to their next novel whether you’re a plotter or a pantser. We’ll not only look at basic character development and create an outline of your plot but will also consider the audience and marketing of your book so that you…
The Yearlong Genre Fiction Studio with Wendy Higgins
The Yearlong Genre Fiction Studio with Wendy Higgins
Embark on an immersive 11-month journey to craft your genre fiction manuscript with the guidance of Wendy Higgins, a USA Today and New York Times bestselling author renowned for her young adult and adult genre romance, including fantasy, paranormal, sci-fi, mythology, and contemporary works. With years of experience navigating the publishing world, Wendy has successfully…
Introduction to Fiction Writing
Introduction to Fiction Writing
This free class is for members of the military community only: active duty, veterans, families, and caregivers. We all have stories to tell, whether we’ve never written anything before, or we’re dusting off the old writing muscles and getting back in the game. This class is a foundational course to get started or begin writing…
2 events,
2025 Spring Teen Fellowship Class
Find Your Muse: Screenwriting Exploration
Find Your Muse: Screenwriting Exploration
Lights, camera, action! This workshop invites you to explore the exciting world of screenwriting. Learn how to craft compelling dialogue, plot engaging scenes, and create characters that leap off the page. Through interactive exercises and collaborative discussion, you’ll experiment with writing for film and TV, whether you’re a first-timer or looking to reignite your passion…
0 events,
4 events,
Creative Writing Exploration for Middle School Youth
Creative Writing Exploration for Middle School Youth
Creative Writing for Middle School Youth (ages 11 to younger 14-year-olds) explores the fundamentals of creative writing and encourages each student to find their individual writing voice, no matter the genre (poetry, fiction, comics, songwriting, and screenwriting). Students will explore their creative expression through unique prompts, exercises, in-class writing, and opportunities to share and discuss…
Creative Writing for High School Teens (Hybrid)
Creative Writing for High School Teens (Hybrid)
Creative Writing for High School Teens encourages students to expand their creative writing by challenging them to elevate their creative voices with new writing techniques. During class, students learn literary craft techniques through lessons, exercises, and prompts. Popular topics include villain archetypes, magic system basics, how to write a fight scene, poetry, screenwriting, and more!…
Young Writers Workshop
Young Writers Workshop
The Young Writers Workshop explores a wide variety of genres and topics, including poetry, fiction, comics, and songwriting! During class, students engage their creative expression through various prompts, exercises, in-class writing sessions, and opportunities to share their work. All forms of creative writing are welcome. This course is open to all young writers in 3rd…
Moments of Change: Capturing Turning Points in Memoir
Moments of Change: Capturing Turning Points in Memoir
According to Joan Didion, “We tell ourselves stories in order to live.” Memoir distills lived experience into meaning, but how do we recognize the moments that matter? In this workshop, we will focus on the turning point--those pivotal moments when our perspective, identity, or world shifts in an irrevocable way. Turning points are the catalysts…
1 event,
Syntax and Surprise: Ways Into (and Out) of the Poem
Syntax and Surprise: Ways Into (and Out) of the Poem
We've heard it said that writing must engage from the outset, and must keep us interested until the very end. How can we leverage the grammar and syntax of the poem alongside its other elements, to lead us (and our readers) to moments of greater pleasure, insight, and surprise; as well as toward more effective…
3 events,
The Not Ready For Workshop Writers
The Not Ready For Workshop Writers
Writers will read about six minutes of something they have written, then receive gentle feedback from other members of the club. Ages 18 and up. All levels of writing experience. Writers will meet in the auditorium, at the rear of the the Muse.
The Fiction Studio
The Fiction Studio
The Fiction Studio continues with returning members and new members with professional fiction workshop experience. We will actively write and revise original short stories and chapters of novels as well as consider various aspects of the creative and professional life of the fiction writer. All members of the group will have the opportunity to submit…
Horror Writing Fundamentals
Horror Writing Fundamentals
Do you like to tell scary stories? In this class, we'll discuss the components of well-known horror stories and go over some of the techniques writers use to create strong, vivid, believable storylines, from the different ways a story can begin all the way to a satisfying conclusion. We’ll then write and share our own…
6 events,
Wednesday Wordsmiths!
Wednesday Wordsmiths!
Unlock your creative potential with the Wednesday Wordsmiths at The Muse Writers Center! Join us every Wednesday from 5-7pm for an inspiring and collaborative writing experience. Whether you're a seasoned wordsmith or just starting your literary journey, our group welcomes all. Bring your latest writings to share with fellow enthusiasts, or dive into our engaging…
2025 TCC Literary Festival: Tim Seibles & Chris Brydge
2025 TCC Literary Festival: Tim Seibles & Chris Brydge
Join Tidewater Community College and The Muse Writers Center for an evening of poetry and music with former Poet Laureate, Tim Seibles, and renowned upright bassist, Chris Brydge. Refreshments will be served, and the event is free and open to the public. Tim Seibles and Chris Brydge combine poetry and the music of upright bass…
Start Writing, Keep Writing… Write Now
Start Writing, Keep Writing… Write Now
Creative writing is fun! And finding your voice doesn’t have to be hard work. It’s just a matter of letting your words and ideas flow onto the page without tinkering and re-tinkering your way into a creative cul-de-sac. In this class, you’ll write--in the moment--to cues and prompts and then share your work in a…
Blueprint for a Novel
Blueprint for a Novel
This course will walk writers through an outlining and revising process that can be applied to their next novel whether you’re a plotter or a pantser. We’ll not only look at basic character development and create an outline of your plot but will also consider the audience and marketing of your book so that you…
Screenwriting 3: Refining & Pitching Your Script
Introduction to Fiction Writing
Introduction to Fiction Writing
This free class is for members of the military community only: active duty, veterans, families, and caregivers. We all have stories to tell, whether we’ve never written anything before, or we’re dusting off the old writing muscles and getting back in the game. This class is a foundational course to get started or begin writing…
2 events,
Writers Coffee Break
Writers Coffee Break
Join us for our monthly 1st Friday Writers Coffee Breaks at Cafe Stella in Ghent! At these informal get-togethers, area writers and Muse teachers, students, and friends enjoy conversation and camaraderie over a (perhaps much needed) coffee break. Each month will be hosted by different Muse teachers, who will be available to answer questions from…
Mindful Journaling through Grief
Mindful Journaling through Grief
Grief is hard. Working through grief, and learning to heal can be daunting. However, healing comes from within. Grief and healing have no time limits. Whether you are experiencing a new loss, or trying to make sense of your pain years later, come and learn new ways and tools to heal through loss. Through meditative…
11 events,
Muse Teacher Poetry Showcase
Muse Teacher Poetry Showcase
Celebrate National Poetry Month with an evening of poetry from The Muse’s teaching artists. Our Spring poetry instructors will read from their original work, offering a glimpse into their craft and the work they bring to their workshops. Featuring:Bridget DolanGabriela IgloriaJorge MendezAlison PalmerTom Yuill All are welcome.
Queer Writers Meet-up @ Eleanor’s NFK
Queer Writers Meet-up @ Eleanor’s NFK
Calling all queer writers! Join us every first Saturday in person at Eleanor's Norfolk from 10-11. This is a space to meet up with other local creatives, meet new friends, and talk all things writing. Looking to get some words on the page? Come to our Rainbow Write-in at the Muse every third Tuesday. Co-hosted…
Creative Writing Exploration for Middle School Youth
Creative Writing Exploration for Middle School Youth
Creative Writing for Middle School Youth (ages 11 to younger 14-year-olds) explores the fundamentals of creative writing and encourages each student to find their individual writing voice, no matter the genre (poetry, fiction, comics, songwriting, and screenwriting). Students will explore their creative expression through unique prompts, exercises, in-class writing, and opportunities to share and discuss…
Creative Writing for High School Teens (Hybrid)
Creative Writing for High School Teens (Hybrid)
Creative Writing for High School Teens encourages students to expand their creative writing by challenging them to elevate their creative voices with new writing techniques. During class, students learn literary craft techniques through lessons, exercises, and prompts. Popular topics include villain archetypes, magic system basics, how to write a fight scene, poetry, screenwriting, and more!…
Crafting Plot and Story: Can Technology Help?
Crafting Plot and Story: Can Technology Help?
Are you a follow-the-flow writer or a plan-it-all-out writer? Or something in between? Even those who do not plot initially revise and craft their work to hook the reader. Using a standard mystery plot and Scrivener, a software writing technology, explore the difference between plot and story. Can technology help? In this class, we examine…
Deconstructing Fantasy Tropes: A Four-Session Workshop
Deconstructing Fantasy Tropes: A Four-Session Workshop
In this multi-session workshop, we will take a deep dive into the tropes that define fantasy storytelling, examining their origins, evolution, and potential for reinvention. Through discussion, analysis, and creative exercises, we’ll unravel classic elements such as dragons, wizards, and epic quests, challenging conventional narratives to uncover fresh perspectives and untold stories. Participants will engage…
Songwriting 101
Songwriting 101
Songwriting 101 will equip you with the tools to unlock your creativity and approach songwriting in new and exciting ways. Through this class, you'll discover effective methods to express yourself through music and build confidence in your songwriting abilities.Each session combines brief, engaging explanations of songwriting concepts with hands-on activities designed to spark your creativity.…
Design Your Own Plague
Design Your Own Plague
Are you a horror writer struggling to create a germ to turn Earth’s population into zombies? Are you a science fiction writer who wants to design a Martian virus but you don’t know where to start? Are you writing historical fiction but you’re unsure what infectious diseases occurred during the time period you’re writing? Then…
Overcoming Writing Anxiety
Overcoming Writing Anxiety
What happens when you see that blank screen? Does your heart start skipping beats? Do you breathe heavily with fear? You're not alone! Writing anxiety plagues a lot of writers. In this workshop, you'll learn about the differences between writing anxiety and writer's block, the causes of writing anxiety, and ways to counter it when…
Fantastical Worlds: A Writing Group for Speculative Fiction
Fantastical Worlds: A Writing Group for Speculative Fiction
Speculative fiction is an umbrella genre of fiction that encompasses all the subgenres that depart from realism, or strictly imitating everyday reality, instead presenting fantastical, supernatural, futuristic, or other imaginative realms. Does this describe your writing? If so, come join us for our monthly speculative fiction writers gathering! A unique blend of craft talk, brain…
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- There are no events on this day.