Join memoirist Molly Wizenberg as she returns to Atelier Clos Mirabel for a writing-based creative retreat, in the beautiful French Pyrenees.
About this course:
In this class for creative nonfiction writers of all experience levels, we will use life’s everyday experiences to reveal and write the stories that matter most.
From an old sweater hidden at the back of the closet to the final cigarette shared with an ex, the moments that carry meaning in life can, at first glance, seem too small or too ordinary to be significant. But when we bring to these instances a writer’s tools, we can surprise even ourselves with what we find.
In this workshop, Molly Wizenberg will share writing exercises to help you unlock stories contained within the objects, places, and habits of your own life. Alongside these prompts, we’ll also discuss elements of the craft of personal narrative and read short works from a variety of writers: Sharon Olds, Melissa Febos, Sandra Cisneros, Richard Blanco, and more. Participants will share some of the work they produce for constructive feedback from the instructor and the group. You’ll leave with a handful of fresh drafts and ideas to carry you forward.
Programme Outline – Creative Writing Retreat with Molly Wizenberg
Please note that the schedule that follows is tentative; the curriculum for this class is designed to be flexible and responsive to the needs and wishes of the participants.
Saturday
4.00 – Check-in time from 4pm onwards
Guests arrive, settle in and explore Atelier Clos Mirabel.
6.00 – Welcome drinks and dinner
Sunday
8.30 – 9.30 Buffet breakfast of local and regional produce
10.00 – 1.00 An introduction to the course
1.00 – 2.00 Lunch at Atelier Clos Mirabel
2.00 – 5.00 Independent work
5.00 – 7.00 Evening class, which will include an aperitif around 6pm
7.00 – 4 course dinner in the Manor House
Monday
8.30 – 9.30 Buffet breakfast of local and regional produce
10.00 – 1.00 Morning class
1.00 – 2.00 Lunch at Atelier Clos Mirabel
2.00 – 5.00 Independent work
5.00 – 7.00 Evening class, which will include an aperitif around 6pm
7.00 – 4 course dinner in the Manor House
Tuesday
8.30 – 9.15 Buffet breakfast of local and regional produce
9.30 – Depart for a day in the mountains and mountain villages: 1.5 hour hike with spectacular views and historic stone circles (cromlechs), lunch in a local village restaurant and writing exercises en plein air. Transport provided.
6.00 – Aperitifs before 4 course dinner in the Manor House
Please note this programme may be subject to change depending on the weather.
Please ensure you bring sensible walking shoes, layers, waterproof jacket, water bottle, sunscreen and a hat.
Wednesday – Free day (Lunch is not included)
8.30 – 9.30 Buffet breakfast of local and regional produce
Free time to explore Pau or beyond. The Clos Mirabel team is available to provide suggestions and organize transport.
6.00 – Aperitifs before 4 course dinner in the Manor House
Thursday
8.30 – 9.30 Buffet breakfast of local and regional produce
10.00 – 1.00 Morning class
1.00 – 2.00 Lunch at Atelier Clos Mirabel
2.00 – 5.00 Independent work
5.00 – 7.00 Evening class, which will include an aperitif around 6pm
7.00 – 4 course dinner in the Manor House
Friday
8.30 – 9.30 Buffet breakfast of local and regional produce
10.00 – 1.00 Morning class
1.00 – 2.00 Lunch at Atelier Clos Mirabel
2.00 – 5.00 Independent work
5.00 – 7.00 Evening class, which will include an aperitif around 6pm
7.00 – 4 course dinner in the Manor House
Saturday
8.30 – 9.30 Buffet Breakfast
11.00 – Check-out
Non-Writing Guests: we are more than happy to welcome non-writing guests, accompanying partners, family or friends. There are plenty of activities to experience around Clos Mirabel, that will make your holiday unforgettable Click here for more information.
The Creative Studio offers a spacious open plan layout of 75 m2. It is available at all times during your stay. Click here for more information.
