There are few spots left! in the The Heart of Memoir Writing Workshop

May 27 – June 2, 2012

Held in the Abruzzo Region of Italy, in the medieval hilltop burgh of Santo Stefano di Sessanio, a UNESCO World Heritage site, awarded for Conservation of Cultural Landscapes.

Experience travel in the grand tradition of times past when great American writers sought inspiration in unspoiled European cities and villages.

Allow yourself time and seclusion to create literature from your life experience as you craft creative nonfiction essays— memoir, food and travel writing.

Travel
Learn the art of composing the experience of a place, of finding and revealing the heart of an unfamiliar locale, of clarifying a critical essence that can be known only through watchful observation and reflection. Carefully note architectural detail, patterns in old stone steps, symbolism on church walls, vistas of green and gold. Weave such imagery with historical research to add texture to travel essays.

Food

Research the Italian food typical of Abruzzo, perhaps to find the connection between the foods served in Santo Stefano and local farming traditions. Uncover ancient practices that shape a dish and understand the love implicit in each “Mangia, Mangia.” Focus on one ingredient and trace its path from farm to table or write about the leisure of the evening meal and its relationship to the meandering style of Italian conversation.

Accommodations
Enjoy six nights in a private room in Sextantio Albergo Diffuso, Santo Stefano’s award-winning hotel offering
Comfortable rooms of medieval simplicity, their restoration guided by a deep-felt appreciation for local history
Historically preserved architecture
Blankets made from the wool of local sheep, hand-woven linens
Warmth from wood burning fireplaces, heated floors and Philippe Starck bathrooms

Click here for Workshop Rates and Registration info