“The creation of something new is not accomplished by the intellect but by play.”—Carl Jung

For a creative twist, some writers impose unique conditions on their work as they craft a piece. Dr. Seuss wrote Green Eggs and Ham on a bet—that he couldn’t write an entire book using only 50 words. Or imagine trying this: Write about a trek through the desert without using the words ‘sand,’ ‘cactus,’ ‘water,’ ‘sun,’ and ‘heat.’ Challenging ourselves in this fun way can have an oddly liberating effect, leading to rich, resonant writing.

In this generative three-week workshop, we’ll look at examples by writers who use these techniques, then engage with inventive writing exercises, freeing our own imaginations. During each session, we’ll explore how constraints may inspire both poetry and prose. We’ll be surprised by the ideas that spring forth—and thrilled with the original results!

The class will include a taste of SoulCollage®, an expressive arts method through which we’ll use creative constraints to make collages, then write in dynamic with the visual material using specified prompts. Artistic ability is not required, just an openness to trying something new.

Participants will have the opportunity to share their work with the group—if they choose—and receive positive, uplifting AWA-style feedback.

Writers will leave with fresh, generative ways to approach their current and future projects, as well as several short pieces of writing that can be further refined or transformed into the beginnings of a larger work.

Three Thursdays: November 30, December 7, December 14

3:30pm – 6pm Eastern Time

Via Zoom

Find new ways to unleash your creativity! For more info and to register, click here! 

Kimberly Lee left the practice of law some years ago to focus on motherhood, community work, and creative pursuits. A graduate of Stanford University and UC Davis School of Law, she is an Amherst Writers & Artists facilitator and affiliate and serves on its board of directors. She is trained and certified by The Center for Journal Therapy, The Center for Intentional Creativity, and SoulCollage®. A former editor and regular contributor at Literary Mama, Kimberly has also served on the staffs of Carve and F(r)iction magazines. Her stories and essays have appeared in publications and anthologies including Minerva Rising, LA Parent, Toyon, The Ekphrastic Review, Read650, and elsewhere. She lives in Southern California with her husband; their three wonderful children attend colleges nearby.