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Since its founding in 2009, John Cabot University's Institute for Creative Writing and Literary Translation has become a thriving community of and for writers in Rome. With workshops in the major genres (fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction) and literary translation, the Institute is the place for creative writing students to spend serious time on their writing as they get to know the Eternal City.

In Summer 2024, the Institute will welcome Rachel Cantor , the author of the novels Half-Life of a Stolen Sister (Soho Press 2023), Good on Paper (Melville House 2016), and A Highly Unlikely Scenario (Melville House 2014). 

Visit the Admissions page and learn how to apply.

For further information about the Institute for Creative Writing and Literary Translation, please contact the Director, Professor Shannon Russell .

Summer Session I 2024 Courses

Upcoming Events

• Undergraduate
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Join us on this summer retreat in the Tuscan countryside for a week of deep creative writing. Bring your writing project, slow down and be guided and supported in your process. 

Tuscany,  7-14th july, 2024.

We understand writers, and the quiet magic that is sometimes needed to allow words to flow. After decades of supporting writers, we know that to write a story buried in your heart, you often need to remove yourself from ordinary life. All types of writers are welcome into these immersions into the world of story and creativity. ​ ​Join us in Tuscany again in 2024 to write. This ancient land with its characteristic landscapes and incredible light will envelope you, as it has countless creatives before you, including some of the greatest writers the world has ever known. In fact, the energy – and spectacular land – of these master writers continues to inspire countless authors today. So take a deep breath and soak up your stunning surroundings: the rolling hills of Tuscany, the sweeping vineyard outside your window. Warm sun on your shoulders, filtered through the branches of an ancient oak tree. A pencil and paper in hand and your eyes dancing across the scene before you: a sweeping vineyard, silvery olive groves and the rolling hills of Tuscany reaching out to infinity – dotted with villages, towers and castles. ​Here you are in Italy, immersing yourself in your words, a chance to get quiet and to be mentored by literary agent and writing coach Sarah Bullen along with New York Times ghostwriter Lisa Pulitzer.   This is an unforgettable writing journey to get your book or writing project, on track. You’ll travel the journey of memory, dive deep into the craft of writing, have heaps of fun, enjoy unforgettable experiences in Italy and join an eclectic and creative community of fellow writers.

WHO SHOULD JOIN?

Both advanced and novice writers are welcome. This is a structured writing workshop for writers of all levels who want to tell their story or write their book. We also welcome scriptwriters, academic writers and poets.  It is right for you, if you need an adventure, plus the gift of time and space in a Tuscany summer setting. You don’t need to be a writer or to have a grand project in progress. You may be halfway through a novel, or on your second one.  You can be working on a memoir, poetry, workbook, online course, photography-based book, life story or just a creative writing project. This is for writers who just need dedicated time away from your ordinary life to totally immerse in a creative environment to write, write and write. The time is both a deep-dive into your own book, and a task-based programme to get your word count up, or finish your book ready for submission.  ​ The course is a daily combination of technical writing techniques, working through your blocks, finding ways to access your memories and plan your story.  ​

breakfast and quiet writing time. Then it’s off to the nearby village for a fascinating walking tour of this historic, medieval town. Afterwards you’ll enjoy time on your own to explore and shop.  This afternoon you’ll gather for focused writing time. This evening you’ll enjoy a light aperi-cena (aperitivo and dinner together).

Think… * Medieval villages nearby * morning cappuccino in the warm air with fresh-baked torta * strolls through the vineyard * winding alleyways in medieval villag es * vines laden with ripe, red grapes * geraniums spilling from window boxes * dinners under the Tuscan stars

Accommodation -  A magnificent farmhouse in Tuscany 

We are so thrilled in 2024 to be staying in the Tuscan Maremma region at a beautifully restored farmhouse and country hotel on a 102-hectare organic estate and spa.  All the rooms of the farmhouse are furnished in the classic Tuscan style and are dedicated to those who want to enjoy a genuine stay in the Maremma countryside.  The rooms are arranged on the farm, around the restaurant area, facing the old farmyard, on the ground floor or first floor of the manor house.  On the same property nestles a boutique country hotel. We have access to all the facilities which include a swimming pool as well as a wellness centre with an an indoor heated pool with hydromassage features, a a sauna, and a Turkish bath.  The sprawling wine estate extends over green Tuscan valleys with olive groves and vineyards. We chose this for our 2025 trip to bring the best of Tuscany - good shopping, a rural location but a luxury experience.  ​DATES & PRICES:  8 Days/7 Nights ​​Beautiful Traditional Farmhouse en-suite is €4,250   (single occupancy) * Deposit required €750 plus payment plan Arrival and departure airport: Rome Airport FCO or Pisa International Airport (also named Galileo Galilei Airport) Tuscany Writing Retreat Includes:

7 nights accommodation in this special farmhouse and boutique hotel in Tuscany, Italy

Private group transfer to/from either Rome FCO Airport or Pisa

Private transport service to/from all excursions included in the itinerary

All meals are included - expect local Tuscan featuring traditional dishes, along with locally grown produce, wine and olive oil

Daily grou p and individual writing lessons 

Not included:   Airfare,  alcoholic drinks, buses, trains or boat transportation outside of that which is specifically listed in the trip package, gratuities for villa staff and drivers

Some things we will cover:

* The basics of planning a compelling story * The key elements of structure

* The business side of books and screenplays

* Short Form Writing Masterclass – LinkedIn, Twitter, Substack and magazine * Researching and the art of the interview

* Creating realistic characters

* Beginnings, starts and hooks

* Self editing and editing styles * Handling point of view * Working with dialogue * Working through personal blocks * Adding depth and layers, tone and voice  * Sourcing tips and techniques * Understanding what an author brand is and how to build one

* How to launch your brand and publicity ideas

We are there to write, and also to have a lot of laughs and fun. We love travel and writing. Put the two together? Magic

SARAH BULLEN 

Literary Agent and Writing Coach

Sarah Bullen is a writing coach, and literary agent with a deep passion for helping writers bring their stories to life. Founder of The Writing Room and Kent Literary, she has had over 150 books published by writers she has mentored. 

With over 17 years of experience in the publishing industry, Sarah has worked closely with authors across various genres, guiding them through the writing process and helping them achieve their publishing goals.

Her expertise lies in both the creative and business aspects of writing, making her an invaluable mentor for aspiring and established writers alike.

LISA PULITZER

Writing coach 

NY Times Bestselling Author.

Lisa Pulitzer is author/coauthor of more than fifty nonfiction titles, including New York Times bestsellers Stolen Innocence, Beyond Belief, Imperfect Justice, and Mob Daughter. Lisa also serves as a ghostwriter to high profile personalities, among them celebrities, prosecutors and judges. For the past ten years, she has enjoyed teaching the craft of writing to others. She is a longtime writing instructor at Long Island University’s Hutton House Lecture Series, 

Over the years, she has helped dozens of writers bring their books to publication.

LIZ CASANOVA

Organiser and Partner

Elizabeth Casanova brings a wealth of experience in event coordination, creative retreats, and international travel to our team. Her background of 15 years running a successful film production company and her love for creativity, adventure, and cultural exploration have led her to curate unforgettable retreat experiences

Liz is responsible for the logistical planning, coordination, and overall experience of our retreats. Her attention to detail, warm personality, and dedication to creating a welcoming environment ensure that participants feel supported and inspired throughout their journey.

She is passionate about living with joy and natural health. 

Our Itinerary

Day 1  Arrival and Welcome Dinner  From Rome or Pisa Airport you’ll journey to your accommodation in the heart of Tuscany. After a warm welcome and check in, we’ll gather together and get acquainted, before a retreat opening and writing introduction. Then it’s time for a traditional aperitivo, followed by a welcome dinner where we set our writing intentions for our time together.  Day 2 Kick off your writing. Every morning we enjoy quiet writing time, then we gather together for a structured writing class. Today we will split you into novels and non-fiction writers as we cover the basics of plot and narrative structure for each genre. After lunch under the vines, you’ll enjoy quiet and focused writing time, a perhaps a siesta. Then, later in the afternoon, you’ll gather with your fellow writers for a connect session, along with focused writing and feedback. Afterwards you might enjoy a walk to explore the land and take in the spectacular views. This evening you’ll enjoy aperitivo and dinner served up.  Day 3 Unleash your creativity  This morning we once again enjoy breakfast and quiet writing time before gathering together for another content-packed creative writing class.. Today you’ll look at characters, along with how to structure your plot and setting. You’ll also have the opportunity for a one-on-one session for specific advice on your writing. This afternoon we have a fun exploration of opening your creativity and senses. This evening we’ll enjoy aperitivo, storytelling under the stars and dinner. Day 4 Explore the past This morning we once again enjoy breakfast and quiet writing time. Then it’s off to the nearby village for a fascinating walking tour of this historic, medieval town. Afterwards you’ll enjoy time on your own to explore and shop.  This afternoon you’ll gather for focused writing time. This evening you’ll enjoy a light aperi-cena (aperitivo and dinner together). Day 5   Spa Day and Rest As usual, our morning begins with gentle movement or quiet writing time, followed by a focused writing session. This afternoon is our spa day enjoy soaking in the hot, mineral pools, perhaps a Turkish bath and massage at the hotel spa.  After lunch, you’ll have time to rest and relax for before our evening a group session. This evening we gather together to share our day’s writing over a friendly aperitivo – with some poetry and feedback – followed by dinner.  Day 6 Write, Write, Write. This morning, after breakfast and your quiet writing time, you’ll be joining Sarah for our final writing session where we do more advanced plotting, different scenes all books need and the cast of your book. Today is a writing push. After lunch  – your writing continues, as you finalize your writing project! This evening we share our writing journey and our goals going forward. We talk about how to take the next steps, including the publishing journey ahead. Then it’s time for a special celebratory dinner where you’ll share writing, poetry and life together. Day 7 Write, Write, Write ​ Day 8 Closing and farewell Last Breakfast then departures for Rome or Pisa.

This ancient land with its characteristic landscapes and incredible light will envelope you, as it has countless creatives before you. In fact, the energy – and spectacular land – of these master writers continues to inspire countless authors today. So take a deep breath and soak up your stunning surroundings: the rolling hills of Tuscany.

Sarah Bullen

WHAT OUR WRITERS SAY

Ayla tk, israel.

This retreat topped all of my expectations. It gracefully operates between professionalism, deep connection with the land and creativity, and a load of fun. I felt I was given practical tools to write while also given a beautiful space to meet my muse. It was a magical seven days in Tuscany I will carry with me forever. I will tell you what my husband said when I was contemplating the trip. “Just go!” You won’t regret it

Michelle Ruiz, USA

I did the Italy retreat and it changed my life. There were so many incredible moments that inspired my writing and enlightened my soul. I HIGHLY recommend this retreat. Kate and Sarah are amazing and thoughtful in everything they do. I plan to go to another one of their retreats soon!

The Writers Studio

The Original School of Creative Writing and Thinking, est. 1987

The Writers Studio Italia

The Writers Studio Italia nasce dall’incontro tra Philip Schultz, fondatore della prestigiosa scuola di scrittura, e Stas’ Gawronski, giornalista culturale e insegnante di scrittura creativa in Italia, in occasione di un’intervista al premio Pulitzer sul suo libro “La Mia Dislessia” al Festivaletteratura di Mantova 2016. La forte sintonia sulle ragioni profonde della letteratura e dell’educazione all’arte del narrare si sono tradotte in due anni appassionanti di frequentazione del Writers Studio a New York da parte di Stas’ e nell’idea di aprire la filiale della scuola a Roma con il comune amico, poeta e saggista, Nicola Bultrini, anche lui allievo del The Writers Studio.

I corsi del The Writers Studio Italia, in sede e on-line, sono tenuti secondo la metodologia della scuola americana da insegnanti italiani che si sono rigorosamente formati presso la scuola a New York.

Per maggiori informazioni, per cortesia, scrivete a [email protected] , visitateci sulla pagina Facebook del The Writers Studio Italia [coming soon]. Clicca qui per iscrivervi alla newsletter del Writers Studio Italia per le novità sui corsi, i readings, i workshop gratuiti e altre attività.

The Writers Studio New York

The Writers Studio, fondato nel 1987 a New York dal poeta vincitore del premio Pulitzer Philip Schultz, offre corsi e seminari, sia in sede sia on-line, pensati per aiutare scrittori e poeti a scoprire e coltivare la propria voce.

Accogliamo allievi di ogni età, grado di studio ed esperienza di scrittura che abbiano raggiunto i 18 anni, da quelli che soltanto sognano di scrivere poesie e storie, a quelli che si sono già confrontati con l’arte del narrare e sono affamati di istruzioni serie e continuative.

Gli allievi si accostano con il desiderio di scrivere e la volontà di apprendere, noi forniamo la struttura didattica, il know-how tecnico, il feedback professionale e la comunità di insegnanti e scrittori che consente agli allievi di far crescere e valorizzare il proprio talento, sviluppare un personale progetto di scrittura e raggiungere a poco a poco il pieno potenziale espressivo.

Il metodo di insegnamento del The Writers Studio si fonda sull’esperienza, l’esercizio e l’interiorizzazione delle voci narranti di scrittori che hanno già raggiunto una maturità espressiva e hanno pubblicato le loro opere con successo. Agli allievi viene proposto di mettersi concretamente in gioco in un processo di apprendimento che li porta a scoprire il proprio materiale narrativo, sviluppare la propria voce e il proprio unico stile.

Accadono molte cose interessanti quando gli allievi si confrontano con la varietà di approcci narrativi tratti dall’opera di autori affermati. L’intelligenza della narrazione si sviluppa, l’immaginazione si amplia, il senso di ciò che è possibile si espande. In poco tempo, il materiale narrativo che emerge è molto più vasto di quanto si possa immaginare.

Crediamo che una certa sensibilità narrativa sia il fondamento per la scrittura di una storia quanto per la scrittura di una poesia, ma le lezioni approfondiscono altri elementi espressivi essenziali come il “mood” e lo stile della voce narrante, il dialogo e le diverse tecniche poetiche. Paradossalmente, gli allievi sviluppano la loro voce unica e il loro stile originale immergendosi nelle narrazioni o nelle opere poetiche di autori affermati. Questo metodo è molto familiare agli allievi di musica e arti visuali, che sviluppano la loro abilità studiando le opere dei loro maestri. Di solito per gli allievi questo approccio è una rivelazione.

I corsi sono organizzati in quattro livelli distinti. Ogni livello si fonda su esercizi settimanali accuratamente pensati dagli insegnanti, in modo da costituire una sfida sempre più significativa e feconda. Tutti gli studenti nuovi al metodo iniziano il loro percorso formativo con il Workshop.

Gli insegnanti

Nel suo complesso è una comunità affiatata di scrittori e insegnanti; i corsi in sede si svolgono in ambienti informali e le classi presto diventano piccole comunità in cui gli allievi si sostengono e aiutano a vicenda in un clima di fiducia e solidarietà.

Scegliamo attentamente i nostri insegnanti e li formiamo con cura, in modo che gli allievi che procedono nei diversi livelli possano trovare coerenza e continuità di formazione. Gli insegnanti creano esercizi appropriati per ogni livello e offrono il loro punto di vista critico costruttivo e conciso, formando gli allievi a fare lo stesso l’uno con l’altro.

Gli allievi condividono il proprio lavoro e ricevono un feedback dai loro compagni all’interno di un quadro concettuale e di un vocabolario condiviso. Il graduale sviluppo di questa facoltà critica li rende molto più consapevoli e recettivi anche quando si tratta di valutare il proprio lavoro.

The Writers Studio Italia offers ongoing creative writing workshops entirely in Italian in Rome and Online using the tried and true method developed by Pulitzer Prize winning poet Philip Schultz since he founded the school in 1987. The idea for The Writers Studio Italia originated in 2016 at the Festivaletteratura in Mantua, when Stas’ Gawronski, an Italian cultural journalist and creative writing teacher, interviewed Pulitzer Prize winner and founder of The Writers Studio, Philip Schultz. Their shared vision about the experience of literature and teaching creative writing inspired Stas’ to move to New York City to attend The Writers Studio. After two exciting years of learning the method, Philip and Stas’ agreed that writers in Italy would greatly benefit from the Writers Studio approach. Our common friend, poet Nicola Bultrini, also a student of The Writers Studio, came on board to help establish The Writers Studio Italia. For more information, email [email protected] , subscribe to our newsletter and follow our Facebook page .

Available Italia Workshops

The writers studio, online and local communities.

New to The Writers Studio? Start here .

San Francisco

Hudson river towns, craft class, tutorial program, all memoir courses.

Write Toscana

Tuscany, Italy - Province Of Lucca

Welcome to write toscana.

Write Toscana offers a tailor-made alternative to other high-pressure writing courses. Each of our courses admits only four fellow writers, and participants are carefully selected with the idea of creating a group that will form a writing community that lasts well beyond the end of your time in Italy. Over the course of seven days, you will have the encouragement to work on what you wish to and also to take risks and experiment – all while immersed in an inspirational setting.

At the heart of the retreat is the benefit of time and space to centre your writing practice: prompts to enliven your work, discussions and tips on planning and structuring, quiet moments of drafting and refining your work.

Find Out More About Our Retreat →

Your Voice, Your Style, Your Vision

Creative Writing Retreat in Italy

 17 - 24 may 2025, click here > >.

AN ALL INCLUSIVE PRICE!          

* 6 morning workshops & critique sessions

* 1:1 with a tutor to discuss any aspect of your manuscript 

* Q&A sessions with celebrity/published authors  - a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get tips and advice to help  you on your writing journey

* Breakfast/Lunch & dinner

Features >           

A luxury Italian villa with pool near to the coast with stunning views of the  Gran Sasso Mountains and  the medieval hilltop town of Citta S'Angelo.  

 Interactive workshops on creative writing, book marketing, book launches and cover design  

A safe, creative and nurturing environment for you!

Come with a completed manuscript or just and idea.. all are welcome  

Creative Writing Course

In this creative writing course, with the help of writers, journalists an expert copywriters, you’ll learn to develop your own stylistic and narrative identity, practicing writing in all its diverse aspects. You’ll learn the techniques and methodologies to carry out the narrator’s complex profession – whether it be journalism, fiction, copywriting or non-fiction.

Creativity and writing skills can be learned, stimulated and improved: writing and reading as much as possible are the basis for developing one’s skills to the maximum, but there are techniques and methods, which, with the help of writing professionals, can evolve quickly and successfully.

Discover and develop your poetic side, and narrative skills, learning how to use and modulate writing in all its many areas – from fiction to journalism, and from copywriting to informational.

– Methodologies and practices

– Bibliography for beginners

– Reading and Research methods

– Find and develop an idea

– Creative thinking

– Narrative styles and structure

– Journalism

– Fiction

– Non-fiction

– Editing

– Copywriting and advertising

Duration of the course

Agree to Privacy Policy

Basic and Advanced

4 hours per day, from Monday to Friday for 20 h /week

from 2 to 6 participants

25/03/2024 – 19/04/2024

24/03/2025 – 18/04/2025

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2024 Announcement

We are proud to announce the launch of our 2024 Creative Writing Holiday Programme. Please visit our 2024 Creative Writing Programme page for more details.

Take advantage of our Early Bird offer: if you book before 31 December 2022, there is a £75 (English pounds) discount on every one of our 2023 writing courses.

Writing Your Life Stories

Over the years we have run several types of writing courses from Writing Romantic Fiction to Comedy and Drama Scriptwriting. Now we are concentrating on just one genre: Writing Your Life Stories. Our tutor, Joe Parfitt, has won widespread praise for her course with us and participants have been inspired by her teaching. You can find out more details about Jo’s 2024 course by clicking the Programme icon above.

For more information, please select from the menu items above. We would love you to join us.

Lois and Bill Breckon

Testimonials from Jo’s 2023 Writing Your Life Stories week

What an invigorating week it was for me~ sweet dreams & soft pillows, lively conversations on the vine (wine) terrace, out-of-this-world food and natural beauty around each curve. Thank you, thank you, thank you! – CB

Writing My Life in My Twenties: I arrived at the Watermill knowing I was going to be a lot younger than the other participants (I just turned 23!), but I knew in my heart that this course was something I really, really wanted to do. To say it exceeded my expectations is an understatement!

I was welcomed with open arms from the minute I stepped in the front door, after arriving hassle free to the Mill thanks to Bill and Lois’. I instantly connected with everyone in the small group as a result of hearing their life stories. They took me under their wing, making me feel safe and included, knowing this was my first solo trip!

Jo, our tutor, can only be described as magic (she will definitely hate that I used an empty adjective here..sorry!) The tasks she set pushed me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to find my authentic writing voice. She encouraged me to pursue my goal of writing about my life now, in my twenties, and taught me how to do this effectively. I produced more stories that week than I had in my three years as an English undergraduate.

The hard work of Bill, Lois, Karsten and the rest of the marvellous staff will have you wanting for nothing at the Watermill. Food, drinks and transport are all taken care of for you. The carefully crafted itinerary meant that not only did we get to do our classes with Jo, but were brought to many different landmarks such as a castle, a monastery, the market and the dazzling city of Lucca.

Finally, the Watermill itself is like a movie set. I already miss opening the door of the Donatello suite and being met with the beautiful landscape in front of me. I can’t recommend the Watermill enough, no matter what age you are or what stage of life you are at. AS

Exceptional workshop holiday in beautiful Italian retreat. We attended a one week 'writing your memoir' course at this idyllic location. Lois and Bill have created something which is truly magical. Sense of being welcomed and the relaxing environment is among the best we have ever known in our extensive travels. Everything is included and nothing is too much trouble. It was an exceptional week with the retreat element being calm and the teaching sessions very stimulating. We met a diverse group of like-minds and hope to stay in touch for a very long time. J&PL

Testimonials from Jo’s previous Writing Your Life Stories weeks

Thank you for a wonderful week at the beautiful Watermill. I’ve had the best time and have returned home with lovely memories of time spent in Italy with such an inspirational group of people. I couldn’t have asked for better hosts… This trip for me has been a massive tick off my bucket list and it was made even better by the lovely group of people whom I’ve had the privilege to share the week with. It was an absolute delight, I enjoyed every minute. KH

Jo has been an inspirational teacher. I am heading home with a head full of writerly plans. This week has been an absolute delight. The setting magnificent, food sublime, and our hosts charming. The attention to detail and beauty are a sure recipe for a wonderful stay. SR

I had a really brilliant time at Posara, everyone was so hospitable and Jo is a brilliant tutor. What a joyful and inspiring world you and Lois have created there. RM

Bring your partner or friend!

Why not bring your friend or partner? They don’t have to participate in the course, but they will be able to enjoy the wonderful hospitality of the mill and, whenever they want, to come out with you to our beautiful locations.

We also offer a range of Alternative activities for partners on all our creative courses, as well as a generous £GBP 250 discount if they share a room with you.

You'll be Cool and Green at the Watermill

Solar-powered air-conditioning will keep you cool and environmentally friendly. For more information, please visit our Cool and Green page

Venice Writing Retreat

Embrace the beauty and inspiration of venice.

Venice, Italy

2025 dates TBA

10 (max) Writers/Aspiring Writers ready to refuel their creative inspiration around like-minded writers & mentors

Writers Retreat: A magical week of inspiration while being embraced by the beauty and grandeur of Venice

3-star accommodation with private bath in Venice

Daily writing workshops with facilitators, daily breakfast, lit up social hours, 5 meals  (4 dinners & lunch at cipriani's on torcello), excursion to torcello & lunch at world-renowned locanda cipriani, registration.

Reserve your place now, just $3800 single occupancy $3400 double occupancy

Let your Creativity Flow in Venice, Italy

Write Away Venice Creative Writing Retreats are designed to help your words and writing flow - and what better place than alongside the world's most majestic sweep of water, the Grand Canal. The sublime grandeur of Venice has captivated the finest writers and artists throughout history and tranquil Spring in La Serenissima is an ideal and inspiring time and setting to get your creative juices flowing.

La Serenissima awaits with her unsurpassed beauty, beguiling history, and captivating charm to bring forth your muse. The Write Away Venice Creative Writing Retreat will take place in a restored Venetian manor in the charming Dorsoduro sestiere, close to all of Venice's attractions yet in a calm, captivating neighborhood away from the hordes. Enchanting walks or passegiattas can be made on the Zattere looking out to the Giudecca, on fondamentas along canals, or through the lively Campos San Barnaba and Margherita. Artists love Venice and Venice loves the arts. This stunning setting is truly a writer's haven for unending inspiration.

Writers will stay in 3-star accommodation with private bath in a restored Venetian Manor. There will be daily workshops and Lit up social hours as well as an all day excursion to the island of Torcello with lunch at the famous Locanda Cipriani. Dinners at delectable trattorias serving specialties unique to the Venetian Lagoon. Afternoons will be free for writing and exploring or for those interested walking tours of Venice's sights.

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What people say about write away retreats, "incredibly special...".

"How grateful I am for the last week and for all I was able to take away from everything we did. I appreciate everything you did for us, and especially for me. This last week was something incredibly special, and I am so lucky to have been a part of it. Thank you, thank you, thank you!" Elizabeth O., playwright

"...the best investment I've ever made in myself!"

"This Retreat experience was so much more than I even expected. This was the best investment I've ever made in myself." Abby R., Essayist, Personal Memoir Writer

"...the best experience ever."

"My heart is still in Tuscany... I am glad I took some me time for writing in such a peaceful environment with amazing people. Thank you for the best experience ever. I miss everyone already." Masako T., Nonfiction Writer

"...couldn't possibly have loved it more!"

"I couldn’t possibly have loved it more! Thank you again for putting it on and allowing us all to come together in one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever spent time!" Kimberly P., Novelist

"...more work done in my novel in past week than in past year."

"Missing the villa and great company! I managed to get inspired enough to get more work done on my novel in the past week than in the entire past year." Aloy A., Screenwriter and Novelist

"...surrounded by people who share your passion for books and writing."

"What an experience: that workshops, the evening conversations and dinners. There's absolutely no substitute for getting to be surrounded by a group of people who share your passion for books and writing." Carolyn R., Novelist

"Loved every minute!!!!"

"Loved every minute!!!! Thank you all so much, miss you already!" Manal N., Short Story Writer, Personal Essayist

"...incredibly amazing... help, guindance, and friendship..."

"I hope you know how incredibly amazing you are! You taught me more than I ever expected in a very short amount of time. The week was filled with so many new adventures and surprises. All I could see was an impressive array of activities that you managed to put together seamlessly. Your give and take worked wonderfully for everyone in attendance. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Prague, the retreat, and mostly meeting all of you. I will remember this time fondly and with great appreciation for the help, guidance, and friendship from everyone. Thank you so much." Debbie M., Fiction Writer

"...now more inspired to continue on my novel...create productive spaces and habits."

"I thoroughly enjoyed each and every one of you during our wonderful week together and hope to see your faces again whether in person, on more book covers, TED talks, or national interviews celebrating your works. I took your advice and have used some of the writing prompts to write about my writing, completing a synopsis, a beat sheet and a back cover blurb to help light the way forward and am now more inspired to continue on my novel and create productive spaces and habits." Jillian S., Novelist

"...conversational warmth and good humour... I pondered how reality could exceed my dreams."

"Evenings are filled with the conversational warmth and good humour of like-minded participants who freely share their emotions and insights into the writing life. It can be unimaginably exhilarating to connect with people from all walks of life that share a common passion. I’m sitting at my desk again surveying my surroundings in wonder, pondering how I really got here, and yet feeling as though I have discovered a sense of place. For those wanting to explore their inner writing muse and reflect on your life thus far, a writing retreat in Tuscany may just be the path you were destined to follow. Surrounded by such beauty and mesmerised from my continued state of surreal disbelief, I pondered how reality could exceed my dreams." David S., Travel Writer

"...literally life-changing...found courage and inspiration to write every day..."

"The Paros Retreat experience was literally life-changing for me.  I've found the courage and inspiration to write every day and have written more words in the past week than I had in a year." Isabelle P., Memoirist

"inspiring... and completely transformative!"

"Extraordinarily inspiring! When I read all the reviews about how transformative this program was I was skeptical but I could not believe how completely transformative it truly was!" Kate M., Novelist & Screenwriter

"special... memorable... fabulous"

"Thank you for making all of our time so special & memorable. Every detail was obviously carefully planned, & you shepherded us through each delightful meal & activity with the kind of grace that let us blissfully forget all the work that goes into organizing a group (working) holiday. All your tips enriched every day. I had a fabulous time talking & laughing with you all week." Heather G., novelist

"ideas gleaned... inspired"

"I'm back in Chicago (and back at the office -- Day 2, ugh). But I'm working hard on my script with all the ideas gleened from the workshops and our talks and newly inspired to stay on course!" Kate H., scriptwriter

"inspiration... memories... friendship"

"Thanks for the inspiration, the friendship and all of the wonderful memories, moments which I look forward to reliving through my journal and photos - and continued friendship with a stellar bunch of people." Chris K., non-fiction writer

"beautiful souls...sharing"

"Thank you, to each of you beautiful souls, for sharing your lives and stories this week and being so attentive and helpful with mine. I had no idea that I'd take so much away from the last 9 days." Liz S., dramatist

"invigorating...filled with joy...bursting with ideas"

"I was nervous on arrival, not quite sure what to expect meeting strangers with whom I would be spending the ensuing week. Those fears dissolved with the welcome dinner and upon waking the following morning, I felt a sense of hope that had long been absent from my life. Each day proved more invigorating than the previous and by the end of the week my heart was filled with joy, my journal overflowing with words, and my mind bursting with ideas. I see a way forward in my writing that was lost to me prior and have made bonds that will last a lifetime." Isabelle T., memoir writer

"trip of a lifetime"

"I've gotta say this has absolutely been a trip of a lifetime. My face hurts from smiling so much, my mind is reeling with input and ideas. I feel inspired. Invigorated." Lisa D., screenwriter

"life-changing"

"Thanks for the energy and inspiration! What a life-changing week, my notebooks are filling!" Maureen J., travel & non-fiction writer

"re-inspired my writing... creative well"

"I really can't put into words my experience at the Write Away retreat. I went as a traveler/writer should, with an open mind and heart, and what I have received has not only re-inspired my writing, but has given me a creative well to draw upon. I believe if that well is to ever run dry I can reflect upon my time at the retreat and again be re-inspired." Travis K., fiction writer

"laughter...deep talks...back on course"

"I already miss you all, our boisterous laughter, our deep talks of life and writing, and the salient and sometimes silly jabber. During our week together, you all helped me remember how good life can be, and who I was trying to be before I strayed from my path. I'll be grateful forever, to all of you, for nudging me back on course, in both life and in writing." Amy M. novelist

"teachable moments...creative input...intellectual generosity"

"The teachable moments, the constructive creative input, infectuous laughter and the immense intellectual propensity and generosity of the facilitators along side the participant writers is a must for any writer." Mike L., novelist

"blown away... well organized"

"I was blown away by the well organized dining and travel accommodations that took the usual anxiety away from travel. To all this I say thank you with a big heart and anyone one that embarks on a Write Away Retreat will have it placed as an anchor in their hearts." Jesse T.,

"first book deal... productive workshops...inspired"

"The Write Away retreat was given to me as a surprise gift, I just signed my first book deal based on my blog and proposal and I needed to decide on the plan for my book and ideas to fill the pages. I found both at the retreat. After each productive workshop, I was raring to get planning and writing. I'm feeling inspired and well-armed with lots of thoughts for moving forward with my book." Sarah M., non-fiction lifestyle writer

"re-inspired my writing...lifetime memoriers"

"My experience in Greece… has not only re-inspired my writing but it has also re-invented how I think about writing and how I'll approach it in the future. Days flew by in a heady haze of meeting great new people, stimulating writing workshops and enjoying fantastic food (and drink) but I know the experience and memories of the trip are something that will stay with me forever! ." Neil F., fiction writer

"...time... attention...inspiring talks..."

"What a wonderful week! The opportunity to be surrounded by so many creative people all sharing the common interest of writing was fantastic. The give and take and supportive atmosphere of the workshops was terrific but some of the best memories are the inspiring talks during the evening social gatherings." Anwar M., fiction writer

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Creative Writing

Florence University of the Arts - The American University of Florence

Course Description

This is an introduction to fiction writing. It covers the technical elements of fiction writing through in-class writing exercises that develop dialogue, voice, plot, image, character development, point of view, scene, structure and other prose skills. The in-class work will be augmented with homework assignments which students will use in writing larger pieces of fiction. Students will learn to critique work from a writer's perspective.

Course Name

Sessions available, host university.

Florence, Italy

Area of Study

Communication Studies, Creative Writing

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Taught In English

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ISA offers course level recommendations in an effort to facilitate the determination of course levels by credential evaluators.We advice each institution to have their own credentials evaluator make the final decision regrading course levels.

Hours & Credits

• Recommended U.S. Semester Credits 3
• Recommended U.S. Quarter Units 4

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3 Creative Writing Courses to Explore When You Study in Italy

Studying abroad in Rome is a transformative experience for any student looking to get the most out of their education studies. John Cabot University offers small class sizes with students representing over 70 countries, creating a unique and fulfilling learning experience alongside your international peers. 

Creative writing courses are part of the English Language and Literature department, and seats are filled with students that have career goals in various disciplines. Whether you want to go into law, journalism, education, or business, creative writing courses can help you develop vital writing skills that are useful across many industries. Explore the different creative writing courses you can take while studying abroad.

1. Literature and Creative Writing: How to Read Like a Writer

An interesting approach to this literature course requires students to develop skills for reading literature with an intent to improve their own writing. As both a reading and writing-intensive course, you will get to explore many literary works while practicing your own unique writing style and implementing new skills. 

The "How to Read Like a Writer” course is perfect for you as you begin your journey in creative writing. You will get to focus on the reading of the literature not just as an audience member, but as a fellow writer. Examine these beautiful literary works from the view of the practice of fiction writing, and use their literary cues and techniques to foster your fiction writing skills. 

This course will help you utilize literary works to improve your own writing as you study in Italy

2. Creative Writing Workshop: Mixed Genre

The Creative Writing Mixed Genre course ( CW 205 ) at John Cabot University provides an introduction to the main elements of creative writing. Taking this course while you study English in Rome will allow you to practice writing fiction, poetry, nonfiction, and stage/screenwriting. Whether or not you are majoring in English Literature , you will gain valuable insight into the historic origins of writing techniques while in the historic setting of Rome.

This JCU course dives deep into the major issues of literary aesthetics. Every piece of literature uses literary techniques to achieve a unique writing aesthetic that draws from different philosophical ideas. Breaking down pieces of literature to probe into these major issues creates a deeper understanding of the work, as well as a new appreciation for your own creative writing style and what may influence your own work. Getting your feet wet in a number of creative writing styles allows you to pinpoint which ones you enjoy most and are the most comfortable with.

3. Creative Writing Workshop: Writing the Eternal City While You Study in Italy

The “Writing the Eternal City” course is an interdisciplinary writing workshop that uses the city of Rome as its muse while instructors offer guidance in several genres of creative writing. You will examine a number of works inspired by the Eternal City while learning how to evaluate literature in the light of a historic precedent.

While paying due attention to Rome’s beauty, the workshop will also have you explore the ancient city’s contemporary contradictions that writers draw upon for their pieces. You will have the opportunity to identify where these writers both perpetuate and dismantle certain myths about Rome while you study in Italy . Your final portfolio from this workshop will be filled with written interpretations in response to everything you’ve read and learned about the Eternal City.

Interested in attending an American university in Italy ?

Contact John Cabot University for more information!

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More From Forbes

A writing room: the new marketplace of writer classes, retreats, and collectives.

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A Writing Room is one of the fast-growing writer collectives. The four co-founders (left to right): ... [+] Reese Zecchin, Director of Production; Jacob Nordby, Director of Writer Development; A. Ashe, Creative Director; Claire Giovino, Community Director.

The past decade has brought an explosion in the number of books published each year in the United States (an estimated three to four million annually). In turn, this explosion is bringing a growing and evolving marketplace of writer classes, retreats and collectives. It is a marketplace creating new jobs and entrepreneurship opportunities—both for mainstream tech, marketing and managerial workers, as well as for writer/artist denizens of America’s bohemia.

The Drivers of Growth in Book Publishing

The number of book sales in the United States remains healthy, though it has leveled off in the past four years. In 2020, 756.82 million book unit sales were made in the US alone. This number climbed to 837.66 million in 2021, before falling slightly to 787.65 million units in 2022 and 767.36 million units in 2023.

What has changed dramatically has been the number of books published. Steve Piersanti of Berrett-Koehler Publishers estimates that three million books were published in the US, up 10 times from the number only 16 years ago . Other estimates put the number of published books annually at closer to four million .

The main driver of this growth in books published has been self-publishing. According to Bowker , which provides tools for self-publishing, an estimated 2.3 million books were self-published in 2021. Up through the 1990s (now the distant past in publishing), writers of all types of books, fiction and nonfiction, were dependent on convincing publishing houses to publish their work. As the technology for self-publishing and print on demand grew in the early 2000s, writers could publish on their own, and a very large number of Americans began to do so.

Fueling growth also is the level of affluence and discretionary income that an increasing segment of American society is reaching. For centuries, theorists across the political spectrum have envisioned a society, freed from basic economic needs, pursuing creative activities, with writing as a primary activity. In The German Ideology , Karl Marx could write about the economy of abundance in which individuals pursue writing as one of a series of daily activities—hunt in the morning, fish in the afternoon, write criticism in the evening. John Maynard Keynes in a 1930 essay, “ Economic Possibilities for Our Grandchildren” , envisions a time a hundred years forward (2030) in which writing is no longer the province of the upper classes. Contemporary theorists on the future of work, such as John Tamny, similarly see a blooming of creative and artistic activities by the average citizen.

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, a writing room, and the emerging marketplace of writer training.

A marketplace of writing coaches, classes and retreats expanded throughout the late twentieth century and first years of the twentieth century. Published authors and even recently-minted graduates of MFA programs hung out shingles for individual coaching and small classes. Colleges expanded their writing programs and certifications, and writer retreats multiplied. Co-working and literary event spaces were established in major cities ( The Writers Room in New York, The Writers Grotto in San Francisco). But the marketplace continued to bump up against geographic and logistical limitations.

Then, along the came the internet, and its evolution.

Today, hundreds of businesses throughout the country offer assistance to aspiring writers. Many continue to offer some in-person assistance through coaching, classes or retreats. But as in other fields, the internet has allowed for a nationwide (worldwide) reach that these businesses are taking advantage of to scale. The major pre-internet writer assistance companies, such as The Writers Studio , added online courses and instruction, and the early internet-based companies from the 1990s, such as Writers.com (a pioneer in the internet field), steadily expanded their offerings. New enterprises are springing up on a regular basis, including the writer collectives.

A Writing Room is one of the fastest growing of the writer collectives, and its suite of services illustrate the how the field is evolving.

A Writing Room has its roots in the writing classes that novelist Anne Lamott had been teaching for some years, and her interest by the early 2020s in creating a larger on-going community of writers. Lamott connected with a team of four entrepreneurs who had experience with previous start-ups and expertise in online tools. In early 2023 they set out to develop A Writing Room.

Novelist Anne Lamott, one of the partners in A Writing Room.

A Writing Room launched in June 2023, and followed a few months later with an inaugural writers retreat in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Though hastily arranged, the retreat attracted more than 400 in person attendees and over 1600 attendees online. In the first half of 2024, the company set up a membership structure of monthly and annual memberships. Within months, over 550 writers had joined.

The products that members can access are aimed in part at teaching the craft of writing. In a recent author discussion (with close to 400 participants joining online) Lamott discussed the craft of writing with novelist Donna Levin . Both started publishing in the 1980s. They noted how much publishing and the role of the writer have changed, but emphasized the fundamentals that have remained over their forty years, related to craft and the responsibility of the writer: the daily commitment, the careful development of plot and characters, the numerous rewrites (as many as you think you need, and one more).

A Writing Room offers a series of on-demand courses, online discussions with authors and publishing professionals, and daily writing prompts, built around writing as craft. It further offers instruction on the paths to and options for publication, building a following of readers.

At its center, A Writing Room is about being part of a community of writers, giving and receiving regular feedback from other members, as well as feedback from writing mentors and coaches. In an interview earlier this year, Lamott explained:

The great myth about writing is that it's an entirely solitary activity. This really isn't true. Every book I've ever written has been with a lot of help from my community. I wouldn't be the writer I am today — and wouldn't even want to write — without people to share the process and finished work. Writing is a process, but it doesn't have to (and really shouldn't be) done in total isolation.

The writing process can feel overwhelming. It often does for me. Believe me, a trusted writing friend is a secret to life.

Other emerging writing collectives also emphasize community and cooperation. Levin underscored this point in the recent online discussion: “Writing can be such an isolated activity, and to some extent needs to be. You want to seek out a community that can give you the support you need and also the honest feedback.”

How the New Marketplace Is Evolving And Jobs Created

The founders of A Writing Room know that the marketplace for writer assistance is fast changing, and they need to be quick to adapt to increased competition. Already, several developments are driving change in the field:

· The entrance of major online education companies (i.e. Masters Class , Coursera, Udemy ).

· Faculty recruitment of writers with built-in audiences of sizable twitter and other social media followings.

· Partnerships with the major publishers and agencies, who hold out the promise of publication to participants of the classes, retreats and collectives.

· Specializations by race and ethnicity, gender, geography and genre.

· Market segmentation, and attention to higher income consumers.

A number of these developments reflect the changes in the broader publishing world and are likely to continue. Overall, the marketplace itself will be expanding, as publishing technology advances, along with discretionary income.

The jobs being generated by this new marketplace are a mix of tech, administrative, and writing coach positions. At A Writing Room, recent hires include a community liaison, video editor, customer support, and a “beta reader” providing feedback to writers on their drafts. The hiring process is sweeping up into jobs not only workers who have been in the regular economy, but also residents of America’s bohemia: writers and artists who previously were outside of (and often scornful of) the market system. What can be better than that.

In his 2023 book, The Novel, Who Needs It , Joseph Epstein, former editor of American Scholar , offers a paean to fiction as above all other intellectual endeavors that seek to understand human behavior. But what he says of fiction is true of other writing (memoir, history, even forms of self-help) that arouses the mind.

Yes, there are way too many books published each year, and yes only a very small percentage of writers will earn any significant income from their writing. But who knows what individual book will succeed commercially or critically, or add to our shared knowledge or wisdom. And really, why not encourage the craft of writing. How much does America benefit from most of the paper-pushing, meetings and e-mails that now pass for work in our economy of affluence.

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