Join us in the Steinberg Room on Sunday November 23rd at 2:00PM for our latest writing workshop with poet and teaching artist Danielle Gasparro. Registration is required as seats are limited. All registered attendees will get an email reminder the day before the program.


Program Description: It's no secret that when it comes to great writing, there is one guiding principle of craft that's regarded across all genres as a kind of literary "north star": What is most personal is most universal. Less commonly known, however, is a clear, practical answer to the vital question this paradoxical maxim raises: How do we as writers actively work to ensure the choices we're making on the page serve the reader and not our egos? For those of us who are drawn to creative nonfiction, composing highly subjective works that speak deeply to many people is as pivotal an undertaking as it is persnickety. Fortunately, it is also—possible! This fun, far-reaching workshop inspires as it delivers on the "how-to" promise, offering a range of accessible, actionable tools we can draw upon when striving to render our most private truths and emotions with literary flair. Through dynamic craft talks and close, interactive readings, we'll examine how masterful writers integrate the language of lived detail with imagination to produce fiercely intimate works that address shared aspects of the human experience. The program culminates in a powerful sequence of writing prompts designed to generate a vivid collection of defining life moments—called "Soularoids"—from which we'll draft a one-page personal narrative, memoir, or lyrical vignette aimed at heeding the workshop's celebrated literary creed. In the spirit of the holiday season, attendees will be given the option to keep someone special in mind as they write (including themselves!) to whom they might present a printed, framed final version of the piece as a marvel of a literary gift!

Writers and readers of all backgrounds and interest levels are encouraged to partake in this vibrant, eye-opening program. Light snacks will be provided (tools are tools!) and seating will be limited—register today to secure your spot!

About the Instructor: Danielle Gasparro is a Hudson River Valley-based wordsmith, songsmith, and teaching artist. She holds an MFA in Poetry from New England College and a BA in Creative Writing with honors from Florida State University. A published poet and essayist and a passionate educator, Gasparro regularly presents a wide variety of literary programs in partnership with public libraries and arts education organizations. She is currently pursuing an MFA in Nonfiction with Goucher College, where she’s developing her first book, a hybrid memoir that interweaves poetry, nonfiction vignettes, and photography. Learn more and sample her published literary and musical works at: daniellegasparro.com