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There is a new take on writing about the natural world that eschews the romantic view and instead connects with the grit of it - see, for example, H is for Hawk by Helen McDonald, The Shepherd's Life by James Rebanks or the work of Robert Macfarlane. This was the springboard for our two-hour workshop (which wasn't long enough - more please, Bridget!).
We discussed ways into writing - using the five senses; sensations in the body; emotion; movement; and rhythm - then we went off into the park to write. Back in the cafe there was more discussion, but no obligation to share. One of our group remarked on how much more relaxed we all were after our first stint outside, and it's true: we all started to unfurl. It's corny, I know, but it really was as though allowing ourselves to connect with nature opened up something inside us.
Anyway, I came away feeling inspired and with pages of notes that I shall 'do something with one day'. Do check out the Wild Words website here.
Hi Julia, somehow you have dropped of my radar, and I have no idea why?
ReplyDeleteI couldn't find your blog!
Anyway, I'm here now, and that workshop sounds wonderful, I absolutely love being outside in the fresh air, amongst the trees, listening to the birds singing.
Sounds like you had a great session, I'm going to check it out now.
Welcome back, Maria! I hope you find some inspiration in a park near you.
DeleteWriting in the park sounds lovely! I never thought about how it could improve your writing, but it makes sense. Going with a group is a good idea. You don't have to worry about weirdos as much and can just focus on your writing.
ReplyDeleteHave a go, Kimberly, and let me know how you get on.
DeleteThat sounds brilliant, and I agree. Sometimes I go to our local park, sit on a bench and watch the ducks and something completely different comes to mind with the writing. Nature does do us the world of good. People with mental health problems need more help to connect with nature and walk and write. Look forward to hearing when you sell some of the writing from those notes.
ReplyDeleteIt's a great way to stimulate all the senses, Susan.
DeleteThe nature workshop sounds great Julia, and wild words is a great website. Hope I'm in time to enter that competiton.
ReplyDeleteGood luck with the comp.
DeleteHow lovely! Don't do what I do and put your notes in a drawer only to forget about them.
ReplyDeleteMy notebook is sitting accusingly on my desk, Wendy.
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