In April, i went for my first writers’ retreat and got to write an article for it in our SCBWI (Society for Children’s Books Writers and Illustrators) Swiss Chapter Newsletter. Here it is with some accompanying pictures:
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My first Writer’s Retreat with some fabulous fellow-creatives was definitely an inspiration and encouragement to keep on writing.
The place was a quaint little Swiss hotel, run by some lovely people, who catered to all our needs. And because SCBWI was already there before, it felt just a tiny bit like family. The rooms were simple but clean and very nice. I love the sense of history in the place, especially the beautiful landing with its vintage furniture, which joins the two wings. The food was excellent, it took some willpower not to overeat.
The weather was amazingly inviting, sunny and bright all weekend, which made the gorgeous views even more spectacular; making the mountains and lake really sing.
Elisabeth and Monika have done superbly, finding this truly stunning place.
Have I used enough superlatives to tempt you to come for the next one yet? No?
Well, here’s more.
I did not tell many people I was going for a writer’s retreat. I mean, what would they think? “Can’t you just write anywhere?” That’s what we hear most often about a writer’s work, isn’t it? “Oh, all you need is a desk, just sit and write, correct?”
On the one hand, that may be true, to a certain extent. But on the other hand, there is something to be said about having someone else, sitting across from you, facing similar struggles, trying to get that bestseller from brain to paper – and it’s called camaraderie or some prefer community.
We helped each other solve plot problems, we encouraged each other, giving constructive feedback, we shared our creative pains and we took refreshing walks which led to unexpected little adventures (one involving a little black lamb – go ask the participants for details).
All that sharing gave me a new perspective and insight into my craft, which I would, otherwise, not have gained if I just sat at my own desk all the time. I am so glad I took this opportunity to be with and hear from other creatives.
To quote The Write Practice, “We need each other. We need encouragement and kindness as we struggle against the forces of unkindness in this world, and the worlds we imagine. We need community like we need cold, refreshing water on a hot, summer day.”
So thank you all for being such an awesome community. See you at the next event.
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So what do you think of my article?
Do you write? If you write for children, or are thinking of diving into the world of children’s books, i highly recommend joining a community like SCBWI!
syc
But the contest organisers have been wonderful in giving YOU, the reader of stories, a chance to vote for your favourite story. Not all the entries are listed because people could opt out of being listed for the Readers’ Choice Award, however, i have been told that at least 95% of the stories written for the Summer Writing Contest are listed.
trippingdifferently 