Connecticut Writing Resources

Posted by David Duhr in Writing Resources      17 comments

Aug
22

Next up in our series of State Writing Resources is Connecticut. And typing–and then retyping, because I almost always eff it up–Connecticut always makes me think of this scene from the forgotten Woody Allen film Small Times Crooks, where Woody’s character, when presented with the opportunity to be tutored, in a way, by Hugh Grant’s character, says “I would like to learn how to spell Connecticut.”

Anywho. Connecticut is known as “The Nutmeg State.” Do with that what you will. Among the writers with CT ties are the great Madeleine L’Engle, poet Russell Edson, whose readings are delightful, and Nina Wilcox Putnam.

Presented in no particular order, here are ten Connecticut writing resources, from conferences to local critique groups to literary magazines. If you live in The Nutmeg State (snicker) or are planning a move there, these are some organizations you might want to take a peek at.

1) Westport Writers’ Workshop

Offers enriching, supportive creative writing workshops designed to nurture your creativity, inspire your imagination, and develop your writing skills.

2) The Elizabeth Ayres Center for Creative Writing

These online writing courses and East Coast retreats for writers give you nurturing instruction and supportive community.

3) Long Ridge Writers Group

Learn how to write both adult fiction and nonfiction in the course “Breaking into Print.” The group’s instructors are professional writers and editors who develop teaching plans for your individual needs and goals.

4) Connecticut Authors and Publishers Association

This organization’s goal is to help authors (and aspiring authors) improve their writing and marketing skills and increase the visibility and sales of their books, columns and articles by providing a forum for the exchange of ideas and information.

5) Wesleyan Writers Conference

This conference welcomes new writers, established writers, and everyone interested in the writer’s craft. The program includes seminars, workshops, readings, panel discussions, and manuscript consultations, all designed to offer careful attention to your work.

6) Yale Writers’ Conference

A ten-day program of workshops, master classes, individual conferences and readings.

7) Word for Words

Seminars and workshops in the Danbury area.

8) Central Connecticut Writers Group

A group of writers who meet for critiquing each other’s work in and around Middletown.

9) Institute of Children’s Literature

For more than 40 years, the Institute of Children’s Literature has offered the premier writing course, books, and a newsletter to adults interested in learning how to write and be published for children and teens.

10) Northern Connecticut Writers Workshop

A Meetup group in the Somers area with 200+ writers. Meets every other week and welcomes writers of all levels and all genres.

Help us add to this list, Nutmeggers! Do you run a local writing group or a lit journal we should be aware of? Feel free to share info and links in the comments section below.