12 Vermont Writing Resources
Posted by David Duhr in 
Geographically it’s a long way from Utah to Vermont, but we here at WriteByNight roll alphabetically, yo! (Gosh, what a silly intro. I guess there are only so many interesting ways to introduce a State Writing Resources series post. It’s a good thing we’re at the Vs.)
Didja know that Vermont wasn’t one of the original 13 colonies, contrary to what you may think without Wikipedia handy? Between 1777, when it declared its own independence from Great Britain, and 1791, when it joined the Union, Vermont was an independent republic called … Vermont Republic. Before then, New Hampshire, New York and England each wanted its grubby paws on Vermont’s resources.
Does that include its writing resources, you may wonder? Well, take a peek at the list below and judge for yourself. But if we were New Hampshire, New York or England, we’d sure want to claim these as our own.
Presented in no particular order, here are 12 Vermont writing resources, from conferences to local critique groups to literary magazines. If you are a Green Mountain stater or are planning to become one, these are some organizations you might want to take a peek at.
1) Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference
Workshops, lectures and classes held in the shadow of the Green Mountains. Welcomes over 200 writers annually, along with distinguished faculty, and many agents and editors from major publishing houses and literary firms.
Publishes new fiction, poetry and nonfiction that is both challenging and inviting.
Fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, visual art, young adult and children’s writing, writing for the stage and screen, interviews, reviews and craft essays. Its print issue comes out annually in the fall.
4) Brattleboro Literary Festival
Annual, well-regarded conference, three days’ worth of readings, panel discussions and special events, featuring emerging and established authors. All events are free.
The largest international artists’ and writers’ residency program in the U.S., hosting 50 visual artists and writers each month from across the country and around the world. Provides 4-12-week studio residencies in the Green Mountains.
An association of poets and supporters who join in promoting an interest in poetry through meetings, workshops, readings, contests and contributions to the society’s chapbook. Anyone may join, including high school and college students and non-residents of Vermont.
Now in its 55th year, the BWC offers monthly meetings, critiquing, contests and more.
8) Postgraduate Writers’ Conference
A summer immersion program for writers with MFAs (or equivalent), offering small workshops of 5-6 participants.
Offers workshops, seminars and community for Vermont writing of all types and experience levels.
10) Green Mountain Writer’s Conference
A week-long gathering of developing writers who practice the art and craft of writing under the close tutelage of professional authors. Takes place on the shores of a private lake in rural Vermont.
An annual featuring poetry, fiction, drama and personal essays from and about New England.
12) The Silo
A student-run and produced journal of arts and letters at Bennington College. Offers fiction and poetry, as well as audio and video on its website.
Help us add to this list, Vermonters! 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.