Pen to paper

By Nate Robson / The Citizen

Thursday, September 4, 2008 11:50 PM EDT

Anyone suffering from writer's block or just looking to improve their writing will have a chance to learn new skills and techniques if they enroll in writing classes at the Auburn YMCA.
“There's no guarantee that you will come out Ernest Hemingway, but it will point out specific things, such as the use of language and developing a focus,” said Jim Delaney, program coordinator for the Writer's Voice.

With classes ranging from Introduction to Journal Writing to Advanced Fiction, students will be able to find a genre they're interested in at a writing level they're comfortable with, Delaney said.

“We are giving people real information in a more informal atmosphere than a traditional classroom,” he said. “You are not getting grades and there will not be any paper assignments. We have found that people have a good time doing these classes and they enjoy the chance to meet other people who are doing something similar. It's a great networking experience.”

Helen O'Leary, who will be teaching two of the classes, said the experience was just as enjoyable for the teachers as well.

“It's a little selfish, but I don't see myself as a teacher, I am a facilitator,” O'Leary said. “I get so much more in return because of it. This gives me the opportunity to practice creative writing and get beyond my own creative blocks while helping others do the same.”

While the sessions may not be treated as actual classes, the students will be getting advice and help from experienced teachers, Delaney said. Delaney has a master's degree in English, and two others hold writing-related master's degrees. One teacher was even a former student.

“I took a fiction course,” O'Leary said. “With each teacher you will come away with something different, but with (Delaney), he did a lot of different workshops. You would read a piece out-loud and people would give you feedback. I read a few short stories and got a lot of good, positive feedback. That was an excellent class and this is such a great program for people living in the area.”

Nate Robson

253-5311 ext. 248

nathan.robson@lee.net

If you go.

What: “The Writer's Voice” series

When: Classes begin at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 9

Where: Auburn YMCA, 27 William St., Auburn

Info: Call 253-5304

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