The Tin House Summer Workshop, a beacon of literary excellence, returned in 2018 to its scenic home at Reed College in Portland, Oregon. From June 18 to July 1, aspiring writers and publishing professionals converged for an immersive, transformative experience that has become a staple in the literary calendar.
About the Tin House Summer Workshop
Founded in 2005, the Tin House Summer Workshop is an annual event hosted by Tin House, a renowned independent literary magazine. The workshop offers a unique opportunity for writers to hone their craft, engage with esteemed faculty, and connect with fellow writers in a supportive and creative environment.
2018 Faculty and Guest Speakers
The 2018 workshop boasted an impressive lineup of faculty and guest speakers, including National Book Award winner Lorrie Moore, Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Vijay Seshadri, and acclaimed authors like ZZ Packer, Karen Russell, and Matthew Klam. Their collective wisdom and expertise provided invaluable guidance to the workshop participants.
Workshop Tracks and Courses
The 2018 workshop offered a diverse range of courses, catering to various literary genres and skill levels. Participants could choose from tracks in Fiction, Poetry, Nonfiction, and Publishing. Some of the courses included:
- Fiction: "The Art of the Short Story" with Lorrie Moore, "Novel in a Flash" with Karen Russell
- Poetry: "Poetry as Lyric Essay" with Vijay Seshadri, "Poetry and the Body" with Aimee Nezhukumatathil
- Nonfiction: "The Personal Essay" with ZZ Packer, "Creative Nonfiction: Fact and Imagination" with Matthew Klam
- Publishing: "The Art of the Edit" with Tin House editors, "The Business of Publishing" with industry professionals
Life at the Workshop
Life at the Tin House Summer Workshop is a blend of intense literary focus and leisurely exploration. Days are filled with workshops, craft lectures, and one-on-one conferences with faculty. Evenings bring readings, panel discussions, and social events, providing ample opportunities for participants to engage with each other and the visiting authors.
Reed College's picturesque campus, with its lush gardens and historic architecture, serves as the perfect backdrop for this intellectual and creative retreat. Portland's vibrant food scene and proximity to the great outdoors offer further enrichment and inspiration.
Alumni Success Stories
The Tin House Summer Workshop has a proven track record of launching and advancing literary careers. Many alumni have gone on to publish books, win prestigious awards, and secure positions in the publishing industry. Some notable alumni include National Book Award winner Phil Klay, Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Ocean Vuong, and bestselling author Emma Cline.
For those seeking to elevate their writing and connect with a passionate literary community, the Tin House Summer Workshop remains an unparalleled opportunity. Mark your calendars for the next iteration of this transformative event.
