Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism launches a fully-funded workshop to support mid-career journalists in their pursuit of publishing their first novel or book-length work of fiction.
Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications, in collaboration with acclaimed author George R.R. Martin, is pleased to announce the opening of applications for the inaugural George R.R. Martin Summer Intensive Writing Workshop. This unique program aims to assist mid-career journalists in transitioning from news narratives to writing fictional prose. With a fully-funded seven-day writing intensive, participants will have the opportunity to learn from renowned novelists and writing instructors, develop their writing skills, and receive guidance from industry professionals. The workshop, set to take place in Evanston, Illinois, from July 10 to 17, 2024, promises to be a transformative experience for aspiring authors.
A Bridge Between Journalism and Fiction
Journalism has long been a platform for compelling storytelling, with journalists possessing a wealth of stories and ideas that have the potential to be transformed into rich novels. Recognizing this untapped potential, Cheryl Lu-Lien Tan, Medill’s George R.R. Martin Chair in Storytelling, spearheads the program. Tan, an accomplished author herself, understands the challenges journalists face when transitioning into the realm of creative writing. Through this workshop, she aims to bridge the gap between journalism and fiction, empowering journalists to explore their creativity and embark on a new literary journey.
A Generous Gift from George R.R. Martin
The George R.R. Martin Summer Intensive Writing Workshop is made possible through a generous $3 million gift from George R.R. Martin himself. Renowned for his critically acclaimed “A Song of Ice and Fire” novels and as the co-executive producer of the Emmy award-winning “Game of Thrones” series, Martin recognizes the importance of nurturing talent and providing opportunities for aspiring writers. His donation serves as a testament to his commitment to supporting the next generation of storytellers.
A Week of Immersive Learning and Writing
The week-long program will offer a comprehensive curriculum covering various aspects of creating fictional prose. Participants will engage in classes led by award-winning novelists and writing instructors, gaining insights into character development, plot structure, dialogue, and more. The workshop will also provide dedicated writing time, allowing participants to immerse themselves in their projects and make significant progress. In addition, the workshop will include workshops and discussions where participants can receive constructive feedback on their work from their peers and mentors.
Forging Connections in the Publishing Industry
One of the unique aspects of the George R.R. Martin Summer Intensive Writing Workshop is the opportunity for participants to connect with industry professionals. Editors, publishers, and literary agents will be present to provide guidance and offer insights into the publishing world. These interactions will enable participants to understand the publishing process, learn about market trends, and potentially secure representation for their works. The workshop aims to equip participants not only with the necessary writing skills but also with the knowledge and connections needed to navigate the publishing industry successfully.
Building a New Medill Library
Medill has a rich history of producing exceptional journalists, many of whom have gone on to achieve great success in their careers. With the George R.R. Martin Summer Intensive Writing Workshop, Medill aims to expand its impact by helping talented journalists transform their ideas for fiction projects into stellar books. By nurturing creativity and providing the necessary support, Medill seeks to build a new library of compelling stories, further cementing its reputation as a hub for storytelling excellence.
Conclusion:
The George R.R. Martin Summer Intensive Writing Workshop offers a unique opportunity for mid-career journalists to explore their creativity and venture into the realm of creative writing. Through a fully-funded seven-day program, participants will receive instruction from renowned novelists, dedicated writing time, and invaluable feedback from industry professionals. This workshop not only aims to develop participants’ writing skills but also to provide the necessary knowledge and connections to navigate the publishing industry successfully. With the generous support of George R.R. Martin, Medill is poised to empower journalists to become the next generation of celebrated authors. The deadline to apply for this transformative experience is January 16, 2024. Don’t miss this chance to embark on a new literary journey and bring your storytelling talents to new heights.
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