“The act of writing is solitary, and deep in the muck of creating, we can be met with self-doubt and creative blocks: Why do I write? How do I tell my story? Is there anything of value here?” says instructor Shelby Hinte. “The truth is, many of us writers need each other’s company to keep our creativity flowing, our ideas brimming, our sense of purpose intact.”
Often meeting every other week over six sessions, the Creative Nonfiction Writing Group is designed to foster creative growth where writers can hold each other accountable, give and receive feedback, and ultimately form relationships with other writers that will encourage them to commit to the page the stories they feel most called to tell.
Class meetings will consist of short readings, fun and lively discussions, and writing activities to jumpstart one’s practice and explore craft. Though not as intensive as a workshop, the class will offer ample opportunities to share work and receive feedback from the group and instructor. Depending on the group’s goals, the instructor can also provide guidance about publishing as well as other professional pursuits that might be top of mind.
In between class meetings, there will be optional homework curated for each student’s specific needs and desires. There will also be light partner exchanges so that everyone will remain accountable to each other and to their writing while outside of class.
Over the course of six class meetings, students will build tight and meaningful connections with one another, feel committed to and energized by their writing pursuits, and sustain their writing practice and projects in ways that are difficult to achieve outside of community. Shelby will also provide expert guidance and support for participants who are hungry to be lifted up by a community of spirited writers.
About The Writing Salon's In-Person Classes
Before your class meets, you'll receive an email from The Writing Salon with more information about the class. If you have any questions about in-person learning, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at hello@writingsalons.com.
Shelby Hinte has led and supported writing workshops at San Francisco State University and in the community, including teaching creative writing to incarcerated adults and youth on juvenile probation. She is the Associate Editor of Write or Die Magazine where she edits essays and interviews. She has served as a reader and intern at various independent presses including ZYZZYVA, Split/Lip Press, and No Contact. Her work has been featured in BOMB, ZYZZYVA, SmokeLong Quarterly, Hobart, The Rumpus, and elsewhere. Her first novel, HOWLING WOMEN, is forthcoming from LEFTOVER Books (2025).
- Sunday, January 12, 6:30pm-8:30pm
- Sunday, January 26, 6:30pm-8:30pm
- Sunday, February 09, 6:30pm-8:30pm
- Sunday, February 23, 6:30pm-8:30pm
- Sunday, March 09, 6:30pm-8:30pm
- Sunday, March 16, 6:30pm-8:30pm
Shelby is very warm and inviting in her style, which facilitated a welcoming atmosphere in the class. She also does a really good job of listening to our responses and pulling out interesting gems to reiterate. I always felt heard and understood.
Shelby was super supportive (both during class & in written feedback), an expert on the subject with a wealth of ideas, and did a good job of fostering a welcoming sense of community.
Shelby is a fantastic teacher. She’s so knowledgeable, well-read, enthusiastic, and inspiring.
I found Shelby's ability to listen while she teaches inspiring and engaging. It was easy to follow the threads and digest the material because it was so interactive and, at times, conversational.