September Writing Prompts
Q: Before we jump into discussing Book Revision Lab, can you tell us a little bit about yourself and how you’ve come to be a part of Project Write Now?
A: I live in Fair Haven, New Jersey, with my wife and two sons and dog, Luna. Jennifer Chauhan, Allison Tevald, and I founded Project Write Now to be the writing center we always wished we had growing up and as adults. Before we started PWN, I didn’t know anyone near me who was a writer. Now I have dozens of writer friends.
Q: What made you spearhead Project Write Now’s new book inc division?
A: I’ve gone to tons of workshops, got an MFA, and a novel writing fellowship too. They were all great ways to improve my craft, but something was missing—a community of writers who can support each other for the long haul because books aren’t done in a semester; they take time. Our goal has been to build this community in book inc.
Q: How did the new Book Revision Lab come about?
A: Like our other programs, we recognized a need in our community. Many writers have a draft of a memoir or novel they’ve completed but don’t know what to do with it. The Book Revision Lab will help them.
Q: What can a participant expect from the program?
A: Participants can expect practical feedback, encouragement, and support from a group of dedicated writers who have a vested interest in your success to help you realize the potential of your book. To realize that you no longer have to go it alone—writing and revising in a community is not only more effective, it’s a lot more fun too.
Q: Who’s your ideal Book Revision Lab student?
A: Someone who has a completed manuscript they’d love to get out in the world. Who has the time, motivation, and support at home to take their project to the next step. Who’d thrive in a community and would enjoy and get a deep sense of satisfaction helping other writers realize the artistic and commercial potential of their manuscripts.
Q: We understand there’s an application process. Is it difficult to join Book Revision Lab?
A: There is an application but the process isn’t difficult. We are looking to get to know you and your project better. We are not judging you or evaluating the quality of your work. We only want to make sure the program is a good fit for you and vice versa. We believe with the right support and encouragement, everyone can realize the potential of their work by building their own confidence as artists to do so.
Q: William Faulkner famously said, “In writing, you must kill all your darlings.” What would you say about the revision process?
A: The revision process can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right support and direction, it can be very satisfying and a lot of fun—like an elaborate puzzle only you can solve. That’s what memoirs and novels ultimately are. It’s essential you get meaningful feedback that gives you insight into how readers experience your book so you can revise the book to better meet your artistic goals.
Thanks, Greg, for talking with us today about book inc’s Book Revision Lab.
To learn more about the program and apply, please go to bookinc.org/programs-services/book-revision-lab-six-months.
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