Writing Retreat - Whole Event

Host: Melissa Bendixen

Blurb: Join us for a evening of conversation with five local authors/translators, and moderated by former head of Audible audio interviews Melissa Bendixen, as they reflect on the paths that led them to a life in writing. Drawing on their varied experiences and journeys, the panel will explore questions of craft, perseverance, inspiration, rejection, community, and the publishing industry. All these milestone having contributed to their work, the authors will offer an honest and nuanced perspective on what it means to be a writer. 

The discussion will be followed by an audience Q&A, providing an opportunity to engage directly with the authors and learn more about them, followed by a networking break in a welcoming environment surrounded by books. 

Whether you are an aspiring writer, a dedicated reader or simply a curious person who breathes books, this event will offer an unique experience in the local community. 

Host: Ellene Glenn Moore

This three-hour writing workshop offers a focused space for exploration, experimentation, and the development of the writing craft. Hosted by PhD in Creative Writing and MFA in Poetry Ellene Glenn Moore, the workshop is open to writers working in any genre, as it is designed around a series of carefully structured prompts and exercises that invite participants to engage more deeply with their writing. Exploring fundamental elements of writing, the workshop resonates across literary fiction, genre fiction, memoir, and poetry. Participants are encouraged to approach familiar subjects from unexpected angles, challenge habitual patters, and discover new possibilities. 

Writers of all proficiencies are welcome, whether they are beginning a new project, seeking fresh perspectives or simply wish to dedicate some time to sustaining their creative practice. Therefore, Writing Workshop ticket holders are additionally invited to join any of the other two Writing Sessions and continue leveraging the inspiration from the Workshop. 

The workshop will include periods of writing, reflection, and optional discussion in a supportive and intellectually engaged environment. Participants should bring a notebook or laptop..

All participants are invited to the Closing Event: a Reading Session on Sunday, 20 Sept 14-17h.

Host: Jo Bahdo 

Hosted by published poet Jo Bahdo, the Writing Sessions welcome anyone from the creative writing community of Zurich, including all genres and experience levels. Whether you’re working on fiction, poetry, essays, journaling, or simply looking to build a regular writing practice, this is a relaxed and inspiring space to write, share ideas, and connect with fellow writers. The sessions will be held in English, but participants are welcome to write in any language. Bring your notebook, laptop, or work-in-progress — and spend an evening writing alongside others in the cozy atmosphere of Vastela Books.

Host: Jo Bahdo 

Hosted by published poet Jo Bahdo, the Writing Sessions welcome anyone from the creative writing community of Zurich, including all genres and experience levels. Whether you’re working on fiction, poetry, essays, journaling, or simply looking to build a regular writing practice, this is a relaxed and inspiring space to write, share ideas, and connect with fellow writers. The sessions will be held in English, but participants are welcome to write in any language. Bring your notebook, laptop, or work-in-progress — and spend an evening writing alongside others in the cozy atmosphere of Vastela Books.