Douglas Anderson Writing Festival

Post date: 05-Mar-2012 05:08:43

Whoooo! Just got back from the Douglas Anderson Writing Festival at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville, Fl. It was, to say the least, completely awesome. I was able to participate in writing workshops given by Al Letson, a talented playwright, performance poet, and NPR radio host, Stan Lynch, the original drummer for Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, and Margaret Atwood, and amazing and world-renowned author, among many others. The day ran from 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM, so it was pretty exhausting, but it was definitely worth it.

Letson discussed some aspects of his craft and career and performed a few of his pieces, and I felt very fortunate to have been able to see that. Lynch gave a songwriting workshop where he worked with the audience to generate a song idea and write some possible first lines which was very cool to be a part of. I got his autograph for my dad who is in the hospital right now, so hopefully that will be cool for him, too. And Atwood gave a reading from several of her works and, as it turns out, she's completely hilarious. It was certainly an experience not to be missed.

The festival has gotten me excited about writing again, and not just video scripts or song lyrics. I do a bit of short-story and poetry writing, and I think I'm going to start exploring those avenues again. Of course, this won't get in the way of videos or music, it's just more fun with words. So, if you ever hear about a writing festival or workshop opportunity, I heartily recommend jumping at the chance if you can. The event tickets were only $35, so it's usually affordable enough for anyone who really wants to go. That said, it's time to get back to writing! Peace!