Kathy Garlick

Jane had a unique vision when she developed the Round Robin class. By combining several elements—partnering, repetition, practice, feedback, and dedication—she created not just a writing course, but an actual community, one that has continued and grown for over a decade.

This shorter version of Round Robin with a run time of three weeks is built as a preparatory class for the traditional eight-week version of the class or as an alternative course that requires a shorter commitment. Like the traditional eight-week version of the class, the June Round Robin is structured around a carefully facilitated exchange of daily emailed writings based on prompts provided by the facilitator and the participants.

Round Robin'ers aim to do four things:

1) Write regularly.

2) Enjoy and explore the process of writing freely and playfully.

3) "Partner" on a rotating basis with classmates.

4) Provide positive feedback in order to encourage one another and create community.

We might cover some basic elements of craft in our daily exchanges, but the main focus will be on finding the inspiration, motivation, and self-discipline to keep writing and generating raw material that you may eventually choose to rewrite, revise, polish, and publish. It will also be about learning to recognize and appreciate the strength of your natural voice, before you have a chance to snuff it out by revising your work too hastily.

Writers in all genres and at all levels of experience take this class. Beginners use it to get started.  Seasoned writers participate in order to stave off writer's block and to produce new material.  Many participants return session after session in order to keep their writing practice going.

NOTE: Every student must commit to full participation on a daily basis. Time required: 20 to 30 minutes each day, on average. If you are unable to honor your daily commitment to your writing partners, you cannot continue in the class. (Substitutes are available on a limited basis in case of an emergency.)