Tragic or comic, mysterious or romantic, flashes of memory illuminate and define who we are. Though condensed, the micro-memoir is impactful, transforming the deeply personal into the universal. Like the best of stories, they can satisfy our desire for communion.

This five-part writing workshop, facilitated by writer and educator Ira Schaeffer, will open with reading and discussing published micro-memoirs, focusing both on content and craft. From there, we’ll try our hand at these little gems with in-class writing. Successive meetings will be devoted to workshopping our 300-500-word drafts. Expect your micro-memoirs to be closely read and to receive the kind of helpful feedback essential for revision and eventual publication.

Dates of the workshop series are Mondays from 6:00-7:30 PM on October 19 and 26 and November 2, 9, and 16. Participants are expected to attend all sessions.

Free and open to writers of all experience levels. Space is limited and registration is required. Register below or contact the library for assistance. Register once for all five sessions.

If you require an accommodation or service to fully participate, please contact access@cranstonlibrary.org at least 7 days prior to the event.

Ira Schaeffer is a long-time poet and resident of Rhode Island, who has been widely published in a variety of print and e-publications. A former CCRI English Professor, Ira continues to share his love of the written word by leading workshops in local libraries and centers for lifelong learning.