Write By Lake Atitlan

Write By Lake Atitlan
with Joyce Maynard
WINTER 2014 (dates TBA)
LAKE ATITLAN, GUATEMALA

This year marks the fifteenth Guatemalan workshop, with a time-tested format in a rare and magical location—the Mayan village of San Marcos La Laguna, surrounded by five volcanoes, on the shores of one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. (You’ll enjoy an additional overnight stay in the lovely town of Antigua prior to arriving at Lake Atitlan.) Joyce welcomes writers of all levels, from those publishing work or completing MFA’s to others just beginning to pursue writing.

We encourage every writer to attend as many sessions in your section as you would like, but remind you this is your workshop, so you are free to choose how you use your time. Students will submit a manuscript to be critiqued with the group by Joyce during an hour-long workshop session that will offer valuable learning not only for that writer but for all who participate. All the students will join together for craft talks, jumpstart writing prompts, lunches, dinners and evening readings.

Prepare yourself for a fantastic view and private room at Casa Del Mundo -- one of the most charming and sought out hotels around Lake Atitlan -- located in Jibalito, just a short boat ride away from the workshop space. Enjoy freshly prepared cooked breakfasts with great Guatemalan coffee, fresh eggs and cheese, local fruits and home baked bread and tortillas each morning at your hotel. Delicious lunches in Joyce’s garden are new this year and are included in the price. Use your three hour afternoon break time for a massage at the Holistic center, a dip in the lake, a hike up the mountain, or for working on the most recent directed writing exercise. Gather around the candle-lit table back at Casa Del Mundo in the evening for dinner, dessert, and student readings. And, of course, enjoy a final night’s party on Joyce’s grounds for a perfect ending to the workshop. Optional add-on stay available, if you’d like to extend your trip to write.

WBTL students and Joyce, March 2012. View a full slideshow here.

Photo: Jim Barringer