What Is Shut Up and Write?

Shut Up And Write meet-ups place the typically solitary activity of writing into a more social space. The idea is simple: a group of people get together and focus on their own writing, with short breaks to socialise – “No critiquing, exercises, lectures, ego, competition or feeling guilty.”

Originating in San Francisco, the idea has spread to other cities and continents and there are now SUAW groups in across the US, Canada, Australia, and more – there’s even an online meet-up and communities for those who can’t get to a group in person. It works for writers at all stages and in all genres – poets, academics, journal writers, novelists, bloggers, students, etc.

A new series of drop-in writing sessions is now under way Wednesdays, 6:00 to 8:00pm, at Historic Joy Kogawa House, 1450 West 64th Avenue.

Session leaders are novelist Cathleen With and poet Holly Flauto Salmon.

RSVP info@kogawahouse.com

Coffee, tea and wifi provided! BYO snacks to share.

Admission by donation ($5 each week). Or sign up as a member ($25 till the end of the year) and get in free!

Venue accessibility

Unfortunately, Historic Joy Kogawa House is not currently wheelchair accessible. For details and measurements, please see the accessibility page at http://www.kogawahouse.com.

 “The system works because you have made a private commitment to writing at this time, acted on that commitment by turning up, and used the mutual support of others to help you stay the distance. It’s a one-step program for the procrastinator in us all.”