Memoir Writing

Join Plume, SW London's queer writing collective, for a night of playful writing exercises, storytelling, poetry and good vibes! Come hang out with Plume, a new regular queer writing collective based in SW London! This in-person event (1st and 3rd Monday of each month) is all about sharing, creating, and celebrating queer voices through the art of writing. Whether you’re into poetry, prose, or just love a good story, there’s a spot for you here. Bring your vibes, your words, and get ready to connect with a community of writers in a safe and welcoming space . See you there!

Share and discuss your work on Monday 1st June (5:30pm to 6:50pm) with a small, friendly and constructive creative writing group. Meeting at Mayfair library, we cover all forms of writing (from novels to poetry, short-stories to plays), and support a wide range of standards.

WELCOME! We’re a supportive community, and I’m here to organise this Meetup space. I’m looking foreword to seeing it grow and become a regular place for people to get-together. I also invite likemindeded people with shared interests from society. I hope this develops into a fully fledged, shared, literacy lounging experience. INTRODUCTION Join us for some focused coworking writing or reading time. All experience levels are welcome and don’t worry, no one will see what you've written. This session is about getting your writing and reading done and meeting other literacy enthusiasts in the area. EARLY ARRIVALS around 6:30pm When you show up, the group will be located in the large room next to the fireplace. Take a seat and settle in and spend some time to chat with your fellow writers before the start of the session if you like. START OF SESSION around 6:45pm I’ll set timers for our no-talking and focused writing sessions (write, break, write, end). END OF SESSION around 8:30pm Afterward, there’s time to hang out, and many people stay for over an hour. Perhaps to chat and get to know each other. Everyone tends to talk about their successes and challenges as writers/readers or similar interesting topics. If we don’t have time to stick around, no worries! We’re here every week anyway!! FORMAT A note about the format: We don’t host critiques or readings. These events are a safe space for writers andd readers of all skill levels and genres to work on their craft. VENUE Sandwiched lovingly between Crouch Hill and Stroud Green, the Stapleton Tavern is a warm, welcoming, quirky pub fit for a vibrant community. home to a truly bizarre collection of ornaments, they serve a wide variety of tasty food and drink from all over the world. LOCATION & TRAVEL Located in the junction of Stroud Green Road and Stapleton hall, 10 minutes walk from the Finsbury Park Underground station and 2 minutes from Crouch Hill station on the Suffragette line. INTERNET Name: Stapleton Guest Password: StapletonTavern For our full event schedule\, visit \[https://shutupwrite\.com\]\(https://shutupwrite\.com\)

**The Talbot Room at the George Inn** The George provides the room free of charge (they are awesome), and we encourage you to purchase drinks (and food – the burgers are great!). As it’s a pub and not a picnic area, please don’t consume your own food and drink there. We usually meet in the Talbot room which is on the top floor on the left hand side of the pub as viewed from the courtyard. If lost please send a message here shortly before the meeting starts. **We are sorry to say that there is no step-free access to the Talbot room, and it is at the end of three flights of stairs.** **Format** We start at 7pm and run until 9pm. We hear approximately six readings of 10 minutes (\~2000 words), then discuss the piece for 10 minutes. Email your work to: london60transmitter@emailitin.com as an attachment (It must be an attachment). A link for access to googledocs will be given at the start of each session to enable people to read along, which in turn enables more considered feedback. Work submitted will be automatically deleted after 10 days. We decide on readers/pieces at the beginning of each session. **Safe and respectful space** The group is run by volunteers, and we don’t have the capacity to read submitted work in advance. If there is anything in your work that might distress or disturb some readers, for example concerning any kind of abuse, please give a trigger warning before you read. Be specific and concise. If it becomes apparent during a reading that a piece is inappropriate, the moderator will stop the reading. In discussing others’ work, please be mindful of how you express yourself and do not use discriminatory language, even if such language features in the piece.

We often think of acting as something that happens on stage — but what if performance is part of everyday life? What if, in some sense, we are always performing? This session explores the idea that while acting may be occasional, performance could be constant, raising questions about the roles we play, how they shape our sense of self, and the rituals that may help us process emotion and experience a sense of catharsis. From the roles we take on at work and in relationships, to the rituals that shape moments like weddings, funerals, and public events, much of what we do follows shared scripts and expectations. But does this mean we are simply playing roles — or is there something more to the self beneath them? How aware are we of the roles we inhabit — and what difference, if any, is there between acting and everyday performance? The idea for this evening’s event comes from the following discussion. You might like to listen to it in advance — it may give you a bit more to reflect on going into the conversation: [https://iai.tv/video/the-philosophy-of-performance-michelle-terry](https://iai.tv/video/the-philosophy-of-performance-michelle-terry) The session will begin with a short introduction (around 10 minutes) to set out the key ideas. After that, the emphasis is on discussion and participation. The aim is to create a space where ideas can be explored together, with time for questions, reflection, and open conversation. No prior knowledge is needed — just curiosity and a willingness to think together. **Where:** Downstairs room, Square Pig, Holborn (private room) **NB:** The event begins at 7pm, doors open at 6:50pm. Event ends at 9pm **Format:** 10-minute intro talk → vote on questions → small-group discussions → share insights with the whole room **Discounts:** If cost is a barrier, we want to make the session as accessible as possible. If you are a student, unemployed, or on a low income, please feel free to send me a direct message to get a reduced-price place. **Refunds:** If you are unable to attend and would like a refund, please send me a direct message at least 48 hours before the event. Unfortunately, I’m not able to offer refunds for cancellations made after this point, as it becomes difficult to reallocate places at short notice.

SAFO Music Group hosts monthly Networking Evenings on the first Monday of every month. This is an amazing opportunity for artists and music industry professionals to build their network of contacts as well as learn invaluable industry advice. SAFO Music Group HQ is based in Crouch Hill, London and our team have worked with the likes of Sam Smith, Pixie Lott, The 1975, Becky Hill, Samantha Harvey, Ella Eyre and many more. Our meet up groups run from 18:00 - 21:00 and entry is completely free. Part of the evening includes speed listening sessions where artists and producers will have the opportunity to play one song (USB, Phone or Weblinks) to gain some valuable feedback. Do check out our video so you get a little taste of the evening: https://youtu.be/1CzfgY78CXQ We'll look forward to meeting you soon! The SAFO Music Group www.safomusicgroup.com 0207 683 3333

**A space for exploring creative writing as practice and journaling for self reflection. There will the support of the group, suggested exercises, methods and forms. Space to share your words, space to choose not to. Share your struggles and surprises with your creativity. A space in your week to connect, drop deeper and breathe some life into some familiar and strange ideas.** **Writing can be a practice of journaling to get your thoughts and feelings onto the page and have some distance and perspective. There can be a sense of finding out something new through writing that brings up unexpected thoughts, stories and emotions. This can be a therapy of taking more care of yourself, mind and heart.** **Writing slows our words down, and gives us time to taste, observe and pay attention to the flow and receiving of words and language. Did I really say that? And who said that? Can be revealing questions and open new ways of being yourself with others. We can also be with our choices to share, not to share, exploring privacy and secrets in our communications. Our words often reveal what we are not able or willing to say and so we may ask ourselves, how is this true? And stay interested in the gaps, pauses and shadows of our descriptions.** I will be writing a case study on this group, I will anonymise everyone and anything that could identify the members of the group.

Join us at the top of the biggest bookshop in Europe to work in company on your own writing, be it a book, blog, screenplay, dissertation, poem, song, coursework, memoir, play, journal, travel writing, work stuff or anything else. Newcomers always welcome. No one will see what you're writing or give you unsolicited advice. Now that our regular Saturday events are filling all the seats we're adding some Sundays when we're able to - check Meetup for dates. Same format but an hour later. WHERE? FIFTH FLOOR CAFÉ, Floor 5, Waterstones, 203-206 Piccadilly, W1J 9LE TIMINGS:- 12.00 - Shop and café open 12:30 - Host will be there. Say hello, especially if you’re new. 12.40 - Brief introductions from everybody - your name and what you’re working on 12:45 - Timer starts: write for 45 minutes 13:30 – Break, chat to your neighbours if you like 13:45 - Timer starts: write for 45 minutes 14:30 - The End…feel free to stay and keep writing or chat some more. Bring whatever you need to be able to write. It’s a café, there’s some noise so earbuds/headphones/earplugs are handy. There’s very few mains sockets so charged-up laptops are a good idea too. And please remember everybody, thank our venue by buying a drink or food, and don’t consume anything from outside while you're here. We’re looking forward to writing with you, your hosts, Sarah, Nick, Laura, Anna, Solitaire and John

**We will be at The Mitre pub in central Greenwich.** This meetup is free and casual. We just sit around for a few hours and write together. Bring a laptop, or use a pen and paper or clay tablet and stylus if that's what works for you. The structure of the session is roughly: 2pm: chat 2:20–3:25: writing time 3:25: chat/coffee break 3:40–4:45 writing time 4:45: chat But our Saturdays are very casual, so feel free to drop in and out. **This is usually in the meeting room at the Mitre. If you arrive a bit later, you may need to ask the bar staff to show you through to the room.**

A chance just to work in company on your writing, be it a book, blog, screenplay, dissertation, poem, song, coursework, memoir, play, journal, travel writing or work stuff. Newcomers always welcome. No one will see what you're writing or give you unsolicited advice. WE FILL THE ROOM, so you MUST SIGN UP below AND ARRIVE BY 11.40 at the latest, or we can’t guarantee you a seat. And if you can't make it CHANGE YOUR RSVP to "not going" ASAP to give someone else a chance, thanks. WHERE? FIFTH FLOOR CAFÉ, Floor 5, Waterstones, 203-206 Piccadilly, W1J 9LE TIMINGS:- 11.00 - Café starts serving 11:30 - Host of the day will be there. Say hello, especially if you’re new. 11.40 - Brief introductions for everybody - your name and what you’re working on 11:45 - Timer starts: write for 45 minutes 12:30 – Break, chat to your neighbours if you like 12:45 - Timer starts: write for 45 minutes 13:30 - The End…feel free to stay and keep writing or chat some more. Bring whatever you need to be able to write. It’s a café, there’s some noise so earbuds/headphones/earplugs are handy. There’s very few mains sockets so charged-up laptops are a good idea too. And please remember everybody, thank our venue by buying a drink or food, and don’t consume anything from outside while you're here. IF YOU ARRIVE AFTER 11.45 - everyone will be quiet and writing. If there's no spare places then there's sofas on the sales floors below as well as one cafe at the back of the ground floor and another in the basement. The hosts won't have any other alternatives to offer you. Please feel free to join us for the break and afterwards. We’re looking forward to writing with you, your hosts, Sarah, Nick, Laura and Anna

We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator. Join us on Saturday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking! • What we'll do Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 10AM on Saturday mornings. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. SCHEDULE: 10:00 - SESSION 1: quick intros. 10:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour. 11:10 - chat / take off / keep writing. OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 11A-11:30ish. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. (I’ll be the person with the Shut Up & Write! sign.) If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you! • What to bring Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible. See you at The Café on Saturday!

Greetings writers! Come down and join your fellow wordsmiths for one hour of uninterrupted writing time in the upper level of the Market District Supermarket in Upper Arlington. The main entrance of the shopping center opens onto stairs/elevator leading up to the 2nd floor cafe section where we will have a table displaying a sign with the Shut Up & Write logo. Writing is largely a solitary craft. Practicing with others in a community setting may be the thing you need to fire your own routine. We’ll meet on Wednesday evenings, starting the clock at 6:30, following a brief period of introductions. This is solid writing time and all inclusive. Any project is acceptable, be it fiction, non -fiction, work or homework assignment. All is welcome and will remain private to you. The market boasts a Starbucks, a full service bar and various affordable food options. Parking is plentiful, free Wifi is provided as well as outlets for charging your devices, though they are somewhat limited, so plan accordingly. Show up as early as you like, or stay late. This group tends to socialize some, both before and after the alloted time, but this is not mandatory to you. Feel free to come and go as you please and late arrivals are welcome. The cafe may be noisy on occasion so headphones/ earbuds are reccommended as you see fit. Please try to RSVP if possible so that we may grab enough seats for all—the venue can be busy at times. Feel free to message me privately wth any questions and/ or concerns you may have. Happy writing!

Let’s meet and share discussion of the James Baldwin short story collection, Going to Meet The Man.

Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 7:00pm on Wednesday, February 11 at Streetlight Guild. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. **SCHEDULE:** 6:45ish - Quick introductions 7:00 - Timer starts: write for 1 hour 8:00 - The End **OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING** happens before and after the writing hour. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. **BEING LATE IS OKAY:** just show up and get settled! If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing & I look forward to seeing you at Streetlight Guild! **WHAT SHOULD I BRING?** Whatever you need to be able to write! You're welcome to bring earplugs/headphones if noise will bother you! **OTHER IMPORTANT DETAILS:** * **RSVP:** Please RSVP by 6:00pm the evening of the meeting. This helps me know how many to expect, and if we'll need additional space! * **COVID:** While masks are not required, please be mindful of the other writers around you and their comfort levels. * **WIFI/OUTLETS:** Outlets are limited, so please ensure your devices are charged when you come! But Streetlight Guild does have free WiFi! Yay! * **PARKING:** There is free public parking at Streetlight Guild.

The topic for June is "Roadtrip" Speak Easy: true stories, told live. The idea is simple: an audience, an open microphone, and great stories. Hilarious, gripping, poignant- it's up to you. Audiences are invited to come to listen or come to tell as folks from all corners of Columbus offer their stories live on stage! Held at Wild Goose Creative's warm, intimate space, this night of tales occurs on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Doors open at 6:30 pm, show starts at 7:00 pm. Please arrive early if you want to tell, as we generally only have room for a limited number of tellers, and the sign-up sheet has a tendency to fill up fast. Formed around the idea that people need stories--they're what hold and draw us together--SpeakEasy celebrates the strangeness and commonness of being human. And in a world of smartphones, Facebook, Twitter, and more . . . it gives people a real, breathing, in-person way to connect. The night is geared for true stories of all kinds, taking the best tales told around kitchen tables, in darkened pubs, on the street corner, and at late-night parties and giving them an audience. Speak Easy is also a great outlet for performers, writers, and artists looking to share their favorite stories and perfect their skills. We strongly encourage tellers to please tell the story rather than read it so we keep within the spirit of good storytelling and stay engaged with the audience. All are welcome. Hang around after the show for a drink and build community!

[Columbus library link to book](https://cml.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S105C3351321) Location: The Goat River South 219 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215 Street parking is free on Sundays [Menu](https://static1.squarespace.com/static/686d3ed16745133042482c5f/t/68ff654dbb03b96875430bde/1761568077220/all_brunch-20250311.pdf) Book summary: On a hot day in Bethlehem, a twelve-year-old Palestinian-American girl is yelled at by a group of men outside the Church of the Nativity. She has exposed her legs in a biblical city, an act they deem forbidden, and their judgement will echo on through her adolescence. When our narrator finally admits to her mother that she is queer, her mother's response only intensifies a sense of shame: 'You exist too much,' she tells her daughter. Told in vignettes that flash between the U.S. and the Middle East--from New York to Jordan, Lebanon, and Palestine--Zaina Arafat's debut novel traces her protagonist's progress from blushing teen to sought-after DJ and aspiring writer.