Some of the nation’s literary finest discuss revision, editing, the bold undertaking of writing the body through trauma and desire, and all things writing in a 90-minute craft intensive. A poet, two novelists, a memoirist, offer a frank talk on craft and editing towards publication, a practical, layered approach to revision, the radical power of personal narrative, and writing as a form of freedom to write the story of our bodies. They will discuss the challenges of their own work, and stepping up the truth of their roles as writers, fear be damned. Any one of these authors could offer their own master class.

Panel will be followed from 8:00-8:30 PM (ET) by Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai in The Writer's Room, which debuted at the virtual 2021 CityLit Festival, is designed to engage participants face-to-face with authors in an informal conversation about the different aspects of writing, including questions about craft, research, writing process, challenges, and publication. Featured authors get a chance to wind down from being 'on' and simply engage with the writers assembled about all sorts of things. In the past, Emily St. John Mandel, Terrance Hayes, Nikky Finney, Jenny Offill, and Roxane Gay participated, and simply loved it. Roxane Gay was so taken by the diverse and inclusive writers assembled that - to our delight and surprise, she stayed for an hour. A hit with festival attendees!

The event is FREE and open to all. Registration is required. You will receive a Zoom link upon registration.

ASL interpretation will be available for attendees.

You can order the authors' books from The Ivy Bookshop.

19th Annual CityLit Festival Partners:

Media Sponsor: BMoreArt Magazine

Enoch Pratt Free Library | Maryland Centers for Creative Classrooms | Arts Education in Maryland Schools

Maryland Humanities | Greater Baltimore Cultural Alliance | Motor House | Busboys and Poets -Baltimore

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