What to Expect
What is the purpose of the retreat?
The retreat is intended to give writers a glimpse into Hemingway’s life in Paris, while trying out some of his writing techniques. The retreat is not structured for writers to work on projects that they are working on. It is meant to create new ideas, learn new methods, inspire, motivate, develop a practice and see new sights in Paris.
What should I expect from the retreat’s writing experience?
The retreat offers writers a chance to write in the most beautiful city in the world and to walk in Hemingway’s footsteps. It is not a workshopping retreat; however, each day we work on a writing exercise and share with the group. All writers are encouraged to participate.
Who should attend?
Writers of poetry, fiction, nonfiction, memoir, drama or simply whatever moves you at the moment. Any project you are working on will benefit from the writing techniques of Left Bank Writers like Stein, Hemingway and Fitzgerald and the inspiration of one of the world’s most beautiful cities.
Do I need to be an experienced writer?
All writers from beginners to professionals will benefit from this retreat.
What is the format of the retreat?
Each morning our group will work on writing projects, and we’ll spend afternoons exploring the city’s museums, parks, cafes and little-known literary haunts.
How will we get around the city?
The retreat is primarily a walking tour. The area from the Île Saint-Louis to the Luxembourg Gardens is our territory and each day we walk approximately 3.5 miles. The marvelous thing about Paris is that the parks and museums we want to see are all centrally located, most within walking distance from the Île Saint-Louis. We will take the Metro to reach some museums that are farther away, and writers are welcome to arrange a ride through one of the ride services to take them to our writing space each morning if they don’t feel like walking.
What makes the small-group experience special?
Camaraderie – writers who have attended the retreat have made new friends for life. The shared experience of writing in the City of Light, immersing yourself in the history of 1920s Paris and its literary scene can be a life-changing experience according to some of the writers who have attended in the past.
What is included in my registration fee?
Your registration fee includes morning workshops, a fabulous lunch each day, snacks, museum passes, literary tours, Seine boat ride and Metro tickets. (You’ll be responsible for your hotel accommodations, transportation to Paris and other meals.) The Hotel Saint-Louis en l’Isle offers moderate pricing and has been a favorite of Left Bank Writers.
How do I reserve a space?
A $500 deposit payable via check or Venmo, and a completed application form is required to reserve your space. Deposits are only refundable if the retreat is canceled, or in approved cases of illness or family emergency. Go to our REGISTER page to reserve your space.
Additional questions? Email info@leftbankwriters.com.
