Young Writers Creative Writing Seminar

The Young Writers Creative Writing Seminar is a nurturing ground for blossoming talent–a space where imagination meets the practice of craft. Gabriel Sebastian, Editor-in-chief of confetti, recently led one of these seminars with a group of teens at the Somers Library.

Picture a room, with large windows letting in natural light, walls adorned with quotes from literary giants, and a circle of chairs around a large wooden table. This is not just a dusty backroom in a small-town library or merely a classroom; it’s a place for storytelling, a place where young writers come together to explore the depth of their creative abilities.

The seminar begins with introductions, not just of names, but of favorite books, and the stories each student is itching to tell. It’s a moment of recognition–everyone is here because they believe in the power of words–they want to tell their stories. The instructor, a seasoned writer and educator passionate about cultivating the next generation of authors, sets the tone for openness and curiosity. They will share their journey, underscoring the importance of understanding the craft of writing and connecting with an audience.

A key component of the seminar is the emphasis on reading as much as writing. Participants begin by sharing their experiences with a wide range of texts, from classic literature to contemporary works, read for pleasure or read for school. Sebastian points out to write well, one must read widely–warning also of the influence reading can have on writing. Discussions on these readings illuminate various writing techniques and styles and genres culminating in a writing exercise encouraging young writers to experiment with their literary voices through the mimicry of style.

Each session has been meticulously planned to cover the essentials of creative writing—from the anatomy of a compelling plot to the nuances of character development, from the rhythm of dialogue to the artistry of setting. They discussed “show don’t tell” and Vonnegut’s 8 Rules for Writing. Yet, it’s the hands-on activities pulsing at the heart of the seminar. With these activities, young writers are encouraged to dive headfirst into writing exercises, prompts that challenge and stretch their imaginations. They piece together cut-up lines to create Frankensteinian tales, write exquisite corpse vignettes and passed-around stories, and do mock interviews with characters they’ve made up for their stories.

As the seminar draws to a close, there’s a tangible sense of accomplishment and anticipation. Participants, now more than acquaintances, will share their final pieces in a celebratory reading at the library. It’s a testament to their growth, not just in skill but in confidence. The seminar may have ended, but for these young writers, it’s just the beginning of a journey into the world of storytelling. They leave armed with knowledge, bolstered by the support of their peers, and most importantly, with the belief their stories matter.

Listed below are the links to three of our young writers’ stories, featured here so you too may share in their journey.

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