Learn Creative Writing in Portland

There is no wonder that there are many famous and accomplished writers from Portland. The city is inspiring; it is not only thriving with arts and culture, but also there are gorgeous natural settings, mountains, and lush green trees. It should come as no surprise that there are a variety of workshop, classes and retreats each year where you can learn creative writing.

There are a long list of famous writers and poets who come from Portland. Some of these notable authors include Jean M. Auel who wrote The Clan of the Dave Bears, poet Walt Curtis, Katherine Dunn author of Geek Love, Matt Groenig, creator of the Simpsons, sci fi writer Richard A Lovett and Chuck Palahniuk author of Fightclub. These people are just a few of the many famous writers who hail from Portland.

Portland also boasts one of the world’s most famous bookstores, called Powell’s books. In fact, this is the largest independently owned bookstore on the planet! Throughout the year, writers come from all over the globe to visit Powell’s. At any given week, you can visit Powell’s for a massive selection of books and also for book talks from some of the most acclaimed writers in the world. Many local authors also do book signings at Powell’s.

There are various organizations and writing classes in Portland where you can learn creative writing. A few of the best are listed below:

Willamette Writers

This is one of the largest organizations for writers in the whole country. Volunteers coordinate meetings, seminars and workshops throughout the year. If you are seeking to learn creative writing, Willamette Writers is a great place to start. The organization has chapters throughout Oregon in mid-Valley, Salem, Southern Oregon and even the Oregon Coast. Willamette Writers also has a special version for kids called Young Willamette Writers. Kids meet every month and read their works to one another. This is a fantastic way for young writers to get off to a productive start.

Portland Writers

Another organization that you will find in Portland is the website PortlandWriters.com, which is an ideal resource for anyone looking to learn Creative Writing. In this active group, people constantly post message and updates about book signings, publications, success stories, and upcoming creative writing classes in Portland. People also meet one another through this site and provide feedback to one another about their work.

Portland Women Writers

If you are female and looking to learn creative writing in the Portland area, check out Portland Women Writers. This organization offers workshops just for women. The idea is that when women get together without men, they can feel that they are in a safer environment where they can more freely express themselves. Portland Women Writers has one-day workshops, one-day events and weekend retreats.

Oregon Writers Colony

This organization has been helping writers for almost 30 years. Throughout the year, they offer conferences and workshops for people looking to learn creative writing in Portland. The Oregon Writers Colony also offers a writing retreat called The Colonyhouse, which is on the Oregon Coast.

Peter Mitchell is a writer living in Portland, Oregon.