About
Write. Chat. Connect.
“Get creative and health, by writing yourself...”
In the heart of Saltdean Library; just past the stories, in the hush of thoughts; meet a sanctuary for writing, with Malcolm. Whether you’ve decades of pages, a barely-used notebook or have a whisper of a notion, you’d like to put in to motion.
You are welcome at Pen Zen Writing Club.
What is it?
It’s a free, drop-in recreational writing circle where engaging prompts and guided reflections help show what’s waiting inside you. From micro-memoirs to poetic fun, we explore creative expression in a space that’s light-hearted, expressive and quietly powerful...
Why come?
Come to:
- enjoy writing playfully; no pressure, no grades, just leave with pages full of your spirit
- share stories, laughter and insights in good company
- build ability, craft and creative habits that nourish
Who’s it for?
Open to adults (18+), if you can read your own handwriting and have a good chat about it, you’re able to take part in this workshop, come along and have some fun while joining in.
When and where?
Sundays, 3pm to 4.30pm-ish at Saltdean Library.
Just bring a pen, pad, a drink and yourself.
For more information send an email to PenZenWritingClub@proton.me - Malcolm BSc(Hons), PTTLLS, Workshop facilitator.
Testimonials from the Pen Zen Writing Club workshop
"There's a great writing club I've discovered. It took me to places I hadn't imagined I could go. Even if you think you lack imagination and an ability to put words to paper you'll discover you can venture into the world of writing at this club.
To begin with everyone is put at ease and there's time for people to get to know each other. What I like is the leader asking us about anything that crops up and seeing where that leads to. And it invariably leads to something most of us would not have thought about and this creates the stimulus for our first attempt to write about it. I like the spontaneity, laughter and conviviality of the group which enlivens us all to write in a way we wouldn't otherwise do".
Wayne
"The first point to note is that a truly creative writing group is prompted, not taught. It is your creativity, your priorities and your distinctive writing 'voice' that is being encouraged.
Don't know what that is?
Don't worry: this group will enable you to find it! It exercises your writing muscles, a little more and a little more each session, helping you build up your strength (the capacity for finding words at the drop of a hat, a snap of the finger or the receipt of a verbal prompt).
It improves your stamina – both in thinking and in sustaining a thought, a train of thought or a theme – way beyond what you think you'll manage. And it improves your suppleness, through quick changes of mood and subject, plus listening back to the other group members' ideas and finished writing.
As with all good exercise classes, it's also supportive – mutually supportive – and appreciative rather than judgmental. When this well-led, a writing group is a fun and life-affirming space."
Kate
“Come and join a fun writing group. Everyone that has the ability to read and write can join in. All you need is a pen, paper and an imagination, which we all have. If I was to say to you imagine a daisy, immediately you will all have a mental picture of a daisy, that is all the imagination you need.
With having several different people of differing ages and backgrounds makes for some very interesting stories and conversations. When we start Malcolm gives us a theme and then it’s down to you and your imagination.
Come and join and have a laugh or sometimes if we touch on a personal journey, maybe a tear or two. Though this hasn’t happened in my time yet.”
Jackie
Who
Dates and times
Location
- Saltdean Lido, Saltdean, BN2 8SP
How to book
No booking is required, drop in.
You will need your own Libraries Extra card to gain entry.