The Creative Writing Group has officially returned following a challenging winter hiatus marked by cancellations and personal setbacks. On Friday, April 17, writers of all levels gathered at the Creating Centre in Vankleek Hill for a workshop led by Florencia Lazcano that explored different creative writing voices.
Lazcano said she faced personal challenges over the winter months, compounded by repeated cancellations due to inclement weather that forced the workshops to be put on hold. The workshops’ return has rekindled a sense of community, with poetry and creative expression once again bringing participants together and renewed local interest helping to revive the group.
Participating in the workshops is free, with a pay-what-you-can option to support the Creating Centre’s programming. Sessions take place every Friday beginning at 5:30 p.m.
“Whether you’re just starting your first journal or you’re a seasoned storyteller with a finished manuscript, this space is for you,” Lazcano said. “We are a supportive community dedicated to helping everyone find their voice.”
Participants were introduced to a variety of creative writing voices throughout the workshop, encouraging them to experiment with different styles and perspectives. Those comfortable sharing their work received constructive feedback from the group.
The exercise asked writers to draft a short paragraph multiple times, each using a different character “mask” to shape their version of the story. The first prompt involved writing four to six sentences describing a moment when the writer finds an envelope under their car’s windshield wiper. Participants were then asked to rewrite the same scene through two contrasting lenses: a paranoid skeptic and a romantic dreamer.
Lazcano encourages interested individuals to attend Friday evening sessions by simply showing up or by reaching out to [email protected] to register.
