Embodied Narratives – Seedlings with Anya Pearson: A Revolutionary 13-Week Writing Journey
Introduction: Reimagining the Writing Workshop
In a world where traditional writing workshops often uphold hierarchical structures and narrow definitions of literary excellence, Embodied Narratives – Seedlings emerges as a transformative alternative. Spearheaded by the dynamic Anya Pearson, this 13-week program is not just a course—it's a movement.
Anya Pearson
Anya Pearson (she/her/we) is a multifaceted artist whose work spans playwriting, poetry, screenwriting, acting, and activism. Her accolades include the Hodder Fellowship at Princeton University and numerous awards for her plays, such as The Measure of Innocence and Made to Dance in Burning Buildings. Beyond her artistic achievements, Pearson is a single mother and a passionate advocate for marginalized communities, bringing a deeply personal and intersectional perspective to her teaching.
Program Overview: What to Expect
Duration: 13 weeks
Start Date: May 11, 2025
Schedule: Wednesdays, 5:00–7:30 PM PST / 8:00–10:30 PM EST
Platform: Zoom
Optional Afterparty: 30-minute informal gathering post-session
The program kicks off with a week dedicated to introductions and co-working, fostering a sense of community from the outset. Over the following weeks, participants engage in four rounds where two individuals share seven pages of new material each week. This structure ensures that every participant receives focused attention and feedback, promoting consistent progress on their book-length works-in-progress.
A Decolonized, Anti-Racist Approach to Writing
At its core, Embodied Narratives – Seedlings is rooted in the principles of Ethnoautobiography, a methodology that emphasizes writing from one's own cultural and personal experiences. This approach challenges the often Eurocentric and patriarchal norms of traditional writing workshops, creating space for voices that have historically been marginalized.
The program's anti-MFA stance is not a rejection of formal education but a critique of its limitations. By fostering a collaborative and supportive environment, Seedlings encourages writers to explore their narratives authentically, without the constraints of conventional academic expectations.
Community-Centered Feedback: The 'Embers' Model
Affectionately termed "Embers," this feedback model reimagines critique as a nurturing and empowering process. Instead of focusing on what's "wrong" with a piece, participants offer "love notes"—constructive, compassionate insights that highlight strengths and suggest areas for growth. This approach fosters trust and vulnerability, essential components for deep creative work.
Access and Inclusivity: Prioritizing BIPOC Voices
Embodied Narratives – Seedlings is committed to amplifying underrepresented voices, particularly those of BIPOC individuals. The program prioritizes creating a safe and inclusive space where participants can explore their narratives without fear of judgment or marginalization. By centering these voices, the workshop not only diversifies the literary landscape but also enriches the collective storytelling experience.
Investment and Sliding Scale Pricing
Understanding the financial barriers that often prevent marginalized individuals from accessing quality writing programs, Seedlings offers a sliding scale pricing model:
$1,750: For individuals with financial stability, this tier supports both personal participation and subsidizes costs for others.
$1,500: For those with moderate financial means, balancing personal investment with community support.
$1,250: For individuals facing financial challenges, ensuring accessibility without compromising the program's quality.
This Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) pricing model reflects the program's commitment to economic inclusivity.
Application Process: Joining the Movement
Prospective participants are required to complete a short application, ensuring alignment with the program's ethos and goals. This process is designed to foster a cohesive and committed cohort, ready to embark on a transformative writing journey together.
Conclusion:
Embodied Narratives – Seedlings is more than a writing workshop; it's a radical reimagining of how we tell stories, who gets to tell them, and the spaces in which they're shared. Under Anya Pearson's guidance, participants will not only develop their manuscripts but also engage in a profound exploration of self, community, and the power of narrative.
For more information and to apply, visit We Are Urban Haiku.
FAQs
1. Who is this program for?
Seedlings is designed for writers working on book-length projects who seek a supportive, decolonized, and anti-racist workshop environment. While prioritizing BIPOC voices, the program welcomes all individuals committed to its core values.
2. Do I need to have a completed manuscript to join?
No. Participants should have a work-in-progress and be prepared to write and share new material throughout the 13-week program.
3. What is the time commitment outside of weekly sessions?
Participants are expected to write new material regularly and provide thoughtful feedback to peers. The exact time commitment varies but generally includes writing, reading, and engaging with the community.
4. Is financial assistance available?
Yes. The sliding scale pricing model is designed to accommodate various financial situations. Additionally, payment plans and work-exchange opportunities may be available upon request.
5. How is this program different from traditional MFA programs?
Seedlings offers a community-driven, non-hierarchical approach to writing workshops, emphasizing personal narratives and decolonized methodologies. Unlike traditional MFA programs, it focuses on inclusivity, accessibility, and the transformative power of storytelling.
