Primary reds, blues, and yellows scream out from every direction as I wander, daypack clutched to my chest to protect it from pickpockets, through the Oaxacan market. Known for textiles, pottery, and fanciful little creatures decorated with tiny dots of paint, Oaxaca’s artistry is world famous. I’m here, in one of my favorite cities in the world, for two reasons. The first is to plan the details for an upcoming trip with writers. I need to figure out where my writers will stay, what their writing assignments will be, where we will eat, and who will guide us on tours through the city.
I could have done all of this online, probably, but then I wouldn’t have fulfilled the second reason for my visit. I’m in desperate need of inspiration. Months of lockdown during the Covid-19 pandemic has left my senses dulled. My own four walls have closed in on me and my writerly powers of observation are out of practice. This place is alive with Mexican vibrancy, assailing my senses, reminding me the world is full of characters and plots longing to be apprehended and then expelled onto the page.
What a relief!
Writer, if you want to inspire the muse, take her to Oaxaca!
Lisa Dailey of Sidekick Press and I, along with literary agent Laura Mazer, are going to take NINE writers to Oaxaca in December. If you’d like to be one of those writers, join us for an info meeting on Thursday, August 5 at 6pm Pacific Time to find out:
- How travel is the BEST way to hone your writerly skills of observation
- How setting, character, plot, and theme can grow out of experiences of adventure
- What the publishing industry looks for in travel writing
- What our itinerary will be on the trip
- How the COVID situation is being handled in Oaxaca
- The answers to any other questions you may have about this Wayfaring Writers journey
Register in advance for this meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUscO6trT4pEtfzr9BZ6DFnk002tQ1jOn4f
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
I can’t wait to be writing with you soon!
Cami Ostman
TNP Chief Story Warrior
Sorry, I saw this somewhat belatedly.
I know Oaxaca well and speak Spanish fluently.
I am writing a memoir (growing up in Peru; professional work as anthropologist/archaeologist in Mexico); retiree working on textile-related projects when attending what before Covid were regular bi annual textile conferences in Oaxaca; most recently a collaborative project with a Mexican colleague regarding art objects beyond textiles. Would very much like to join in this discussion and planning.
What is the price for this trip?