The Willamette Writers Coast Chapter invites coastal writers and authors to join us on Saturday, June 17th from 2 pm to 3:30 pm for an in-person-only meeting at the Newport Public Library for an Open Mic program highlighting personal work. Each writer will have five minutes to present a work of their choice. Please note five minutes is the maximum time so everyone gets a chance to read.

Why an open mic? From the ritual of reading bedtime stories to children to listening to audiobooks while we exercise or walk, we all sense that words read aloud bring them to life. The art of putting words on paper is only a first step for writers and authors. Regardless of the genre, authors hope that writing calls out to its readers, grabs their attention, and entices them to join in the storytelling.

Words should sing, not just on the page, but as we speak them aloud. Hearing and sharing of writing bring a fresh perspective, creating new space between the writer and the written word.  And, since writing is a solitary effort, reading work aloud is a celebration of the craft and work, and honors the efforts of fellow writers.

We hope to see this event filled with coast writers eager to share their work and tell their stories with their own author’s voice.

In addition to the Open Mic, there will be a brief brainstorming session on programming for next year starting September 2023.

This program is co-hosted by the Newport Public Library

About your chapter meetings

Willamette Writers meetings are open to all writers, 18 and up. Guests are welcome to make a donation to help support the cost of the meeting (we believe in paying our speakers for their time and skills). This meeting is run by volunteers. We look forward to seeing you there!

Young writers are encouraged to join our Young Willamette Writers meetings. Sign Up! Any high school or middle-grade writers are welcome to join us. Sign up for our email list at: http://eepurl.com/hRubBf  A registration link will be sent to our email list before our next meeting.

MASKING: MASKING: Willamette Writers continues to encourage mask-wearing at our in-person, indoor meetings. We also invite you to join us at one of our online Chapter Meetings.