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Writing Alone and with Others
For more than a quarter of a century, Pat Schneider has helped writers find and liberate their true voices. She has taught all kinds--the award winning, the struggling, and those who have been silenced by poverty and hardship. Her innovative methods have worked in classrooms from elementary to graduate level, in jail cells and public housing projects, in convents and seminaries, in youth at-risk programs, and with groups of the terminally ill.
Now, in Writing Alone and with Others , Schneider's acclaimed methods are available in a single, well-organized, and highly readable volume. The first part of the book guides the reader through the perils of the solitary writing life: fear, writer's block, and the bad habits of the internal critic. In the second section, Schneider describes the Amherst Writers and Artists workshop method, widely used across the U.S. and abroad. Chapters on fiction and poetry address matters of technique and point to further resources, while more than a hundred writing exercises offer specific ways to jumpstart the blocked and stretch the rut-stuck. Schneider's innovative teaching method will refresh the experienced writer and encourage the beginner. Her book is the essential owner's manual for the writer's voice.
Now, in Writing Alone and with Others , Schneider's acclaimed methods are available in a single, well-organized, and highly readable volume. The first part of the book guides the reader through the perils of the solitary writing life: fear, writer's block, and the bad habits of the internal critic. In the second section, Schneider describes the Amherst Writers and Artists workshop method, widely used across the U.S. and abroad. Chapters on fiction and poetry address matters of technique and point to further resources, while more than a hundred writing exercises offer specific ways to jumpstart the blocked and stretch the rut-stuck. Schneider's innovative teaching method will refresh the experienced writer and encourage the beginner. Her book is the essential owner's manual for the writer's voice.
390 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2003
127 people are currently reading
1700 people want to read
About the author
Pat Schneider
24 books67 followers(Please note that I do not use Goodreads actively: my blog posts here are updated automatically from my website. If you would like to get in touch with me, please visit www.patschneider.com. Thank you.)
I am a writer of poetry, plays, libretti and non-fiction, and I am the founder of Amherst Writers and Artists. For thirty-four years I have taught writing in Massachusetts and around the world.
My two best-known books are about writing, both from Oxford University Press. My new book, HOW THE LIGHT GETS IN: WRITING AS A SPIRITUAL PRACTICE, offers seventeen chapters that engage the connection between writing and spirituality, regardless of one’s religious tradition or one’s level of expertise in writing. Chapter one takes Einstein’s statement, “There is a spirit,” as inspiration, and the book then moves through chapters that explore what to do with one’s own tradition -- tradition in writing and tradition in religions – as well as “The Dark Night of the Soul,” “Forgiving,” “Being Forgiven,” “The Body,” “Freedom,” and ending with “Joy.” The Library Journal review from February, 2013 says this: “Her book will have wide appeal to both amateur and seasoned writers and spiritual seekers whether or not tied to any tradition. The book is also useful as a tool for growth through reflection and writing. Highly recommended.”
My earlier book, WRITING ALONE AND WITH OTHERS, offers guidance and help to the writer working alone, and in the second half details the Amherst Writers & Artists method of creative writing workshops and writing groups. It is used widely and internationally in classrooms and independent workshops as a method that develops the craft of writing without doing harm to one’s original voice. The method it describes is also widely used as a tool for the empowerment of under-served populations, in prisons, shelters, and with youth-at-risk.
I am a writer of poetry, plays, libretti and non-fiction, and I am the founder of Amherst Writers and Artists. For thirty-four years I have taught writing in Massachusetts and around the world.
My two best-known books are about writing, both from Oxford University Press. My new book, HOW THE LIGHT GETS IN: WRITING AS A SPIRITUAL PRACTICE, offers seventeen chapters that engage the connection between writing and spirituality, regardless of one’s religious tradition or one’s level of expertise in writing. Chapter one takes Einstein’s statement, “There is a spirit,” as inspiration, and the book then moves through chapters that explore what to do with one’s own tradition -- tradition in writing and tradition in religions – as well as “The Dark Night of the Soul,” “Forgiving,” “Being Forgiven,” “The Body,” “Freedom,” and ending with “Joy.” The Library Journal review from February, 2013 says this: “Her book will have wide appeal to both amateur and seasoned writers and spiritual seekers whether or not tied to any tradition. The book is also useful as a tool for growth through reflection and writing. Highly recommended.”
My earlier book, WRITING ALONE AND WITH OTHERS, offers guidance and help to the writer working alone, and in the second half details the Amherst Writers & Artists method of creative writing workshops and writing groups. It is used widely and internationally in classrooms and independent workshops as a method that develops the craft of writing without doing harm to one’s original voice. The method it describes is also widely used as a tool for the empowerment of under-served populations, in prisons, shelters, and with youth-at-risk.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
September 29, 2007
This book is organized according to its title: the first half describes methods to help and encourage the writer in his/her solitary practice, and the second half describes Schneider's method for working with writers in groups. Her belief is that a "writer is someone who writes," and the focus of this book is really on prodding and guiding her readers to do what they have to do to keep writing. Although her sympathetic tone sometimes made me cringe (words like safety and healing abound), Schneider made me want to put the book down and write.
Anyone who teaches, either in a school or in a private or community workshop, would learn a lot by considering her methods for working with groups, which she vivifies with lots of examples. This part was my favorite. (The part on working alone seemed to cover territory that other books, like Writing Down the Bones and Bird by Bird, do more effectively for me.) Also, there are a lot (more than a hundred) of really great, inventive exercises that prompt writing in many genres.
Schneider offers some useful attention to revision and publishing, yet this guidebook is really for writers and teachers who want to jumpstart and generate writing. (And thanks go to James Black for pointing out Writing Alone and with Others on goodreads.)
Anyone who teaches, either in a school or in a private or community workshop, would learn a lot by considering her methods for working with groups, which she vivifies with lots of examples. This part was my favorite. (The part on working alone seemed to cover territory that other books, like Writing Down the Bones and Bird by Bird, do more effectively for me.) Also, there are a lot (more than a hundred) of really great, inventive exercises that prompt writing in many genres.
Schneider offers some useful attention to revision and publishing, yet this guidebook is really for writers and teachers who want to jumpstart and generate writing. (And thanks go to James Black for pointing out Writing Alone and with Others on goodreads.)
September 11, 2008
This book is most useful for writers hoping to lead a workshop, particularly with underserved communities.
For writers writing alone -- the exercises are helpful, but they're embedded in a lot of description and are demonstrated with examples done by beginners. This is not a book for experienced writers to flip through in search of a quickie writing prompt.
Rather, it's a book that's intended for total beginners and experts looking to teach total beginners.
That being said, as a non-beginner, I got a lot of value out of reading this book. Previously, I hadn't give much thought to writing in my "original voice" -- the voice of my family and where I'm from. I just did it, naturally, when writing poems. Thanks to this book, I'm now thinking consciously about how to incorporate this voice into my other writing -- fiction, screenplays. It's spurred me into a lot of valuable journaling that I think will turn into some good work.
For writers writing alone -- the exercises are helpful, but they're embedded in a lot of description and are demonstrated with examples done by beginners. This is not a book for experienced writers to flip through in search of a quickie writing prompt.
Rather, it's a book that's intended for total beginners and experts looking to teach total beginners.
That being said, as a non-beginner, I got a lot of value out of reading this book. Previously, I hadn't give much thought to writing in my "original voice" -- the voice of my family and where I'm from. I just did it, naturally, when writing poems. Thanks to this book, I'm now thinking consciously about how to incorporate this voice into my other writing -- fiction, screenplays. It's spurred me into a lot of valuable journaling that I think will turn into some good work.
August 12, 2016
Pat Schneider's WRITING ALONE AND WITH OTHERS is familiar fare to warriors of the "How to Write" wars. Part One "The Writer Alone" is sound and helps buck you up, so to speak. I page-by-paged my way through. Part Two "Writing with Others" is geared more to participants or moderators of workshops (such as Pat Schneider herself). In this section I found myself skipping pages. Does not apply. Does not apply. Etc.
The last part is "additional exercises" to supplement the many provided throughout the book. Lots of familiar ideas and some new.
Overall, nothing glitzy, but a steady-wins-the-race Bible of sorts. I'd recommend especially if you're going to workshop as a verb, be it as participant or fearless leader.
The last part is "additional exercises" to supplement the many provided throughout the book. Lots of familiar ideas and some new.
Overall, nothing glitzy, but a steady-wins-the-race Bible of sorts. I'd recommend especially if you're going to workshop as a verb, be it as participant or fearless leader.
Read
December 1, 2009If you love writing in a group or alone this is a book for you. I studied with the author in her home and have been leading writing groups ever since. Engaging and encouraging of both the person and a writing life.
July 10, 2017
Read for work.
May 27, 2016
This book is getting five stars based solely on the amount of times I had to stop reading this book so I could write (6 times). And I don't mean write for my own works in progress or homework, I mean write for the pure pleasure of it.
Pat Schneider made me start keeping a journal again (let's hope it lasts this time) and she also made me write a few poems and songs which I have always sworn I am incapable of. True, I still don't feel adequate in this area (and you can be sure I don't want people to read those poems and songs), but she encouraged me to go outside my comfort zone and more importantly, made me believe (if only temporarily) that those places were my comfort zones--I just didn't know it yet.
The writing exercises were also quite interesting and I plan to utilize them in the future if I ever need a quick jumpstart into a short story or if I was to ever start a writing group of my own.
Pat Schneider made me start keeping a journal again (let's hope it lasts this time) and she also made me write a few poems and songs which I have always sworn I am incapable of. True, I still don't feel adequate in this area (and you can be sure I don't want people to read those poems and songs), but she encouraged me to go outside my comfort zone and more importantly, made me believe (if only temporarily) that those places were my comfort zones--I just didn't know it yet.
The writing exercises were also quite interesting and I plan to utilize them in the future if I ever need a quick jumpstart into a short story or if I was to ever start a writing group of my own.
June 27, 2007
Used this book in a course I teach on peer education theory and practice. Schneider's assertion that anyone can write made some students uncomfortable. They missed the point that a writer must develop the ability; Schneider's goal is to help writers get out of their own way.
A companion DVD (same title) is available that includes interviews and some mini-documentaries about Schneider's work with a writing group in MA; the members are women who live in low-income housing.
A companion DVD (same title) is available that includes interviews and some mini-documentaries about Schneider's work with a writing group in MA; the members are women who live in low-income housing.
October 19, 2020
Normally I stay away from books like this, but this was incredibly helpful and had a wonderful philosophy: everyone is a writer. Some parts were old-fashioned/out of date (technology and the way things work now just aren't the same anymore) and some parts could've been more concise. But the message is still relevant. The guiding principles in this book will help anyone who writes, regardless of experience or skill level and regardless of if you write alone or in a workshop.
October 19, 2008
This was one of the very first books I read about writing. Back when I didn't know enough to appreciate it. I reread it in 2008 and now it's one of my favorite sources for teaching and for writing exercises.
August 8, 2010
This book changed my life. I read it in March after getting back from March. It brought tears to my eyes because its advice was so kind and nurturing and encouraging. Definitely one of my favorite self-help books of all time.
January 31, 2011
Although I'm not actually finished with this book, I'm through about 1/2 of it and can give it four stars without hesitation. It will definitely be one of those books I pick up again and again. A great writing resource and companion.
July 26, 2012
Currently re-reading this excellent book in preparation for my writers retreat this weekend. Pat Schneider is the lonely writer's voice of comfort and reason.
November 1, 2015
I love this book.
Although I agree with other reviewers that it is at best a guide to writers who want to learn how to be gentle, professional workshop leaders of writing groups, I feel all writers who read other authors writings in workshops would benefit from her wise experience. I have had the benefit of her guidance in many workshops without having known the origin of the culture of manners that I experienced. I wish that her ideas had already influenced the teaching of creative writing in high school--no luck there. But all of the classes and workshops that I have attended as an adult have been in agreement with Pat Schneider's philosophy.
Recently, I attended a workshop in France with Cary Tennis, who has been trained in the Amherst Writers' Workshop Method, and I loved the results, both in my writing as well as in the texture and experience of the workshop itself. In fact, I will be attending a training in the AWA method this month!
I recommend that all writers (beginning or not; blocked or not) try out the exercises in this book. I have found them to lead to very interesting results in my writing.
Although there are many other books about writing that I have also loved, (Stephen King, Anne Lamott, etc) this book is unique and deserves a read through; it might not appeal to everyone, but I do think that every writer should read it and find what gold speaks to them. I also recommend trying out an AWA workshop, especially if you have had brutal experiences with profs or teachers, or are feeling really blocked. I'll give another update after attending the seminar myself.
Although I agree with other reviewers that it is at best a guide to writers who want to learn how to be gentle, professional workshop leaders of writing groups, I feel all writers who read other authors writings in workshops would benefit from her wise experience. I have had the benefit of her guidance in many workshops without having known the origin of the culture of manners that I experienced. I wish that her ideas had already influenced the teaching of creative writing in high school--no luck there. But all of the classes and workshops that I have attended as an adult have been in agreement with Pat Schneider's philosophy.
Recently, I attended a workshop in France with Cary Tennis, who has been trained in the Amherst Writers' Workshop Method, and I loved the results, both in my writing as well as in the texture and experience of the workshop itself. In fact, I will be attending a training in the AWA method this month!
I recommend that all writers (beginning or not; blocked or not) try out the exercises in this book. I have found them to lead to very interesting results in my writing.
Although there are many other books about writing that I have also loved, (Stephen King, Anne Lamott, etc) this book is unique and deserves a read through; it might not appeal to everyone, but I do think that every writer should read it and find what gold speaks to them. I also recommend trying out an AWA workshop, especially if you have had brutal experiences with profs or teachers, or are feeling really blocked. I'll give another update after attending the seminar myself.
July 29, 2017
After today, I will no longer give a star rating for a book - if it is possible to leave the rating blank. It has made me uncomfortable from the start. I certainly am not qualified as a critic. Read this book and you will know why I have chosen to refrain from giving stars in the future.
Some powerful quotes about "writing with others":
"Each writer [in a workshop or writing group] is finding his or her way to voice. It cannot be coerced, and it cannot be given form or shape by anyone else."
And, about reading first drafts and the importance of confidentiality..."This is a holy experience; this is revelation."
And Schneider quotes Barnett Newman as saying "Art criticism is to the artist as ornithology is to the birds."
Schneider's 5 affirmations include her belief that "everyone is born with creative genius" and that "writing is an art form that belongs to all people, regardless of economic class or educational level."
"A writer is someone who writes." This affirmation alone gave me courage to think of myself as a writer.
Many helpful/creative writing exercises fill the pages of this book. If you love to write, read it!
Some powerful quotes about "writing with others":
"Each writer [in a workshop or writing group] is finding his or her way to voice. It cannot be coerced, and it cannot be given form or shape by anyone else."
And, about reading first drafts and the importance of confidentiality..."This is a holy experience; this is revelation."
And Schneider quotes Barnett Newman as saying "Art criticism is to the artist as ornithology is to the birds."
Schneider's 5 affirmations include her belief that "everyone is born with creative genius" and that "writing is an art form that belongs to all people, regardless of economic class or educational level."
"A writer is someone who writes." This affirmation alone gave me courage to think of myself as a writer.
Many helpful/creative writing exercises fill the pages of this book. If you love to write, read it!
May 1, 2013
Anyone who's been beaten down by writing workshops, or who is thinking of starting his/her own writing workshop, must pick up this book immediately. Schneider's method and philosophy has almost completely changed the way I think about writing--no small feat, since I've been thinking about writing my entire life. I'm sure her overwhelming positivity will wear off in a few days, but even knowing there IS a way to improve writing without being critical is fairly revolutionary. Workshops in MFA programs teach the craft of writing. This book focuses on the art of writing--and does so in a structured, but nuanced, way. It does get a little repetitive (it's basically a textbook after all), but if you're a writer, or a teacher of writing, I can't recommend this book highly enough.
April 14, 2015
I love this book so much. I first heard of Pat Schneider and the Amherst Writers & Artists method several years ago from reading Cary Tennis's Salon.com advice column, Since You Asked. I checked it out of the library because I've just started writing my first book and thought it might help. I love that Pat starts right at the beginning with fear: the writer's fear, the fears that sit there in our path, blocking the way. Yay, Pat! I immediately ordered my own copy of the book and I'm almost finished with this first reading. I find myself writing in the margins, writing in the blank sheets at the back of the book. I especially love her sensitivity toward writers with less formal education and smaller English vocabularies.
April 10, 2015
I found this book inspiring and practical. She explains many dilemmas and fears that many writers encounter as they start writing again or if they already are writing, but are have a bought of writer's block. Her real life examples, writing samples, and writing exercises helped me open up my creative mind. Now when I sit down to write, I feel more relaxed and my ideas feel more natural and easy flowing. I recommend this book to anyone looking to improve their writing and creativity. It teaches you to accept the things you do not have control over, and to steer the things you can control. Since I've read this book from front to back, my writing has become more prolific. I've written many poems and I am almost finished with a short story.
August 1, 2015
An excellent book on how to create a writing practice either on your own or in a group. Packed with prompts, ideas, helpful tips, hints, and stories about the joy and difficulties of writing.
Pat Schneider starts the book with all the blocks writers face, from the inner critic to not knowing what to write about.
The next part of the book, Schneider brings in the Amherst Writers and Artists Workshop method--a popular way to get started and keep writing.
Schneider includes sections on fiction and poetry, technique and method, with more than 100 writing exercises, from how to get started to getting out of your rut.
Worthwhile, and rich in help.
Pat Schneider starts the book with all the blocks writers face, from the inner critic to not knowing what to write about.
The next part of the book, Schneider brings in the Amherst Writers and Artists Workshop method--a popular way to get started and keep writing.
Schneider includes sections on fiction and poetry, technique and method, with more than 100 writing exercises, from how to get started to getting out of your rut.
Worthwhile, and rich in help.
November 4, 2019
In my early years of facilitating therapeutic writing, I found Pat Schneider's work inspiring. Driven by inclusive values, she demonstrates the power of writing for us all. Her work was the foundation of my approach to facilitating writing with female inmates. Practical, structured, and compassionate suggestions are plentiful throughout the book. The attention to ethics that I find in her writing and in advice for guiding writing is often not addressed in other writing books. Her commitment to writing as an instrument for empowerment is palpable. I would highly recommend this classic to anyone in a writing group or who is facilitating writing.
October 16, 2014
If you're thinking of writing memoir, I highly recommend you take the time to read this book COVER TO COVER. Pat addresses important memoir writing issues (for example, writing about others, how much to share and when and why, etc), shares the guidelines of the AWA method of writers workshops, and tells many relevant stories from her own experience.
I use this book a lot with my writing coaching clients.
I use this book a lot with my writing coaching clients.
October 25, 2011
For writers who want help in either teaching in the A.W.A. method, or for writers who can use help when they have writer's block, overcoming fear, and developing lasting work, this informative book gives detailed information of how to overcome these obstacles. I cannot say enough about Pat Schneider, and this is a must for writers.
June 6, 2016
This is aimed at the beginning writer, but might be inspirational for anyone feeling blocked or stuck in a rut. It left me feeling extremely inspired and with my confidence bolstered, and gave me a long list of other books to read.
March 3, 2019
I love the fact that shes interested in creating impact and empowering the less privileged through her writing workshop. Very good and inspiring book especially for those looking to write or have a writing workshop. Pat breaks it down and even provides exercises to help the reader.
June 15, 2019
I love this book. Love it. I will just quote what is on the inside jacket: "Schneider's innovative teaching method will refresh the experienced writer and encourage the beginner. Her book is the essential owner's manual for the writer's voice."
September 6, 2007
An absolutely indispensable guide for leading writing workshops, and also for keeping one's own writing spirit alive through whatever life brings.
October 28, 2007
This is a wonderful gentle and validating book. Great teaching methods. Release the muse!
October 14, 2008
my new favorite place to find inspiration
July 29, 2008
Amazing woman, amazing book. If you think you can not write read this book and you will know you can.
September 7, 2008
This is a must have for writers and writing teachers. Schneider is approachable and wonderful. I'd love her to be my neighbor and friend. It's a great book. You're in good hands here.
October 19, 2008
I had the pleasure to train with Pat Schneider. Her method of workshop transforms lives. The method appears simple but the results ar profound.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews