Flash Fiction and a Master of the Trade

Yesterday I attended a Flash Fiction with Master of All Trades,  Mark Ari.  He is an artist in so many different ways: writer, singer/songwriter, painter, teacher.  Not to mention down to earth and generally a nice guy.  Just being in the same room with him is an amazing experience.

He used writing exercises to help us tap into our writing and characters ‘yearnings’.  I have never been a fan of exercises (in any form) and typically skip them.  But since I was in the same room for the next hour, I joined in on the second round.

It was incredible.

Few things tap as deeply into my soul the way this did.  By the end of the 15 minute writing exercise, my throat burned from choking back tears as I felt I knew myself and my desires better than I ever had before.  And, yes, for those who know me better than I know myself, you’re right: everything seems to stem from the loss of my grandmother and, of course, the loss of Jake.

Who would have thought a simple writing exercise could leave me feeling so raw and exposed as this one?  Obviously Mr. Ari knows his trade and what he’s doing.

If you ever see his name pop up on anything he’s participating in – go.  You will not be disappointed!

 

For more information on other writing workshops, please see The Florida Writers Association website or visit the Ancient City Chapter website.