Week 2
Connection
This week’s writing workshop theme of connection invites us to reflect on the profound beauty of the relationships that shape our lives. Connection is truly a gift—a thread that ties us together, forming a rich tapestry in which each interaction, no matter how small, adds depth to our personal story. Whether it’s the bond we share with a child, the companionship of a partner, the laughter of a friend, or even a fleeting moment with a stranger, each connection we experience is a thread woven into the fabric of our existence. It’s through these connections that we find meaning, understanding, and shared humanity. As we write this week, let’s honor every connection, acknowledging how they each contribute to the brilliance of our shared experience and the reasons we are all here.
Week 2 Playlist Song list- add songs to list and I will make playlist on Apple/Spotify!
Threads that Bind
Think about a connection that has changed your life—whether it’s with a family member, a friend, a partner, or even a fleeting encounter with a stranger. Write about this connection, describing the moments and interactions that made it so impactful. You can choose to write from the first person or third person perspective. As you write, use vivid and descriptive language to bring the emotions and details of this relationship to life. How did this connection feel? What did it look like? Did it feel tender, worn, lingering, or unfolding? Did it leave you with a sense of calm or a new understanding of yourself? Think about the places, sounds, smells, and gestures that shaped your interaction. How has this connection influenced who you are today?
Here is a snippet from Gregory Alan Isakov for inspiration:
*"That sky glowed all calico like phosphor in the sea,
to the ground we fall, she owns us all,
kings and boys and beasts...
​
Oh darlin, pardon me,
but do I look familiar?
when we were just flying free
and we burned from a freight train,
and we were some flicker of truth in the smile of a salesman,
and we were all buried jewels ‘neath the grass in the suburbs,
and we were all living proof,
oh darlin, pardon me."*
Isakov’s lyrics are filled with quiet beauty and profound connection, capturing both the simplicity and complexity of life’s moments. Let your writing reflect a connection that has left its mark on you in similar ways.
Frayed Connections
Think about a messy relationship in your life—one that pulls you in and makes you feel unsettled. It might not be perfect, but you can’t seem to let go. Why are we drawn to these kinds of relationships, even if we know they might not last? Are we looking for something we’re missing, or is it like a fire that we can't ignore, even if it hurts? Think about how these connections leave a mark on us, even if they don’t last forever. What do we learn from them?
​​
​
​
​
​
​
Feedback Ideas:
Favorite Word/Phrase
Ideas to Help Improve Phrase
Just an Ear
Weekly Inspiration
Writing Cues:
She held.. (any pronoun is fine)
When we..
That town..
The messy...
Can you...
​
Songwriting Challenge​
Topic: Frayed Connections
V1. She held..
V2. She saw..
Chorus: And in
V3. The mess..
​
Song Study:
Living Proof Gregory Alan Isakov
(turn on the CC for lyrics)
​
A song about my beautiful momma
Podcast:
Y'all... don't sleep on this. One of the best podcasts ever. It's a series but it's worth the time, I promise. SOOO many connections explored in this, from friendship to relationships.
​
​