UU National Novel Writing Month Group
Do you have an idea for a novel that you've never gotten around to writing? Are you looking for a fun challenge? Would you like to boost your creativity, or get out of a rut? National Novel Writing Month may be for you!
Each November, hundreds of thousands of people accept the challenge to write 50,000 words before the end of the month. Some aspire to be published, others write for the fun of it, to explore ideas, or to jump-start their creativity.
This year, participants are invited to join our new UU NaNo writing group to add a social element to an otherwise solitary activity. We'll get together periodically to enjoy camaraderie (and snacks) while working on our own projects. Daily writing prompts will be available to help us when we're stuck, and to add other dimensions to our work; we'll cheer each other on, give feedback if requested, and generally have a good time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to sign up with the National Novel Writing Month website in order to participate?
A: No. You can just join us to write, if you prefer. But it's free to sign up, and adds additional layers of community and support. Plus, the website will help you track your word count, how many words you have left, your daily targets, etc.
Q: Do I need to register for UU National Novel Writing Month?
A: If you want to join us, then yes: please register so we can keep you informed about our gatherings, send you writing prompts, etc.
Q: Can I work on something other than a novel?
A: Yes! Some people write short stories or essays. Some just start writing and see what develops! You can also set your own word count goal, if 50,000 is not an appropriate target for you. See https://nanowrimo.org for more information.
Q: When will the writing gatherings be held?
A: That depends upon the availability of the participants. Toward the end of October, I'll start a conversation with registrants to see what days/times would work for most people.
Q: Will there be childcare?
A: If childcare would be helpful, please let us know and we will try to work it out. Ultimately it will depend upon the availability of childcare staff!
Q: This sounds like fun, but how is it "religious education"?
A: For many people, writing is a powerful tool for introspection, making meaning, healing, and creativity. Participating in "NaNo" helps people establish a daily writing habit that can extend far past the end of the month and beyond the boundaries of novel writing. In addition, the daily writing prompts invite participants to explore their characters' spiritual lives and views on various topics of religion. Of course, these prompts are optional, but they could lead to interesting additional dimensions to character development.
Q: Has this class been offered in the past?
A: First, it's not really a "class." There won't be writing instruction or assignments -- just various forms of moral support for people doing NaNo this year. I (Stephanie) first participated in NaNo in 2008, as a way to prioritize writing and create a daily habit, and had so much fun that I continued for many years after that. This is the first time that I'm trying this out as a religious education program; whether we do it again in the future will depend upon interest and how well it goes!
Q: I have a different question. Who can I ask?
A: Please send an email to kimball@uubloomington.org with any additional questions!
