Student Comments: The Write by the Lake Retreat

Our recent attendees have traveled from both coasts and from states in between to be with us. Here’s what they’ve said about Write-by-the-Lake:

“ The [afternoon optional] panel discussions offered insight, information and ideas. The panel members—Laurel, Chris, Jerry, Marshall, Karla, Kathleen, and Kelly—were funny and knowledgeable and so willing to answer questions. Thank you!”—Carol Owens Campbell, Long Grove, Ill.

“ The 3-hour class format is the best I’ve been in. Finally time to do more than just get started.”—Peg Rosin, Ringle, Wis.

“ Laurel was ingenious in designing the materials for [her section]. They launch students on a path to discovery, each participant finding their own truth.”—Kurt Moberg, Cedar Rapids, Iowa

“ I particularly appreciated the time Marshall took to comment on works-in-progress. I look forward to doing this again. I feel energized, and I can’t wait to get back to my computer. An outstanding experience!”—Charles P. Murphy, Abingdon, Ill.

“ Kathleen was phenomenal. She was thoughtful and extremely encouraging. What a great resource and journey this week has become.”—Hannah Wiegel, Shullsburg, Wis.

“ The setting was outstanding. The instructor was perfect for the subject. Jerry was instructive, non-intimidating, very patient and helpful. His most valuable help were words of encouragement and a sense of effort that must come from the endeavor. I would take this class again in a heartbeat.”—Melvin McCartney, Madison, Wis.

“ Laurel was an incredible instructor, and there’s almost too much information to handle. The critiques I received are an invaluable asset for writing my novel. I’m really looking forward to more workshops taught by Laurel.”—Joel Hans, Madison, Wis.

“ Well, I almost chickened out and cancelled, but thank goodness I didn’t. I found the discussion very helpful ... and it gave me a confidence that surprised me. I liked the three-hour format ... the pressure-free optional participation.”—Martha Grasty, Madison, Wis.

"Wow! It's been a long time since I enjoyed and learned so much from a workshop." — Hannah Diament-Talmadge, Madison, WI

"Laurel 'opened the door' of my own poetry to let me see a bridge between poetry and fiction! She led me to start developing a broader base for my writing - techniques such as point of view (which I had never thought about for my poetry) and the 'not myself' essential of creating a poem! Thank you! P.S. She pushed me, showed me, encouraged me to try writing in forms - sestina, etc. - and though I resisted, I felt my 'limitations' crack open so I could see possibilities far into my writing landscape!" — Peg Sherry, Madison, WI

"Excellent course. Perfect balance of instructor input and student empowerment. VERY useful handouts! Thank you." — Susan M. Rustick, Madison, WI

"Laurel Yourke is an excellent teacher who has a gift for helping each poet in the class develop his/her writing in the best way - she individualizes instruction, but also teaches all of us. She has a delightful sense of humor and a sincere desire to make sure we understand! Thanks so much, Laurel. It was a fun, encouraging and informative workshop!" — Linda K. Hoard, Arizona

"I particularly enjoyed the enthusiastic, yet objective comments on works. Specific topics were addressed, and though the class was informal, it was quite professional. An incredible opportunity!" — Carol Hornung, Madison, WI

"I particularly appreciated the time Marshall took to comment on works-in-progress. I look forward to doing this again. I feel energized, and I can't wait to get back to my computer. An outstanding experience!" — Charles P. Murphy, Abingdon, IL

"It was like a breath of fresh air, much needed showers on my parched writing. Marshall was wonderful in his teaching, handouts and consultations."
— Janice Kaat, Sheboygan Falls, WI

"As usual [Laurel] came exceptionally well-prepared. The time and effort you took to select poems for each of us was an unimagined gift. How characteristically thoughtful and creative. I feel that I learned a great deal on the techniques of crafting a poem. The class interaction was extremely helpful to each of us." — Marv Beatty, Madison, WI

"This was very timely for me. It was helpful to have others in the group who were at a similar level, as well as some who were further along. If everyone were far ahead of me, I'd have gotten discouraged. Encouragement. Helpful criticism. Experience of reading. The challenge to write a poem each day. Laurel's high standards but tender critiques were good." — Bill McConnell, Madison, WI

"I thoroughly enjoyed: the didactic sections, the hand-outs, the readings, the assignments, the tips, the method of critiques, the guest poet, the classroom camaraderie, your honest, kind comments, the lake view, the opportunity to take part in a reading, the opportunity to critique others' work (including your own) and the informality in class. Three hours per day was just right. It left me plenty of time to write, to read, and to sit staring at the lake. The two social events were quite enjoyable. It was great to meet the fiction writers. You offered much this week (tips, techniques, and insight into the culture of poetry). Your belief in me as a poet has been a gift. On a scale of 1-5, I'd rate this a ten!!!!!!!!" — Marcia Marino, Greenfield, WI

"Chris was wonderful, giving us braod spectrum and the little details that will help my writing." — Gary Kriesel, Madison, WI

“UW-Madison writing courses--a gourmet dish! Seasoned instructors. An energized atmosphere. Supportive colleagues.” — Ginny Jones, Chicago, IL

"I really like the handouts because I can look at them as resources. I especially loved the Writer Credos!" — Kimberly Brown, Naperville, IL

"Bob helped us become a real community and we will continue to be supportive of one another." — Ellen Jungbluth, Hartland, WI

"[Bob Curry was] insightful and articulate. Wonderful things to say about writing fiction, in general, and about participants' writing samples."
— Dennis Vickers, Madison, WI

"Anyone interested in improving nonfiction writing must, must participant in one of Marshall J. Cook's seminars. Marshall addresses the essentials of vigorous, clear writing, the subtleties of individual style, and the unique concerns of each student. His supportive and reflective remarks build the necessary confidence and motivation to complete each writing challenge." — Ginny Jones, Chicago, IL

"Well, I almost chickened out and cancelled, but thank goodness I didn't. I found the discussion very helpful ... and it gave me a confidence that surprised me. I liked the three-hour format ... the pressure-free optional participation." —Martha Grasty, Madison, WI

"Wow! It has been a long time since I enjoyed and learned so much from a workshop." — Hannah Diament-Talmadge, Madison, WI

Back to Write-by-the-Lake page