November writing sessions in New Westminster and Burnaby
By Cheryl Minns, Arts Editor
This November, as part of National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo), Lower Mainland libraries, coffee shops, restaurants, and SkyTrains are filling up with amateur and professional writers each attempting to create a manuscript in a month. These write-in events invite writers of all skill levels and genres—be it a novel, autobiography, or short story collection—to join other writers in the pursuit of finishing a first draft.
In New Westminster and Burnaby, there are write-ins to suit writers’ various interests and needs, including food-focused writing sessions, outgoing get-togethers, quiet gatherings, and a writing event on the SkyTrain.
Sushi Write-In: This is the event for hungry writers who enjoy a light snack or a whole meal while writing. The event will take place at Sushi Well (26A Fourth St., New Westminster) on November 11 from 7–9 p.m. This write-in will be held in a private room in the restaurant, so writers will have plenty of quiet time to work on their literary masterpieces while they enjoy a variety of sushi.
BPL McGill Branch Write-In: This weekly write-in is a great place for outgoing writers to meet other local wordsmiths. Every Monday, a lively group of writers meets in the Program Room at the Burnaby Public Library McGill Branch (4595 Albert St., Burnaby) from 6:30–8:30 p.m. Spirited conversations, free refreshments, and timed word sprints are only the beginning for this write-in.
As an added bonus for writers who have work they would like to share, the McGill Branch will be hosting a Writers’ Open Mic night on December 7 from 6:30–8 p.m. Those who want to join in are encouraged to sign up in person at 6:30 p.m. at the event.
BPL Bill Prittie Metrotown Branch Write-In: Writers who long for a quiet writing session among friends should check out this write-in. A small group of writers meets every Thursday from 5–7 p.m. at a table on the first floor of the library (6100 Willingdon Ave., Burnaby) to discuss their story projects, build up their word counts, and have friendly conversations. Be sure to look for the NaNoWriMo sign to find the group’s table.
Other Eleven Months Write-In: Writers who want to commit more time to their written works should try this write-in held every Sunday from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. at Waves Coffee House (715 Columbia St., New Westminster). The Other Eleven Months group has a room reserved at the back of the coffee house for writers to enjoy their writing and their coffee in peace. Unlike the other November-only write-ins, this write-in continues throughout the year.
Transit Write-In: Writing is no longer a stationary activity with this write-in, which takes place on the SkyTrain on November 14. The ride begins at Waterfront Station at 11 a.m. where writers will fill a SkyTrain car and begin building their word counts. The group’s location will be updated frequently on their Twitter account (@Vancowrimo) for writers who wish to hop on at other stations. The ride will last until 3 p.m.
