The Traveler's Mind Writing Workshop is designed for writers who want to generate new work, be it fiction, poetry or literary nonfiction, or to hone pieces that are in early stages of development. Each of the ten days begins with a group breakfast, followed by a series of writing exercises in ever-changing locations.

The 2008 workshop takes place in Papantla in the state of Veracruz, Mexico, where we will do our writing exercises at various locations in town - on the bustling central plaza, the cathedral terrace high above town, or in sight of the famous Totonac voladores as they perform their ritual flight - and outside of town, at the archaelogical site of El Tajín.

Because the best writing is based on fresh, original observation, irrespective of genre, these exercises are designed to develop perception, to cultivate the habit of taking the time to see.

After spending the morning writing, participants have the afternoon free to read, nap, explore or prepare for the evening class.

In the two-hour evening sessions we examine published work provided by the instructor, in order to identify and discuss point of view, narrative time, setting, and other basic technical elements. There is also time available in the evenings for the critique of stories or essays in progress that participants bring from home. (See schedule.)

In Mexico, Gaudencio Simbrón will be on hand as staff assistant, deciphering menus, helping us change money, scheduling our museum visits, and acting as liaison with hotel managers and drivers. Gaudencio is a tour guide, a writer, an activist for indigenous rights, and a native of El Tajín who lives year-round in Papantla.

Students return from this workshop with a keen understanding of the discipline of writing and with a deposit account of ideas, fragments, new techniques, sketches and fresh starts - material, in other words, to last for months.

Enrollment is limited to 10 students; early registration is advised to hold a place.