© Meredith Mullins
“The inspiration was through the roof. I haven’t felt this energized about writing for a decade.” — Lowell
Founded by Carol Allen in 1989, the Paris Writers Workshop is the longest-running writing workshop in Europe. Writers from across the EU, UK and USA gather in Paris to hone their craft through a week-long marathon of masterclasses, panel discussions, and one-on-one sessions with literary agents and instructors.
WICE hosts the workshop once every two years. The 2026 edition took place from May 31–June 5 at the Paris College of Art, offering masterclasses in six genres: Creative Nonfiction, Memoir, Mystery/Suspense, Novel, Screenwriting, and Short Fiction.
Participants shared their feedback, with three themes emerging consistently:
Confidence & Craft
These writers described renewed motivation for their work, with a clearer sense of their writing and direction. They took away concrete tools for pacing, character development, and varying the passage of time in their work.
“I was at a crossroads and even considering giving up writing. My week at PWW gave me the boost I needed to continue.” — Elizabeth B.
“I gained a wealth of knowledge about different genres and how to approach my own writing. I learned how to read more analytically.” — Lilias Martin
Insight & Instruction
Attendees raved about their instructors’ depth of knowledge and ability to expand individual teaching points into broader lessons. They gained insight into their chosen genres and personal creative processes, as well as practical publishing advice.
“She shared her love and insights about suspense and helped us to apply them to our own work.” — Lindsey Arnold, on Hallie Ephron
“Sam would ask the class questions that had us examine the effect that a writer’s choices were having on us.” — Emily Stevens, on Lan Samantha Chang
“Listening to agents talk about what they do and how they do it demystified that area for me.” — Kit Desjacques
Community & Momentum
The benefits didn’t end on the last day of the PWW. Participants felt energized and inspired, taking home a fresh burst of momentum as well as meaningful connections. Some even said that they learned as much from their classmates as from their instructors.
“Our class decided to set up a writing group and remain in contact.” — Elizabeth Neylon
“I really enjoyed hanging out with other writing and reading nerds for a week. Like summer camp without the sunburn.” — Anonymous
Learn more about the 2026 workshop here.
