Writing Marathon - New Orleans 2025
I recently went on a trip to New Orleans for the annual Writing Marathon. I had attended a condensed version in 2024 as a part of the Tennessee Williams Literary Festival, but this is the full three day conference. I only stayed for two of the days, but when I say it was jam packed, that’s exactly what I mean.
The marathon was created by Richard Louth and was originally intended for teachers, but has morphed over the years into a writing conference for everyone. The main goal is to get people writing. We broke out into small groups of 3-5 people and went out into the French Quarter to write in different locations. My group wrote at restaurants, coffee shops, art galleries. But there were many groups that found other locations to write, too.
It was decidedly hot (around mid-90’s) the entire time, but even if I would have stayed home it was the same temps here from what I hear! We wandered the streets and ate the food and wrote words. At the end of each location we shared what we wrote with the group. The businesses in New Orleans and the French Quarter were very kind to us when we stopped in to write. I guess this is a slower season for tourism in the French Quarter, most likely due to the extreme heat.
I had a small mishap of forgetting to pack underwear so my group kindly went with me into Trashy Diva to pick out some new unmentionables for the remainder of my trip. Everyone knew about my side quest, because it was one of the first pieces I wrote upon arriving and I ended up presenting about it to the large group.
Trashy Diva to the rescue!
I was teased relentlessly and everyone kept joking that they only sold crotchless underwear. They did have crotchless panties, but I did NOT purchase those. They did not, however, have Hanes or Granny panties, unfortunately.
I also made a joke that since it was Pride month I wanted to find a girl to kiss. My entire group was supportive and some kept pointing women out that were potential “candidates” Of course, it was all in fun and I kissed no one, but we all had a good laugh about it. We shared our stories and what we’re writing over good food and even better drinks. Every night I went to bed I felt full of joy and a reconnection to myself.
The people I met on this trip have left a permanent mark on my soul. I enjoyed the time I spent with everyone - whether they were in my writing group or not. The level of support and love I received makes me want to attend every single year from here on out. I initially wanted to attend because I have slowed down on journaling and I know that writing helps me to manage my thoughts and emotions - more than meditation or medication can. My life is in a little bit of a topsy turvy turmoil right now and I needed a jumpstart to get back to the words on the pages. So far, since my return, I’ve been writing every day in my journal and yes, it does help me process.
I fully intend on going next year again and seeing all my new friends and meet new ones.
Have you been to New Orleans? What are your favorite spots? There’s so much more to NOLA than just Bourbon Street.
Until next time,
H