"It was a fantastic experience. It was more full and personal than I expected — by far. The workshop gave so much insight and chance for growth. Being in a small group and having such direct input made quite a difference. I learned so much about story, craft, the publishing process, and refining my own words. The readings and even conversations outside of formal workshop times just made the experience richer"
- 2019 workshop participant
An immersive program for new and experienced authors, the Leopardi Writing Conference consists of workshops and craft talks in fiction, nonfiction, and poetry.
As writing tends to be a solitary endeavor, the Leopardi Writing Conference will serve the inspiring purpose of community and place. We invite you to take advantage of this opportunity to receive expert feedback on your writing project, and get to know your fellow writers, including the distinguished members of our faculty:
View the 2019 Faculty here.
View the 2018 Faculty here.
The core of the conference will consist of writing workshops, as well as lectures, readings, and panel discussions. There will be a free day to explore the City of Recanati and the surrounding Region of Le Marche.
The Gallery Hotel has generously offered a variety of rooms to our writers at discounted rates, and conference staff will be available to assist with any other arrangements.
Founder and Co-Director
Founder and Co-Director
Staff
Staff
Founder and Co-Director
Founder and Co-Director
Staff
Staff
Just over two hours outside of Rome, Le Marche ("Lay Mar-Kay") is a region famous for its spectacular beaches and rustic mountains. Pastoral fields and forests offer a glimpse into an intimate experience of authentic Italian country life. It's little wonder then that, as the locals, the Marchegiani ("Mar-Kay-Jee-Ah-Nee"), will tell you, this is the land that gave us Raphael.
The inspiration for the Leopardi Writing Conference is the life and work of another one of Le Marche's most famous sons, Giacomo Leopardi. A towering presence in the history of Italian letters, and a key influence on the development of Romanticism in Europe, the reputation of this celebrated poet looms large over his birthplace, the beautiful medieval hilltop town of Recanati.
With its Renaissance architecture surrounding an elegant piazza, Recanati offers an undiluted reflection of classic Italy. Set atop the marvelous "Hill of Infinity," Recanati makes a perfect jumping-off point for exploring the mountains and forests of Le Marche's interior. Just as close at hand: the sparkling beaches of the Adriatic Coast. Comfortable, ideally situated, and well-provisioned with modern amenities, Recanati's The Gallery Hotel will host the Leopardi Writing Conference.
In partnership with the Italian literary society Pelasgo 968, the Leopardi Writing Conference is pleased to announce the PELASGO AWARD.
PRIZE: $500 + one tuition-free full poetry workshop at Leopardi Writing Conference 2020
The winner of the Pelasgo Award will also be invited to Italy to receive the award in person, and enjoy a THREE-NIGHT STAY at the scenic Italian seaside bed-and-breakfast Le Terrazze.
To apply, submit two unpublished poems in English (maximum 50 lines total) to giacomo@leopardiwc.org
Application fee: $25
After submitting your application materials to giacomo@leopardiwc.org, you will receive a reply with instructions for paying the application fee.
