Lisa Churchville, author of “The Courtyard,” Winner in the 2021 San Diego Memoir Showcase. Interview by Laura Engel, SDMWA Board President
LE: Congratulations on being a winner in the Showcase. In a nutshell – tell us about your winning memoir piece for the 7th Annual San Diego Memoir Showcase.
LC: It’s a story about the personal growth and learning that came from saying yes to a deep friendship.
LE: What has been your experience taking classes/workshops and writing memoir in San Diego?
LC: As a professional editor, it is a joy to sit back and be a student once in a while. I always come away from a class or workshop inspired with new ways to improve my work. San Diego has a vibrant, supportive community of authors. Writing can be a lonely endeavor. Having peers to cheer you on is priceless.
LE: This year has been unsettling in so many ways. How do you think that has affected your writing?
LC: The world slowing down had a positive impact on my writing. With the emergence of Zoom, I was able to attend more classes and workshops than ever before. All of a sudden, a Read and Critique session was only two hours, versus two hours plus a 45-minute drive each way, which was much more doable. Being more connected led to more accountability and more pages being produced. I secretly loved it.
LE: Lisa, what are you most excited about when it comes to participating in the 6th Annual San Diego Memoir Showcase??
LC: Everything! Table reads, a live show in a beautiful theater, hearing my piece acted out, being in the company of so many excellent writers—these are things I never imagined. I had only ever dreamed of having my words published on paper. The whole process has been a blast.
LE: What advice would you give new memoir writers?
LC: If a little voice in your head calls you to write, pay attention to that. Carve out even 15 minutes a day to listen to that muse. Find a class or an online group. You will never regret where your writing will take you.
LE: Again, congratulations Lisa, we are so excited to see your story performed on stage at the Conrad in La Jolla on Dec. 7th!