Info
Jean-Marie Saporito was most recently a finalist in the Writing by Writers short fiction contest.Her prose has been published in Bellevue Literary Review, River Teeth, Blue Mesa Review, and elsewhere. Her nature haiku was chosen to be displayed as a weathergram for Albuquerque Open Space and will be included in a limited-edition poetry chapbook. Jean-Marie has been awarded the AWP Kurt Brown prize, the Taos Resident award, and nominated for a Pushcart. She’s written a novel based on her experiences as a critical care nurse and is writing a memoir-in-essays. She's taught creative writing for over two decades and has participated in numerous readings, conferences, and has served as a literary judge in several writing contests. She holds an MFA in creative writing from Vermont College of Fine Arts.
How it Works
Each workshop will have specific instructions, but in general, always bring what you're most comfortable writing with. Water, coffee, dark chocolate—you get the idea. Do not bring worry, pressure, or perfectionism. And if you do, that's okay, too. I give suggestions for how to make peace with the inner critic.
If you have any questions, or if you would like to speak with me directly for any reason, please don't hesitate to reach out.
Workshops
Personal Essay Seminar
6 Tuesdays 6-8 MST
COMING IN 2025
generative writing the study of craft
gentle critique connection
In this six-week personal essay seminar, we’ll explore the various ways literary techniques can facilitate the truest expression of self. This seminar will include generative writing time, the study of craft through close reading of published works, and gentle guidance and suggestions to help bring our essays to fruition. Additionally, the zoom room will open at 5 MST for those who want to write, socialize, and deepen our writer relationships. I’ll be available to accommodate everyone’s needs with breakout rooms.
The only requirement is an open mind, a writing instrument, and the blank page.
9th annual
Taos Writers Conference
Sponsored by SOMOS, Taos, NM
Early Bird Registration by end of day 6/28/25:
All workshops (except for the ones designated online via Zoom) are located at SOMOS, 108 Civic Plaza Dr, Taos, NM 87571, unless otherwise specified.
FRIDAY JULY 25, 2025 - SUNDAY JULY 27, 2025
The Taos Writers Conference was named one of the best in the Southwest
by The Writer magazine.
Dancing with Words – Implementing Literary Rhetorical Devices in Our Work
Memorable writing engages a reader not only on an intellectual level but can
evoke corporeal responses: stuttering hearts, flushing skin, a cloak of comfort
melting the iciness of isolation. With rhetorical devices, a writer conveys
emotions in a way that words alone cannot. In this workshop, we will discover the
techniques we already have in our tool bag, and may not realize, and add a few
mor. Participants will be asked to bring a page of their own prose. This will serve
as a portal to generative writing. Then we’ll dance with the words on the page,
intentionally employing some of these literary devices.
What my students and colleagues have to say.
“Jean-Marie permits your imagination to clue words and images into stories… universes where nothing is forbidden.”
Marica Cruz-Redding – journalist and former student
“The workshop is an invitation to play and to imagine your story in an entirely new way…it encouraged me to think of anything as a possible narrative frame."
Isobel O’Hare poet and essayist
"I found the theme and reading selections intriguing, and the prompt writing generative and enlightening. Jean-Marie is a gentle guide, natural teacher, and very generous with her knowledge."
Kelly Barrett (SOMOS workshop (2024)
“She has unlocked my writing practice and led to a full embrace of myself as a writer. I wholeheartedly recommend Jean-Marie as a writer’s coach.”
Michael Battisone (Personal Essay Seminar 2022 and writing coach)
FAQ
- How will we connect?
Depending on the service and circumstance, we will meet via Zoom or in-person.
- How do I pay?
Venmo is easiest, but check, cash, or gold nuggets are also accepted.
- What is your cancellation policy?
Life happens. Each service will have a specific cancellation policy.
Writing Retreats
Set in Taos, NM, this is a writer's dream. An immersive day or weekend, individually or in a small group of friends, tailored to meet your desires. Luxuriate in plenty of time to write, reflect, read, and receive guidance.
Please email for details concerning fees, lodging, and transportation.
Fiction and Nonfiction
Story Consultant and Editor
This individualized instruction works best when someone has an idea for a story or has already put words on the page. At that point, I become your writing guide, your cheerleader, and the person who wants your story to be written. If your idea is brewing, we’ll spend time discussing what you want to say and ways you might begin the writing process. For those with a draft of an essay or story, I give craft-based suggestions for revision. Often, I will recommend literature, craft essays, or books that might deepen your understanding and illustrate techniques. When I work one-on-one, I intend that you discover your story and the precise words with which to tell it.
I charge a flat rate of $50/hour and can provide an estimate.
I will work within your spending plan and time constraints.
