“I can honestly say that my time spent at Sirenland has been transformative, in both my process and the project I’m close to completing. Not only that, the community of writers it attracts has for me, personally, become invaluable in life after Sirenland. The fact that the conference takes place in one of the most beautiful places on earth only adds to the magic carefully curated by Dani, Michael and Hannah.”
Established in 2007 by authors Dani Shapiro, Michael Maren and Hannah Tinti, along with Antonio and Carla Sersale, owners of Le Sirenuse Hotel, Sirenland brings writers together in Positano, Italy each spring to learn, create, and be inspired while forming a unique, supportive community.
Sirenland has hosted many wonderful authors to Positano over the years, including Jim Shepard, Karen Shepard, Susan Choi, Meg Wolitzer, Richard Russo, Tobias Wolf, Karen Russell, Saïd Sayrafiezadeh, Mia Alvar, Nam Le, Anthony Doerr, Andrew Sean Greer, Andre Dubus III, Susan Orlean, Alexander Chee, Lila Azam Zanganeh, Jennifer Finney Boylan, Andre Aciman, Jess Walter, and Elizabeth Gilbert.
But the most important part of Sirenland has always been the students who come to Positano and take part in this special week. Deep friendships have been formed here, as well as closely-bonded support groups and the first seeds of manuscripts that have become award-winning books.
Each day at Sirenland begins with intensive writing workshops focused on fiction or memoir, led by experienced and motivating instructors. Participation is limited to ten students in each workshop to ensure individual attention and create a close, friendly community. Afternoons include generative writing sessions, craft lectures, and free time for writing, resting or exploring Positano. Evenings include student and instructor readings and presentations, as well as fantastic meals overlooking the beauty of the Tirreno Sea.
Positano is nestled in the heart of the Amalfi Drive, located where the Sorrentine Peninsula bends towards the South, becoming the Gulf of Salerno. In the middle of this panoramic bay lies the Islands of Li Galli, formerly called the “Island of the Sirens” in mythological times. This magical coast can be explored by land or sea. Day trips can also be arranged to visit nearby Almafi, Ravello, Salerno, Napoli and Pompeii.