Photographic Evidence of This Generation’s Inklings
September Newsletter
Dear Writers,
I will admit I sometimes have delusions of grandeur about what St. Basil Writers’ Workshop can become. I'm not subtle about my messaging. I really do want to cultivate and publish this generation's Inklings.
But being with the brilliant and inspiring second cohort and seeing their work at our in-person retreat in the Adirondack Mountains last month, I'm starting to think...
Maybe I'm underestimating what these people are capable of?
I see here incredible storytelling instincts and talents, but more importantly, I see people who are deeply committed to their fellow human beings, to the good of the world around them, and especially to their own souls.
Let's do a check in ten years from now. I bet the publishing landscape in the U.S. will be very different, and it will be at least partially because of these writers.
Thank you, St. Basil cohort 2, for the honor of your time, your talent, and your vision! I am deeply moved by our retreat last month and can’t wait to watch how your friendships and books flourish and nourish those around you.
Many thanks also to
, , Jonathan Pageau, , and Samira Kawash for helping me teach these beautiful people.Applications Open Nov. 1st for 2025-2026!
For those of you who are interested in applying to the St. Basil Writers’ Workshop, we’re opening applications for 2025-2026 in just a month and a half on November 1st! I would truly be honored to read your writing, and I hope you apply.
Here’s what you’ll need:
A 5,000-word writing sample (fiction only). Complete short stories are acceptable, as are excerpts from novellas and novels. Acceptance is determined by Dn. Nicholas based on submitted excerpts.
$25 for your application fee
That’s it!
Want to learn more about the program? Sign up for our open house on November 7th at 6pm EST.
Article Spotlight
Fantasy authors, this one’s for you! What is a magic system? What makes a magic system believable? How can you ensure it enhances your plot rather than overshadowing it? And what’s the difference between hard magic and soft magic? Jane Friedman’s “How to Create a Believable Magic System in Your Fantasy Story” is an excellent guide for anyone whose story features magic.
Storytelling Talk
What does it mean to be a culture creator in post-Christian America? How do we enter a dialogue that is increasingly factious? And what does it mean for beauty to save the world? I think we, as storytellers, have a unique opportunity and a unique responsibility. This is something we discuss a lot at St. Basil’s.
Here’s a version of this talk I gave a few years back at the Ancient Faith Content Creators Conference.
In addition, there’s still time to sign up for my new, free, three-week series on Cultivating the Lifestyle of a Writer. Sign up to be the first to listen when the series drops!
Other News
Don’t forget that
, the press affiliated with St. Basil’s, has released its first book, Cantos of Arcadia! Be sure to snag your copy before September 24th so you can get the special, Kickstarter-only edition that will include bonuses not found in the retail version: special chapter headings, the original “Akathist” story, and a map/story bible will be included in this version.
This is the first in a long line of books that will be published by this generation’s best new writers.
Happy listening, reading, and writing!
~ Deacon Nicholas
Don’t forget the three who didn’t come! Angeline, Liam and myself!!!