SUNDAY ESSAY CLUB JULY

Each session centers around one iconic essay.

The first our begins with a brief lecture introducing the author and contextualizing the work. We read closely and discuss technique — structure, tone, movement, voice — to understand what makes the piece work and how it can inform our own practice.

In the second hour, we write.

You’ll be guided through focused exercises and prompts designed to help you apply what we’ve discussed — whether you're working on personal essays, narrative nonfiction, or developing your voice on the page. Prompts are generative, flexible, and rooted in craft.

Reading material is provided one week in advance.

All levels welcome.

The Sunday Essay Club is hosted by bilingual writer and visual artist Sophia Hembeck. She has published three books of essays called:  Things I Have Noticed, 2020 & Things I Have Loved, 2023 & Things That Are Different Now. Her bestselling substack 'The Muse Letter' is published every week, where she wonders about the meanderings of life.  She holds a M.A. in Playwriting (Szenisches Schreiben, UdK Berlin) and has been teaching creative writing classes since 2020. She is represented by Zoe Martin from JE Literary Agency in Berlin.

📅 Upcoming Dates (2025):

Sunday, May 25, 4-6 PM

Sarah Manguso

Essay: "Keeping Time"

Sunday, June 29, 4-6 PM

Audre Lorde

Essay: "The Master’s Tools Will Never Dismantle the Master’s House"

Sunday, July 27, 4-6 PM

Rebecca Solnit

Essay: "Men Explain Things to Me"

Sunday, August 31, 4-6 PM

Zadie Smith

Essay: "Fail Better"

Sunday, September 28, 4-6 PM

Eileen Myles

Essay: "The Importance of Being Earnest"

Sunday, October 26, 4-6 PM

Kristin Dombek

Essay: "The Selfishness of Others"