Although Henry Thoreau never devoted an essay to advising fellow and future writers of best practices, he did talk about the act and the process of writing, from time to time. What can aspiring authors learn from his words, his texts, and from his own life examples? Corinne H. Smith will explore Thoreau’s approach to the art, including his techniques of observation, editing, reader engagement, perseverance, and commitment to the craft.

Corinne H. Smith is the author of “Westward I Go Free: Tracing Thoreau’s Last Journey,” and “Thoreau for Kids: His Life and Ideas, With 21 Activities.” Her video series, “Studying Thoreau,” can be found on YouTube. She supervises The Thoreau Society at the Shop at Walden Pond and serves as an occasional docent at Thoreau Farm.