Literary Journal

Looking Glass Rock Writers' Conference

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About the magazine

The Looking Glass Rock Writers' Conference (LGRWC) is an annual gathering held in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina, near the town of Brevard. Founded in the early 2010s, it takes its name from the iconic granite monolith that overlooks the Pisgah National Forest—a landmark that has long served as a touchstone for regional artists and writers. The conference was established to provide an intimate, generative space where writers can work closely with distinguished faculty in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, away from the distractions of urban literary life. Its core mission is to foster serious craft development through daily workshops, craft talks, and one-on-one manuscript consultations, all within a supportive community that values sustained attention to language and form. Rather than a large-scale festival, LGRWC deliberately limits enrollment to ensure that each participant receives meaningful engagement with both faculty and peers. The conference also administers full scholarships—such as the TCLF Full Scholarship covering tuition, room, and board—to reduce financial barriers for emerging writers, reflecting a commitment to access and inclusivity in a region where such opportunities can be scarce.

Submitting your work

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Prospective applicants should first visit the conference website (lgrwc.org) to confirm annual dates, faculty lineup, and application windows, which typically open in the fall for the following summer. Applications generally require a writing sample (10–15 pages of poetry or 15–20 pages of prose), a brief statement of interest, and a letter of recommendation is not usually required. The conference values work that demonstrates a serious engagement with craft, so polish your sample carefully—revision matters more than publication credits. If you are applying for a scholarship, such as the TCLF Full Scholarship, indicate your interest clearly in the application and note that financial need is considered alongside artistic merit. Because enrollment is capped, early submission is advised. If accepted, be prepared for an immersive schedule: daily workshops, afternoon craft sessions, and evening readings. The setting is rustic and communal, so bring comfortable clothing and a willingness to engage in informal conversations that often prove as valuable as the formal instruction. For questions not addressed on the website, email the conference director directly—responses are typically prompt and helpful.

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OpenDeadline · 2027-01-01