Reflecting on death and dying isn’t easy.

We might do it when we have a terminal diagnosis. We might take care of practical matters—clearing out the garage, writing a will, financial planning—but when it comes to tending the inside of us, we hesitate.

But we don’t have to.

In this circle, we explore the themes of death and dying together. We write in response to simple prompts that invite us beneath the surface and into the truths of our lives. We reflect on the insights of those who have written and thought deeply about death and dying. And we make space for conversation and optional sharing throughout.

The intention of this circle is grounded and direct:

to know ourselves, to love better, and to ensure that when the time comes, we have lived consciously and fully.

No writing experience is necessary or expected.

Our purpose is not to create art but to use writing as a practical tool for inner exploration and connection.

This writing circle is for anyone who…

…wants to navigate life with an open heart and clear eyes.
…carries a recent loss or long-held grief.
…hopes to strengthen their capacity to be present with others who are dying.
…is curious how acknowledging our mortality can change how we inhabit our days.

“Whatever fears I might have carried into Nancy’s circle, her warmth and wisdom dissolved them early on. The prompts and teachings led me to discoveries about how I want to live. With grace, Nancy leads the way by making the uncomfortable comfortable.”
—Marilyn Weisenberg, Portland, OR

ABOUT NANCY LINNON

Nancy has been teaching writing and facilitating groups for almost thirty years. She has published in several literary journals and magazines and began her career as a journalist for U.S. News & World Report. She holds a master’s from Brown University and an MFA from Antioch University.

She began her studies to be an end-of-life doula—someone who accompanies a person on their journey with death—in Ireland. She is certified by the International Association of End-of-Life Doulas (INELDA).

Many people have remarked that her work as an end-of-life doula is a departure from teaching writing, but she sees an organic throughline.

Death is a part of life waiting to be known—as are the multitude of stories within us.