Writing On A Long Train Ride ~ For Free?

I’ve written here before about Writers Residencies.

Image courtesy of Subhadip Mukherjee ~ http://www.sxc.hu/profile/subhadipin

Basically, a writer packs up and goes somewhere to relax and focus and Write…

And, now, Amtrak (in the USA) is accepting applications for [according to The Wire] “…one free round-trip ticket on a long-distance train, complete with a sleeper car that has a bed and a desk [and outlets] and ‘a window to watch the American countryside roll by for inspiration’.”

The Wire also says:

“Neither the application nor the terms and conditions say that food will be provided, but I actually traveled in an Amtrak sleeper car last year and meals were included as part of the ticket. A ticket that I, like an idiot, paid for. If only I had known!”

One last bit from The Wire:

“While you have until March 31 to apply, it’s best to do so as soon as possible, as entries as being judged on a rolling basis starting March 17.”

Amtrak’s site says:

“Routes will be determined based on availability.”

Also, they stipulate they’re only accepting “…Legal residents of the 48 contiguous United States and the District of Columbia…“.

They say they’ll accept “up to” 24 writers…

And, Amtrak also says:

“A passion for writing and an aspiration to travel with Amtrak for inspiration are the sole criteria for selection. Both emerging and established writers will be considered.”

One last interesting fact:

“Residencies will be anywhere from 2-5 days, with exceptions for special projects.”

I told my Best Friend that the only way I could take time off from my writing to go on a long train ride to write would be if I knew, absolutely, that I would live to 101 :-)
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