Writing Communities

Fiction Writing Communities in Savannah, Georgia

Find active fiction writing groups, venues, and literary events in Savannah, Georgia. Connect with local writers and grow your craft.

Writer-Friendly Venues in Savannah

The Collins Quarter

Bull Street, Historic District

This Australian-inspired cafe offers a sophisticated atmosphere perfect for writers seeking inspiration. The exposed brick walls and vintage decor create an intimate setting, while the excellent coffee keeps creativity flowing. Popular with locals and visitors alike, it strikes the perfect balance between bustling energy and focused work environment.

Cost: Best times:

Foxy Loxy Cafe

Bull Street, Starland District

A beloved local institution housed in a converted Greyhound bus station, Foxy Loxy is a writer's paradise. The eclectic, artsy atmosphere with mismatched furniture and local artwork creates an inspiring environment. Known for supporting local artists and hosting literary events, it's where Savannah's creative community gathers.

Cost: Best times:

Live Oak Public Libraries - Bull Street Branch

Bull Street, Downtown

The main downtown library offers dedicated quiet study areas and a beautiful historic setting. The building itself is architecturally stunning, providing inspiration while you work. Multiple floors offer different atmospheres, from completely silent study rooms to collaborative spaces.

Cost: Best times:

E. Shaver, Bookseller

Bull Street, Historic District

One of the South's finest independent bookstores, housed in a beautiful 1800s building. The cozy reading nooks and literary atmosphere make it perfect for writers seeking inspiration. Browse rare books and local authors' works, then settle into a quiet corner to write surrounded by literary history.

Cost: Best times:

Creative Coast Coworking

Whitaker Street, Downtown

Savannah's premier coworking space specifically designed for creative professionals. Offers both open collaborative areas and quiet private spaces. Regular networking events connect writers with other creatives, and the professional atmosphere helps maintain productivity.

Cost: Best times:

Gallery Espresso

Bull Street, Historic District

A charming European-style cafe that doubles as an art gallery. The rotating local art exhibitions provide constant visual inspiration, while the intimate size ensures a cozy writing environment. Known for excellent espresso and pastries that fuel long writing sessions.

Cost: Best times:

Forsyth Park

Gaston Street, Historic District

Savannah's crown jewel offers numerous secluded spots perfect for outdoor writing. The iconic fountain, ancient oak trees draped in Spanish moss, and well-maintained gardens provide endless inspiration. Multiple benches and the park's cafe offer comfortable writing spots with natural beauty.

Cost: Best times:

Bonaventure Cemetery

Bonaventure Road, Thunderbolt

Made famous by 'Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil,' this hauntingly beautiful cemetery offers unparalleled inspiration for writers, especially those working on Southern Gothic or historical fiction. The moss-draped oaks and elaborate Victorian monuments create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else.

Cost: Best times:

Sentient Bean

Park Avenue, Forsyth Park area

A community-focused coffee shop with a commitment to social consciousness and local art. The spacious interior with high ceilings and large windows creates an airy writing environment. Regular poetry readings and book clubs make it a hub for Savannah's literary community.

Cost: Best times:

Savannah Coffee Roasters

Bull Street, Historic District

A local roastery with multiple locations, known for exceptional coffee and writer-friendly policies. The original location offers a quiet back room perfect for extended writing sessions. The owner is supportive of local writers and often hosts literary events.

Cost: Best times:

Wormhole Coffee Bar

Habersham Street, Historic District

A quirky, science-fiction themed coffee shop that appeals to genre writers and creative types. The unique decor and themed drinks create a playful atmosphere that can spark creativity. Despite the fun theme, it maintains a respectful environment for writers to work.

Cost: Best times:

Savannah Riverfront

River Street Historic District

The cobblestone streets and river views provide inspiration for writers, especially those working on historical fiction. Multiple benches along the river offer peaceful writing spots, while the nearby cafes provide backup indoor options. The area's rich history permeates the atmosphere.

Cost: Best times:

Savannah's Vibrant Writing Community: A Guide for Fiction Writers

Savannah's rich literary heritage and artistic atmosphere make it a natural home for thriving writing communities. From the historic squares to cozy coffee shops, writers gather regularly to share their craft, offer feedback, and build lasting connections.

Sample Writing Groups:

Savannah Scribes

Second and fourth Saturdays, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

General fiction critique group for all genres

How to find: Listed on Chatham County Library events calendar and Meetup.com

Established group welcoming writers at all levels for manuscript critique and craft development

Midnight in the Garden Writers

Every Wednesday, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Mystery, thriller, and suspense fiction

How to find: Facebook group 'Savannah Mystery Writers' and word-of-mouth through local bookstores

Genre-specific group inspired by Savannah's mysterious atmosphere and literary heritage

Lowcountry Literary Circle

First Thursday of each month, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Literary fiction and Southern literature

How to find: Promoted through SCAD's continuing education program and local arts organizations

Focuses on literary craft and writers exploring Southern themes and settings

Historic District Writers Workshop

Biweekly Sundays, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

All genres welcome, emphasis on writing exercises and prompts

How to find: Flyers at independent bookstores and coffee shops, Facebook events

Casual group combining writing practice with peer feedback in a relaxed atmosphere

Savannah Romance Writers

Third Saturday monthly, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Romance fiction in all subgenres

How to find: Connected to Romance Writers of America chapter, promoted through genre-specific online communities

Supportive community for romance writers focusing on craft, industry trends, and market knowledge

Savannah's writing community reflects the city's welcoming spirit and appreciation for storytelling. Don't hesitate to reach out - most groups are eager to welcome new members who share their passion for the written word. Your unique voice and perspective will enrich whichever group you choose to join.

Writing Events and Opportunities in Savannah, Georgia

Savannah's rich literary heritage and vibrant arts community provide numerous opportunities for writers of all levels. From university programs to historic venues, the city offers year-round writing events that celebrate both emerging and established voices.

Annual Events:

Savannah Book Festival

Type:

Venue: Various downtown locations including Jepson Center and Telfair Museums

Cost: Free admission to most events

One of the Southeast's premier literary events, featuring nationally recognized authors, panels, and workshops

SCAD Writing Workshop Series

Type:

Venue: SCAD campus locations

Cost: $150-400 depending on workshop length

Savannah College of Art and Design hosts quarterly intensive workshops covering fiction, poetry, screenwriting, and publishing

Recurring Opportunities:

Live Oak Public Libraries Writers Circle

Type:

Venue: Bull Street Library and regional branches

Cost: Free

Monthly critique groups and bi-weekly craft workshops for fiction and memoir writers

E. Shaver Bookseller Author Series

Type:

Venue: Historic downtown bookstore on Bull Street

Cost: Free, book sales encouraged

Monthly readings featuring local and touring authors, with Q&A sessions

Savannah Writers Group

Type:

Venue: Rotates between coffee shops and community centers

Cost: Free

Weekly meetups for critique, accountability, and craft discussions across all genres

Finding Current Information:

Primary Sources:

  • Connect Savannah magazine events calendar
  • Savannah Morning News arts section
  • SCAD community education website
  • Live Oak Public Libraries event listings

Social Media:

Follow @SavannahWriters, local bookstore pages, and library social accounts

Practical Tips:

Timing:

Most events run September through May, with lighter summer programming

Costs:

Many events are free or low-cost ($10-25), with intensive workshops ranging $100-400

Registration:

Popular workshops fill quickly; register early or join waiting lists

Parking:

Downtown events may require paid parking; library events typically have free lots

Local Writing Resources

Independent Bookstores

The Book Lady Bookstore

Historic downtown bookstore that actively promotes local Savannah authors through readings, signings, and dedicated local author sections.

E. Shaver, Bookseller

Established 1976, this Madison Square bookstore hosts author events and maintains strong relationships with regional writers.

Libraries

Live Oak Public Libraries - Bull Street Branch

Main branch offering extensive fiction collections, writer workshops, and meeting spaces for writing groups.

Georgia Historical Society Library

Valuable resource for historical fiction writers with extensive archives and research materials specific to Savannah and Georgia history.

Literary Publications

Savannah Literary Journal

Annual publication featuring fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction from local and regional writers.

The Georgia Review

University of Georgia's literary magazine that frequently features Georgia-based writers and accepts submissions from Savannah authors.

Writing Organizations

Savannah Writers' Group

Active community organization offering critique groups, workshops, and networking events for fiction writers of all levels.

Georgia Writers Association - Coastal Chapter

Regional chapter providing educational programs, contests, and publishing opportunities for fiction writers.

University Programs

Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) - Writing Department

Offers community workshops and continuing education courses in creative writing and fiction through their Sequential Art and Writing programs.

Practical Information for Writers

Savannah's Literary Heritage

Savannah stands as one of America's most literarily enchanting cities, where Spanish moss drapes over centuries-old oaks like nature's own Gothic novel. The city's atmospheric squares and antebellum mansions have nurtured remarkable literary talent, from Flannery O'Connor's piercing Southern Gothic masterpieces to Conrad Aiken's lyrical poetry. The cobblestone streets that once echoed with O'Connor's childhood footsteps continue to inspire contemporary writers drawn to Savannah's intoxicating blend of beauty and mystery. John Berendt's 'Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil' transformed the city into a literary destination, proving that Savannah's stories are as captivating as its architecture. The city's independent bookstores, like the beloved E. Shaver, serve as literary salons where readers gather among towering shelves in Victorian parlors. Bonaventure Cemetery, with its haunting sculptures and moss-draped monuments, remains a pilgrimage site for literature lovers seeking the Gothic atmosphere that permeates Savannah's literary DNA. Annual book festivals and literary walking tours celebrate this rich heritage, ensuring that new generations discover the magic that makes Savannah a living, breathing poem where every corner whispers stories waiting to be told.

Notable Authors

Flannery O'Connor

Master of Southern Gothic fiction, Pulitzer Prize winner

Notable Works:

  • Wise Blood
  • A Good Man Is Hard to Find

Conrad Aiken

Pulitzer Prize-winning poet and novelist

Notable Works:

  • Blue Voyage
  • Ushant

John Berendt

Brought international literary attention to Savannah

Notable Works:

  • Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil

Literary Landmarks

Flannery O'Connor Childhood Home

Mercer Williams House

Bonaventure Cemetery

Inspiring Quotes

"Savannah is a beautiful woman with a dirty face."

Lady Astor

"The past isn't dead. It isn't even past."

William Faulkner

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