AWP Conference Explores Balancing Creativity and Caregiving

Writers find community and inspiration at annual literary gathering

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The upcoming Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP) Conference & Bookfair in Baltimore is set to explore the intersection of creative work and personal responsibilities, with a focus on the challenges and unexpected inspirations that come with balancing artistic pursuits and caregiving. Writers are increasingly acknowledging the complexities of navigating family life alongside their writing ambitions, and the conference will provide a hub for connection, support, and the sharing of experiences.

Why it matters

The AWP conference reflects a broader trend in contemporary literature, with more writers exploring themes of family, loss, and the emotional labor of caregiving. This shift towards more honest and nuanced portrayals of modern life is significant, as it challenges traditional narratives and provides a platform for underrepresented voices.

The details

Many writers find themselves struggling to carve out dedicated writing time while also navigating the demands of caregiving for children, aging parents, or both. Writer Elline Lipkin emphasizes the importance of claiming time for writing and communicating this commitment to family. Building a strong support system, through writing workshops and community events, can be a lifeline for writers juggling multiple responsibilities.

  • The AWP Conference & Bookfair will be held in Baltimore, Maryland from March 4-7, 2026.
  • Lipkin's new book, "Girl in a Forest," which reimagines the story of Gretel through the lens of motherhood and grief, will be featured at the conference.

The players

Elline Lipkin

A writer who has navigated the complexities of balancing creative work and caregiving, and whose new book "Girl in a Forest" explores themes of family and grief.

Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP)

The organization that hosts the annual AWP Conference & Bookfair, the largest gathering of writers, teachers, students, editors, and publishers in the United States.

Anesa Miller

An author who will be presenting research at AWP 2026 on the geographic concentration of publishing power in New York City and its impact on literary representation.

Nancy Reddy

A writer who is hosting a happy hour event at AWP 2026 to foster community and connection among attendees.

Book Drop MKE

An organization co-hosting a happy hour event at AWP 2026 to provide a space for informal networking and the sharing of experiences among writers.

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What they’re saying

“The 'writing in the snatched moments' trope is prevalent, but can be frustrating. I describe writing in the margins of life – jotting down ideas during school pick-up or at events – but also emphasize the importance of claiming time and demonstrating the value of writing to family.”

— Elline Lipkin, Writer (newsy-today.com)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, Grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

Several events are planned at AWP 2026 to foster community and connection among writers, including a happy hour hosted by Nancy Reddy and Book Drop MKE on March 4th at Pratt Street Ale House.

The takeaway

The AWP Conference & Bookfair provides a unique opportunity for writers to connect with peers, editors, and publishers, and to explore the intersection of creative work and the realities of caregiving. By building a strong support system and claiming dedicated writing time, writers can navigate the complexities of modern life and continue to produce meaningful, nuanced literary works.