our mission

The Porch inspires, educates and connects writers and readers of all ages and stages through classes and literary events.

We’re writers, first and foremost.

We’re crazy about books and the literary life, and we believe that writing is for everyone.

Why The Porch? A porch is a flexible space, defined yet open, for both quiet contemplation and lively gatherings. On porches, we share our stories and histories. And we build new ones. 
WHAT STUDENTS SAY

Writing is often depicted as a lonely pursuit. But the Porch turns writing into less of a hermitage and more of a pilgrimage. My peers in the novel workshop were all on the same journey, with different reasons and different steps we each individually had to take. The Porch not only equips you for this journey with tangible writing tools but also provides a community to guide and encourage you along the way.

Ginny Boehm

what we do

Founded in 2014, The Porch was dreamed up by two writers who longed for a space dedicated to the art and craft of the written word. A place for connection, study, discovery, delight. Building on the rich literary traditions of Nashville and the South, The Porch joins other local cultural organizations in growing a vibrant creative community and diverse arts landscape. We aim to ensure that the art of writing will thrive here and anywhere writers’ voices are waiting to be heard. 

We're also dedicated to bringing notable writers and poets to Nashville to teach and give readings. Jericho Brown, Rebecca Gayle Howell, Maggie Smith, Silas House, Camille Dungy, Megan Stielstra, Hanif Abdurraqib, Sherrie Flick, Keith Leonard, Jamie Quatro, and Beth Ann Fennelly have been our guests in our first five years of programming.

in the press

The Hollywood strikes are over. What does this mean for Tennesseans?

WPLN - This Is Nashville
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Write All About It

NATIVE MAGAZINE
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Meet Susannah Felts & Katie McDougall at The Porch

STYLE BLUEPRINT
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Artist as Leader: Podcast

Artist as Leader
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Interview with Katie McDougall and Susannah Felts, Cofounders of The Porch, Nashville’s Literary Center.

Hippocampus Magazine
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A New Anthology Amplifies the Voices of Nashville Immigrants and Refugees

Nashville Scene
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Pod Goals: Versify Weaves Simple, Heroic Tales With Original Poetry

Nashville Scene
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