Creative Nonfiction & Memoir -- Level II

Course Description

In this class, we form a community of writers and artists. By participating in this class, we commit to creating a supportive and productive atmosphere for writers of every experience level. In addition, our community extends further than the classroom and maintain its secure, supportive and inspiring nature by preserving the rights, safety, and honor of all cultures and identities that may or may not be present with us in the classroom. This course is designed for writers who desire to be or are actively engaged in writing a memoir, have some knowledge of the craft of memoir writing, and have either: (a) begun at least three chapters of a full-length memoir or (b) begun at least three essays of a connected series of personal essays. We will study key elements of craft including, but not limited to, creating narrative drive and tension, writing scenes vs. exposition, integrating research, developing character, dealing with "truth" and memory. Each week, we will workshop student manuscripts, discuss craft topics, and analyze exemplary memoirs and personal essays. Each student has two to three opportunities to share their work in class. By the end of the course, in addition to workshopped material, students will leave with a greater understanding of how to develop an engaging, structured, well-written memoir. 8 sessions, Mondays 10:30 am - 1:30 pm Eastern. No class Monday October 6th. Payment due in full before class begins by Venmo, Zelle, Apple Pay, or PayPal. Minimum nonrefundable deposit by Venmo to @Aimee-Christian to save your spot. Please contact me for payment plan or aid if needed.