THE WAY IN: Five Weeks to Writing Freedom
July 30-August 31, 2012 (5 weeks)
In this class, we will be experimenting with different storytelling methods
using objects, memory, dialogue, historical facts and other inspirations.
Through these explorations, we will be touching on the elements of structure,
rhythm, word choice, and metaphor. Each week will feature themed "immersions" (part lecture / part musing
exploration) that will act as conversation openers around various aspects of
writing. In addition, prompts and exercises throughout the week will
stretch you to initiate new pieces or investigate current ones. Below is a general curriculum for the course.
Week 1
Naming the Beast
This week we'll be making a list of
anecdotes, memories, story fragments, and other narratives we want to explore more
deeply throughout the next 5 weeks. Exercises will include honing in on the
"why" of these stories, i.e. locating the personal
meaning and motivation in telling them, as well as prompts that encourage a deeper
investigation in the turning points that these narratives
inspired.
Week 2
Enemy Traps
For this week, we'll choose a selection of
stories from our list and begin writing. We will investigate the places where we get
stuck or where the stories veer off course, and work on dismantling the obstacles
that keep us from moving forward. Exercise and prompts will focus on locating moments
in our pieces where our attention or energy wanes and coming up with ways to refresh
and reinvigorate our stores.
Week 3
Feeding Frenzy
This week we'll be playing and
free-associating using a wide range of exercises that will have us accessing our
powers of description. There will be short bursts of assignments to encourage
experimentation. We will then narrow our gaze to one or two of our chosen narratives
and apply these new skills in extending and contextualizing our
writing.
Week 4
Entries and Exits
During this week, we will explore different ways of entering
into and exiting out of our narratives, which will help move us away from our
preconceived structures and outcomes. Prompts this week will introduce new access
points to our work, and will challenge our experience of how we begin and end our
pieces.
Week 5
Freedom to Roam
This final week will give participants an opportunity to
synthesize their learnings. We will return to some of the narratives from our
original list or begin new ones. There will also be additional personalized editorial
support this week to help refine the final pieces and, if there is interest, to
prepare them for submission.
Cost for the class is $325. Visit the "register" page to sign up.
Cost for the class is $325. Visit the "register" page to sign up.
