Advanced Creative Nonfiction

This is a writing workshop in which students focus on producing creative nonfiction worthy of publication.

What is creative nonfiction? The best definition is simply: true stories, well told.

The term encompasses a variety of forms: narrative nonfiction, literary journalism, memoir, personal essay, and the cousin of poetry often referred to as lyrical nonfiction.

Students are encouraged to experiment with forms and styles that are new to them.

This course follows a workshop format.

The instruction students get is in highly detailed feedback, both verbal and written, in response to submitted work.

The instructor leads the discussion and offers pointers on topics such as structure and voice.

We adhere to a strict standard of using only material that is true.

With this understanding, we borrow tools of fiction: techniques of voice, character development, plot, scene, and dialogue.

The course is appropriate for fiction and nonfiction writers, poets, journalists, and students of these disciplines who are keen to improve their craft.