Essays in their myriad forms are everywhere - blogs, books of poetry, newspapers, digital magazines, and emerging publications of every kind. It could be argued that the essay is our most contemporary form, combining the immediacy and intimacy of a personal voice with the exploration of broader themes. Essays can push the culture into its most vulnerable corners, shining the light of reality into dark places that some would prefer remain hidden. Still, it is the essayist's job to reveal--not necessarily shock--the reader with the truth. In this class, we will read authors who inform our own efforts, and there will be ample opportunity for workshop and generative writing