Finding Your Voice in Nonfiction
Schools of Public Engagement: Writing Program
CRN: 1654
Credits: 3
"Fiction is obliged to stick to possibilities. Truth isn't," wrote Mark Twain. His words have even more resonance today, when actual events are harder to believe than the inventions of a novelist. Nonfiction offers limitless creative possibilities for contemporary writers willing to observe our complex world and translate their experiences into dynamic prose full of insight and provocative ideas. This workshop is for writers of personal essays, memoirs, humor, travel, and op-ed pieces. Exercises and writing prompts are designed to foster a unique voice and style. The instructor offers guidance in using examples and anecdotes, incorporating dialogue, scene-setting, and other techniques common in fiction writing. All writers receive supportive critiques from their peers. For inspiration, we read and discuss exemplary work by Joan Didion, David Sedaris, Maureen Dowd, Zadie Smith, Leslie Jamison, and E.B. White. Print and online publishing markets are analyzed, with tips about submission strategies and marketing suggestions for publishable work. Prerequisite: a composition or basic writing class.
College: Schools of Public Engagement (NS)
Department: Writing Program (NWRW)
Campus: New York City (GV)
Course Format: Seminar (R)
Modality: In-Person
Max Enrollment: 18
Add/Drop Deadline: September 12, 2022 (Monday)
Online Withdrawal Deadline: December 18, 2022 (Sunday)
Seats Available: Yes
Status: Closed*
* Status information is updated every few minutes. The status of this course may have changed since the last update. Open seats may have restrictions that will prevent some students from registering. Updated: 12:34pm EST 2/7/2023