Title: WRITING CREATIVE NON-FICTION

PRQ:

The writing of essays or a book chapter in a narrative fashion, with the aim of producing non-fiction that reads like a novel and could be submitted for publication.  This is a workshop-style class for writing non-fiction. Students have the choice of writing three extensive essays in the style of The New Yorker, or the first chapter of a prospective book, with a general outline for chapters to follow. Class time will often be provided for writing, but students must expect to spend considerable time outside class on research and writing.

Imagination, drive, critical thinking skills, and a willingness to learn from critiques. Students can choose between writing three long essays (total 25-35 pages) drawn from observations, interviews and research; or the writing of the first chapter of a prospective book, and a general outline of chapters to follow. The goal is the development of creative writing skills in a distinct voice, and creating a body of work that can potentially be submitted for publication.

Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life, Anne Lamott; Biting the Dust: The Wild Ride and Dark Romance of the Rodeo Cowboy and the American West, Dirk Johnson.