Writing Creative Nonfiction: Foundational Concepts, Skills, and Practice

This course concentrates on the craft of writing nonfiction, the art of writing the literature of real life, "true stories, well told." It includes popular subgenres such as narrative nonfiction, memoir, the personal essay, travel writing, humor, criticism, nature and science writing, and literary journalism. The primary focus will be dynamic storytelling techniques to be used in virtually every sub-genre of creative non-fiction. Students will later apply these skills in courses devoted to various nonfiction sub-genres, such as personal essay and memoir. Class discussions will emphasize essential writing skills and professional approaches to research, taking advantage of a supportive workshop format. Students will express their ideas about both craft and content, and workshop their writing with a view toward professional publication.