In this generative seminar, writers will learn strategies for writing nonfiction stories on family: research and reporting, ideation, pacing, narration, organization, voice and tone, and creating an ensemble of "characters" who are specific to our origin stories but recognizable to any reader. We’ll break down family memoirs into the who, where, and when, making the unwieldy task of writing about those we know more manageable.
This two-hour course, perfect for writers with all levels of experience, will include three in-class prompts that build on each other, a PDF handout with text and illustrations, and a short listening exercise and reading from the instructor and author of Monsoon Mansion, a family memoir on love, loss, and survival, described by Susan Tekulve as "a woven family tale that is both delicate and electric."
Class meetings will be held over video chat, using Zoom accessed from your private class page. While you can use Zoom from your browser, we recommend downloading the desktop client so you have access to all platform features.
Check out this page for details about payment plans and discount opportunities.
COURSE TAKEAWAYS:
- A deeper understanding of how to effectively write about family
- Prompts, exercises, and handouts students can use to generate new essays or longform projects
- 10% discount on all future Catapult classes
COURSE EXPECTATIONS:
Students in this class will not submit their writing for feedback from the instructor or their classmates. The reading assignment is optional. Students should use pen and paper/notebook for the three in-class exercises, and must be able to view a shared slide presentation for the duration of the class. All class exercises can be taken home as templates for future brainstorms, writing, editing, etc.