Your Singular Life

“Writing memoir is like being a miner, shining a light into the nooks and crannies of our lives,” says instructor Katharine Harer. “We think we know what we'll find, but we're often surprised by the depth and complexity we uncover.”

In this half-day class, you’ll practice some of the fundamentals of memoir writing: re-creation of a specific place and time using sensory details, addition of moments of reflection and acknowledgement, and the creation of short scenes. Katharine will show you different ways to structure memoir pieces, and you’ll learn about the important role of the narrator – you – in guiding a reader through your lived experience.

Katharine will bring in examples of memoir pieces that you’ll read and talk about, examining how and why each piece works, and you’ll be inspired by the work of other memoir writers, such as Jesmyn Ward, Ann Patchett, and Ocean Vuong. You’ll write your own short pieces in class and be given a variety of prompts for writing at home. Katharine says, “As you work with these tools and techniques, you’ll learn how to illuminate your experiences, helping you find your way into your singular life."  

About The Writing Salon's In-Person Classes

In-person class schedules are subject to sudden change or cancellation due to Covid. We will communicate any course changes to you as quickly as possible. Masking, social distancing, and other Covid measures will be enforced in accordance with local guidelines. Before your class meets, you'll receive an email from The Writing Salon with more information about your class. If you have any questions about in-person learning, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at hello@writingsalons.com.