Creative Writing 101

“Have you wanted to test the waters of creative writing but don’t know where to begin, or how?" asks instructor Kathy Garlick. “Have you waded into those waters before, but it’s been a while?”

In this class, you will be guided surely and safely into the writing experience. There’s no pressure to work on a specific project or even settle on a genre you prefer. The idea is to explore—see with a writer’s eyes, spark ideas, gain confidence, and try out fun writing exercises.

Kathy will build each class around helpful writing tools and strategies. You will complete a range of exercises to learn the most essential parts of creative writing, including creating vivid images, telling an engrossing story, and building well-rounded characters.

You’ll also read and learn from writers such as Jhumpa Lahiri, Zadie Smith and Fanny Howe. Kathy says, “In writing we’re always trying to find something honest, something hidden under the trap door of the skull. Our reactions to other writers can open that door.”

Discussions and collaboration will be an important part of this class. The sharing of your writing will be up to you, and everyone will respond with a supportive and open spirit.