Body Narratives

“My body knew things my mouth and my mind couldn't, or maybe wouldn't, express.”
― Kiese Laymon, Heavy: An American Memoir

“Some of our most defining stories are about the things that have happened to our bodies,” says instructor Jennifer Lewis. “Whether adolescence, childbirth, aging or gender transitioning, each of us has experienced transformations that have shaped our character.”

In this five-week class, we will practice writing from a place of embodiment to release stories held within the body or stories we have told ourselves about our bodies. During in-class writing exercises, we will learn how to inject more body awareness into our writing to create richer passages and build more meaningful connections with our readers.

For guidance and inspiration, we will read and discuss poems, short stories and novel excerpts that focus on different aspects of the body such as the five senses and body connection and disassociation, as well as essays on body dysmorphia and the body positivity movement. While we will read work in multiple genres, participants can write in any genre they choose.

Jennifer says, "The class is great for beginners who want to generate new work as well as seasoned writers who want to layer and expand more dynamic possibilities."

About The Writing Salon's Remote Classes

Due to concerns about the spread of COVID-19, The Writing Salon is running all classes in a remote learning format. You will be able to participate in live class meetings via Zoom videoconference. To attend classes, you'll need a phone, tablet or computer and access to the internet. You can participate in the class from wherever you'd like, whether on your living room couch or in your office. Before your class meets, you'll receive an email from The Writing Salon with more information about Zoom and your remote class. If you have any questions about remote learning, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at hello@writingsalons.com.