Creative Nonfiction 101: Shape Stories from Your Own Life

“I love creative nonfiction because the stories and reflections are drawn from a writer’s own life,” says instructor Ann Guy. “An authentic writer’s voice comes through the page creating an intimate and meaningful way for the writer and reader to connect.”

In this class, through weekly, prompt-driven writing exercises, we’ll sift through our memories, everyday experiences, and preoccupations with a sense of adventure and curiosity, noticing the subjects that hold heat for us.

To make our stories vivid and captivating, we’ll learn about essential craft elements and practice applying them to our own lives, to the people we’ve known, and the places we’ve been: such as a bustling flea market where customers haggle over wares (setting) or a middle-aged man who has conversations with his deceased father (character). We’ll work on turning the scenes of our lives into compelling drama on the page. For guidance and direction, we’ll read examples by Garnette Cadogan, Elissa Washuta, and Maggie Nelson. 

Ann will provide suggestions for you to stay engaged with your writing between class meetings. You’ll also have the option to share your work during class and receive light and encouraging feedback from Ann and from the group. 

By the end of five weeks, you’ll have an understanding of key craft elements in creative nonfiction, at least 2-3 starts for fresh creative pieces, and a newfound sense of play and discovery as a writer of creative nonfiction.

About The Writing Salon's In-Person Classes

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.