Creative Nonfiction Master Class

This master class provides a “literary laboratory” for experienced nonfiction writers to workshop their writing, advance their craft, delve deeply into their themes, take risks, and tackle the all-important revision process. Over the course of the nine-week session, students will have three opportunities to submit up to 10 pages (2,500 words, double-spaced) for group critique, with one submission a revision of a previously-workshopped piece. In the spirit of collaboration, students will be expected to read classmates' work in advance of every class and to offer feedback and constructive criticism. There will also be brief in-class readings and exercises on specific advanced craft elements such as narrative voice, revealing character, POV, pacing, and more.

Instructor Kerry Muir says, “In addition to getting focused feedback on their work, writers will come away from the course with a better understanding of key craft elements and how to put them to use in their nonfiction--whether they're working on a book-length memoir, a personal essay, a piece of literary journalism, or a creative nonfiction hybrid.”

She adds, “Because many writers fear revision, I’m also hoping to help them to embrace and even fall in love with the rewriting process. After all, it’s such a critical part of writing if you want to get your work out into the world.”

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, over the course of the class, participants will become part of a supportive community of writers they can turn to in the future for support, advice and encouragement.

*This workshop is for writers who have completed memoir or personal essay classes at The Writing Salon or elsewhere. Because of the nature of the workshop process, enrollment will be capped at 9 to ensure that ample attention is given to each writer and their work.

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.