Free Your Creativity: Using Constraints to Generate New Writing

“The creation of something new is not accomplished by the intellect but by play.”

- Carl Jung

For a creative twist, some writers impose unique conditions on their work as they craft a piece. Instructor Kimberly Lee says, “Dr. Seuss wrote Green Eggs and Ham on a bet—that he couldn’t write an entire book using only 50 words. Or imagine trying this: Write about a trek through the desert without using the words ‘sand,’ ‘cactus,’ ‘water,’ ‘sun,’ and ‘heat.’” Challenging ourselves in this fun way can have an oddly liberating effect, leading to rich, resonant writing.

In this generative class, we’ll look at examples by writers who use these techniques, then engage with inventive writing exercises, freeing our own imaginations. During class sessions, we’ll explore how constraints may inspire both poetry and prose. We’ll be surprised by the ideas that spring forth—and thrilled with the original results!

The class will include a taste of SoulCollage®, an expressive arts method through which we’ll use creative constraints to make collages, then write in dynamic with the visual material using specified prompts. “Artistic ability is not required, but curiosity is celebrated,” says Kimberly.

Participants will have the opportunity to share their work with the group—if they choose—and receive positive, uplifting feedback.

Writers will leave the class with fresh, generative ways to approach their current and future projects, as well as several short pieces of writing that can be further refined or transformed into the beginnings of a larger work.

*Please click on the "Class Prep" tab below to find out what to bring to class.

About The Writing Salon's Online Zoom Classes

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.