Most of us who write want to do more than simply entertain our readers. We want to move them emotionally, open their minds, transform their attitudes, and possibly inspire them to change the world.
To achieve this in memoir, we must be honest and vulnerable. In fiction, we must create characters who are flawed and complex. And in all genres we must avoid sentimentality and pat answers, instead exploring themes and issues that really matter to the reader.
Instructor Elaine Beale says, “The best writers create stories that resonate long after a reader has finished the final page. To do this, you have to be willing to go the places that may feel uncomfortable or complicated, to be both brave and curious. Above all, you need to leave behind the inner critic or perfectionist and allow yourself to take risks on the page.”
In this class, we’ll create a supportive and inclusive environment where participants can take risks and go deeper. Using prompts and exercises, you’ll be invited to explore what might challenge or scare you. You’ll be encouraged to embrace your own voice and your own unique perspective. Quirky, different, raw, and experimental are all welcome here.
There’ll be weekly homework to inspire you to keep writing between classes, and opportunities for both in-class and written feedback from the instructor.
“At the end of this five-week class,” says Elaine, “it’s my goal that participants get far more comfortable with literary risk-taking so that they can put their most authentic voice and stories on the page.”
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.
Elaine Beale has published two novels, the most recent of which, Another Life Altogether, was featured in Oprah Magazine and received praise from the Boston Globe, Lambda Literary, and Publishers Weekly, among others. Elaine was the winner of the 2007 Poets & Writers California Writers Exchange Award and has an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of British Columbia. Her latest book is Write for Wellness, a guide to using expressive writing to promote emotional and physical health.