Raw Writing: Generating New Material

"First drafts are about profusion, not perfection," says instructor Daniel Ari. "That's what Raw Writing is all about. We set our expectations aside so we can get down to creating without worrying whether it's 'good.' Poetry, fiction, memoir, dialogue, or fragments—we find a starting point and go."

Each class session begins with a warm-up exercise and includes two to three writing prompts to spark your inspiration and allow you to experiment with a curious, playful mind. Prompts might revolve around subject matter, style, word choice, or other variables.

With the support of these "assignments," you're free to draft while your inner critic leaves you alone for a while. If you create something you like, it's your innate brilliance shining through; if you're not crazy about the results—blame the exercise and move on to the next one. After five weeks, you'll have no fewer than a dozen first drafts that you can revisit and rework as you see fit.

"Students will have the opportunity to share what they write with the group (always optional), and feedback is kept to appreciations," Daniel says. "By letting yourself write raw, you'll overcome obstacles to explore new territory, hone your craft, and grow your storehouse of material."