In a Word: Jumpstart Your Imagination with Everyday Words

Read and discuss examples of flash fiction, memoir, and essay inspired by single, everyday words. We will explore the different ways writers use their chosen word as muse - to spark memory, extend metaphor, illuminate concept, create rhythm and meaning through repetition, and more. Using words generated in class, you'll have the opportunity to try out those ideas through writing exercises and come away with one or more drafts of short prose pieces to polish at home.

Examples of published work by Joy Harjo, Julie Marie Wade, Octavio Solis, and others will guide us and provide a range of voices and techniques we can discuss. Some of these techniques will include using your word as the anchor in an extended metaphor, exploring a web of word-associations, and using repetition intentionally.

The class will include reading brief examples together (materials provided in class) and instructor-led group discussion, interspersed with writing exercises. We will use brainstorming, mind mapping, and individual in-class writing to generate ideas. By the end of the workshop, you'll have at least one draft of a prose piece that you can continue to work on and receive one round of instructor feedback (asynchronous). There will be opportunities to share our in-class writing with each other in a supportive environment (optional).

Details

• Skill level: All levels

Class Policies

Instructors or Guides