Whether you're working on a book-length memoir or a series of essays, this class will guide you from raw memory or idea to a polished piece in twelve weeks. We'll move through a structured progression of writing exercises and assignments inspired by six weekly craft talks. Topics will include: point of view, voice, scene, character, sensory detail, setting, and revision.

The second half of the course is given over to exhaustive workshopping, during which each student will have the opportunity to showcase their work. This is an intensive class for serious writers, but students should expect a supportive, inclusive, anti-racist, and energetic virtual experience. If you cannot commit yourself to the full twelve-week plan, please reconsider whether this is the right class for you, and explore other Loft class options. Please come to class prepared to engage in writing, workshopping, and conversation on craft.

Class is appropriate for those hoping to generate new work, as well as those who want to bring finished work in to revise. If the latter describes you, please be willing to disassemble and reimagine the manuscript you plan to bring to the table later this winter. For the purposes of completing a manuscript for this class, in our allotted time together, students should aim to write a minimum of 1,000 words per week.