In this course, creative nonfiction writers will explore traditional storytelling methods, especially those which overlap between fiction and memoir. By looking at examples from a wide range of genres, including film, song, painting—even the theme music for Jaws!—we’ll practice exercising the creative muscle that sees ourselves as characters and the experiences we’ve had as tales. We’ll focus on critical elements, like how to begin a story, what makes for worthy content, the essential use of detail, the strengths and limits of dialogue, the power of the white space. The ultimate goal is for us to become aware of an “audience” when we write, so that the documentation of our lives will begin to resemble a “performance” crafted onto paper rather than a private entry in a journal.
Writing Stories About Ourselves
This course is part of Memoir and Personal Essay: Write About Yourself Specialization
Instructor: Said Sayrafiezadeh
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There are 4 modules in this course
In this week, we’ll learn what sorts of techniques we can borrow from fiction and how to overlay them onto our personal stories.
What's included
5 videos1 peer review
In this week, we’ll learn how to create powerful scenes and vivid details by seeing precisely what we’ve put on the page—and what we haven't.
What's included
5 videos1 peer review
In this week, we’ll learn how to open and frame a story by examining the efficacy of various first lines.
What's included
4 videos1 peer review
In this week, we’ll learn when and where to use dialogue, and what makes for the best soundbites.
What's included
5 videos1 peer review
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Explore more from Music and Art
University of Colorado Boulder
Wesleyan University
University of Colorado Boulder
Wesleyan University
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Reviewed on Jan 25, 2021
Very interesting and engaging! I learnt a lot about writing about myself, which is actually very difficult. This course provide a great start for someone who are looking for something like this.
Reviewed on Jan 21, 2019
This class series was clearly presented and I learned a great deal that I will take with me and continue to used to improve my writing.
Reviewed on Feb 18, 2019
Said is an incredible teacher. He speaks with such insight and passion. Inspiring.
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