This
course will introduce students to the craft of writing poetry and short
fiction. Since a major trend in contemporary literature is “mixed-genre
writing,” we will also focus on the exciting ways that poetry and fiction
intersect. For example, we will write poems that integrate narrative elements
usually reserved for fiction writers, such as character, setting, dialogue,
point-of-view, and plot. Conversely, we will write short fiction that employs
poetic elements, such as extended metaphor, line breaks, innovative
punctuation, and memorable imagery.
Throughout
this course, we will ask: how can learning about the craft of fiction improve
our poetry, and how can experimenting with poetic technique improve our fiction
writing? To inspire us, we will read an international selection of well-crafted
poetry, fiction, and mixed genre work.
Please note that this is a writing intensive course: there will be
weekly creative writing assignments, as well as in-class creative writing
exercises. We will also develop our skills through workshop and revision. Other
requirements
include attendance, in-class participation, a presentation, and a final
portfolio of your work.
Required Texts:
Emelihter
Kihleng, My Urohs (Kahuaomanoa Press, 2008). ISBN: 978-0979378836. Paperback
Brandy
Nalani McDougall, The Salt Wind Ka Makani Pa’akai (Kuleana
‘Oiwi
Press, 2008). ISBN: 978-0966822052. Paperback
Alexie,
Sherman. The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven (Grove Press,
2005). ISBN: 978-0802141675. Paperback
Silko,
Leslie Marmon. Storyteller (Arcade Publishing, 1989). ISBN: 978-1559700054.
Paperback
Other readings will be
provided by the instructor in PDF or photocopied form.