The first eight weeks of the course focuses on the writing of
Creative Nonfiction, and the second eight weeks, on Poetry. The course
is designed as an introduction to each genre. We’ll do lots of writing
both inside and outside of class, in addition to reading and discussing
the work of accomplished writers from a wide range of traditions and
sensibilities. Class time will be devoted primarily to writing
exercises, work shopping student writing, and discussing assigned
readings. My goal for the class is that by the end of term, you will
have begun (or continue) to develop a writer’s voice that is distinctly
your own.
Required texts (available from Revolution Books in Puck’s Alley*)
- The Teachers and Writers Handbook of Poetic Forms, Ed. Ron Padgett*
- The Truth of the Matter: Art and Craft in Creative Nonfiction, Dinty W. Moore*
- Course Reader (available from EMA Copiers, Campus Center, near Pizza Hut)
Also required: Journal
Course Requirements
- Online responses:
For each assigned reading, an online response will be due on our
Laulima website by 6AM on the day of class, unless otherwise noted. - Journal: In-class writing exercises. Daily entries outside of class are highly encouraged and can earn extra credit points.
- Attendance, Participation & Discussion: during both class and workshop sessions;
- Portfolio: This will consist of three parts:
1. A Collection of revised and polished
Poetry (5 – 7 poems), and Creative Nonfiction (10-15 pages), a total of
20-25 pages or so, written and rewritten during the semester.;
2. ALL original Drafts (with my comments);
3. Free-writing exercises completed in class.
To pass the course, all work must be completed.