Studies: Creative Writing

CLASS MEETINGS

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Some writers think of place merely as setting. Where the action happens. But a narrative’s place is more complex and layered than that. Rendering place means thinking about history, exteriority and interiority, space and spacial relationships, and how other aspects of the craft of writing – scene, clocks, intimacy, characterization—are related to our understanding of where and when. Thus, this course aims to expand and delve into our ideas of place and space in narrative.

The semester will begin with a study of imagery, setting, and scene, the first tools that a prose writer uses in their approach to rendering place and space. Early lessons will include place-based writing exercises from ku’ualoha ho’omanawanui and Charles Baxter, among others. We’ll talk about scenic clocks, telling versus showing, and pacing. Having spent our first month (or so) with these craft foci, we will then shift gears and ask a series of larger questions. How do we render histories of places and spaces? How do we think “vertically” about land and sea, moving beyond surface description and into greater depths? How do we account for changes in places, and how do we think about the confines of space and its effect on characters and plot? We’ll also consider what it means to write fantastical spaces, and we will study writers whose rigorous world-building and research contribute to their rich and nuanced storytelling. Finally, we’ll think about what Stacey D’Erasmo calls “the space between” — space as a way of understanding intimacy in stories. A place-based research project, annotated bibliography, and in-class presentation will help students tussle with these questions in their own work. The final project– likely a creative work, though a critical option is offered–will emerge from the place-based research project.

Expect a rich reading load and weekly writing assignments. Although the course is aimed at fiction writers, creative nonfiction writers, poets, and other creatives who wish to better understand the where and when of their work are most welcome. The course can also easily be amended to satisfy requirements for the Honors program.

Prerequisites: 313 or instructor approval.

 

COURSE TEXTS

Two paperback books are required for purchase for this course. (Estimated cost: $35.) You are also required to have a notebook or journal for handwriting & sketching. The rest of the course readings are available for free in Laulima. 

 

COURSE ASSIGNMENTS

Writing assignments are due weekly. They include:

• 6 creative experiments, 500-1,000 words each
• 3 forum posts (including 1 discussion lead), 500-1,000 words each
• 3 workshop submissions, 1,500-4,000 words each
• 2 revision reflections, 300-800 words each
• 3 sets of editorial letters consisting of thoughtful comments on classmates’ writing 
• 1 portfolio proposal, 500 – 1,000 words
• 1 annotated bibliography, of at least 7 sources with annotations (1,200+ words)
• 1 final portfolio (in lieu of final exam) consisting of either a critical paper or a creative excerpt with craft analysis, minimum 2,500 words
• other brief writing assignments, including shared vocabulary docs and freewrites
• consistent communication, professionalism, and participation