Description: This generative course is for writers who are interested in developing a book-length memoir or essay collection, and in sharing their life stories. In this intensive workshop, we will explore many of the key features of the memoir genre including: finding your theme or through-line, dealing with internal and external conflict, finding your structure, and balancing scene vs narrative--showing vs. telling. In class, we'll look at short excerpts that illustrate craft elements of developing memoir and complete writing exercises that build on these topics. By the end of the session, you should have a clearer sense of your theme, tools to assist you in developing your book's structure, and practical techniques to help you move forward with your project. This course focuses on the tools/craft of developing a memoir. While we won’t be doing formal workshopping in class, you are welcome to send the instructor up to 8 double-spaced pages of your work, along with questions you have about that particular excerpt, by June 30. I will return that excerpt to you with comments and suggestions within two weeks.
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Details: Finding your Memoir meets 6:30 - 9:00PM Tuesdays, May 6th, May 13th, May 20th, May 27th, June 17th, and June 24th at Literary Cleveland's office at 13002 Larchmere Blvd. *NOTE: The classes on June 3rd and June 10th will be held remotely online via Zoom.
Prerequisite: None
Genre: Nonfiction
Level: Emerging
Format: Workshop with generative writing outside of class and feedback during class.
Location: This class takes place in person at Literary Cleveland (13002 Larchmere Blvd, Cleveland OH 44120) (except for June 3rd and 10th which will take place remotely online via Zoom.
Size: Limited to 12 participants (including scholarships).
Scholarships: Two scholarship spots are available for this class for writers in Northeast Ohio. Apply by April 28.
Cancellations & Refunds: Cancel at least 48 hours in advance of the first class meeting to receive a full refund. Email info@litcleveland.org.
Work with the best...
Judah Leblang is a storyteller, memoirist and writing teacher. His essays and commentaries have been broadcast throughout the US on more than 150 NPR and ABC-network radio stations, as well as several Canadian stations.
Literary Cleveland Offices
13002 Larchmere Blvd. Cleveland, OH 44120
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