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Writing & Literature
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The Stories of Hemingway
Writing & Literature

Please note: New dates 7 Wednesdays, 10/13-12/1. Tonight's class (10/13) will be held online. Ernest Hemingway has been called the most influential writer of the 20th century. He’s also been called a lot of other things, many of them not so flattering. Love him or hate him, there’s no doubt Hemingway’s given us plenty to talk about. In this discussion-based class we’ll focus on the new three-part Ken Burns documentary (available on PBS and PBS.com) and the author’s original short stories. Along with Hemingway’s own words, we’ll look at stories from contemporary and later writers to decide for ourselves how much of that big reputation is earned. Please note: Before the first class you instructor suggests purchasing the new Hemingway Stories book .
Fall 2021

How To Write a 10-Minute Play
Writing & Literature

Did you ever want to try your hand at writing a play but were not sure where to start? Then the 10-minute play is just for you! These short format plays are not “sketches”—they are fully formed, one-act plays with a beginning, middle, and end that drop their characters right into the heart of the action. We’ll cover how to build structure, develop characters, and drive plot. Everyone will have an opportunity to write and revise drafts, culminating with a reading.
Fall 2021

Making Time To Write
Writing & Literature

Life can get in the way of your writing practice, so it is important to find a way to sustain your passion for writing. In this class, you will learn how to ensure that writing no longer feels like an add-on to your life, but rather an embedded practice. Learn how to remove barriers to writing, such as your inner critic, while rediscovering why you love to write. Through writing prompts both reflective and creative, you will get back into the practice of writing, and you will be armed with strategies to fight against blank page anxiety and excuses. Stop procrastinating; let's write!
Fall 2021

Weird Fiction
Writing & Literature

“Weird Fiction,” the creepy, unsettling genre that intersects with literary, horror, fantasy, and magical realism, is perfect reading for dark fall evenings. Each week we’ll read different examples of the genre and discuss what qualifies as “weird” when we talk about fiction. We’ll see whether the weird world looks different through a female lens as we review a selection of stories by Angela Carter, Karen Russell, Aoko Matsuda, Kelly Link, and others. This spooky (not gory) class is perfect for lovers of spectral children, haunted houses, and general weirdness. Texts to be provided by the instructor.
Fall 2021

Telling Your Story: Autobiographical Writing
Writing & Literature

This course will help you unlock memories and add historical context and larger dimensions to what may seem like a small, even unimportant life journey. We will pay special attention to evocation of the times in which characters live. Without consulting the music, the styles, the politics, the social conventions, the influence of money (or the lack of it) that formed the characters and made them who they are, the author runs the risk of leaving them orphaned in history. For inspiration and guidance, the class will look at the work of writers who are masters at mixing personal stories with the great world outside. This small class will incorporate time for sharing and critiquing in a supportive environment. The goal is to leave the class with a story that can be left to your children and your children’s children, an invaluable history for future generations. Writers with limited experience are welcome. Expect to turn in between 1,000-1,500 words (about 4-6 pages) every week.
Fall 2021
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