Writing Personal and Lyric Essays

April 2-May 7, 6-8 pm
Art + Literature Laboratory

What would you attempt if you knew you couldn’t fail? The word essay derives from the French infinitive essayer—"to try" or "to attempt.” In this fun, generative class, we’ll celebrate the messy beauty of our “attempts” rather than expecting perfection. 

Over six weeks, we’ll explore what makes for vivid and moving personal and lyric essays, read and discuss the work of other writers, and write several “attempts” of our own. You’ll receive detailed feedback from the group on one of your essay drafts and will leave the class with fresh ideas for revision. We’ll end the series with a celebratory reading where you’ll get a chance to read to the group from your essay-in-progress. 

Outcomes:

• Understand the personal and lyric essay forms

• Learn craft tools to make your essays stronger

• Read and discuss essays from other writers 

• Receive detailed feedback on one of your essays

• Harness your creativity through guided writing prompts

• Celebrate the end of the class with a reading from your essays-in-progress

• Connect with a compassionate community of other writers