Ethics of Personal Narrative

Class Description

Our stories are of course our stories to tell, though when we write from personal experience, we are also telling the stories of those around us—often those closest to us. Writing from our lives forces us to examine whether it is possible to respect the authenticity of another’s experience while asserting our own, or if, as Mark Doty says, “to represent [the lives of others] is to maim.” Just as importantly, it forces us to explore how we remain truthful to our experiences and reflections in the face of conflicting points of view. Is it possible create a guide for what we write about and how? Together we will look at how authors have approached the ethics, challenges, and dangers of personal narrative in order to find a way to tell our own stories.

Students are encouraged to share excerpts of their works-in-progress, and we can discuss together the unique challenges, concerns, and opportunities related to each project!

Class Format

This class will take place using Zoom videoconferencing. About 15 minutes before your class is scheduled to begin, you'll receive an email from your instructor with a link to join the class meeting!

Scholarship Information

Thanks to the excellent literary citizenship of our donors, scholarships are available for all GrubStreet classes. To apply, click the gray "APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIP" button. In order to be considered for a scholarship, you must complete your application at least one week before the start date of a class. Please await our scholarship committee's decision before registering for the class. We cannot hold spots in classes, so the sooner you apply, the better. Scholarships cannot be applied retroactively.

For more more detailed information about GrubStreet scholarships, including how to contribute to scholarship funds for other students, click here.