Class Description
We’ve all read op-eds that come off as pushy or tone-deaf, even when we agree with them. Sometimes a bold, uncompromising approach is useful to shake up readers and make your point heard. But polemics and manifestos can shut down discussion before it starts. So how can you craft an op-ed that is both forceful and generous? How can you create room in your work for those who are eager to resist—or outright dismiss—your point of view? And when is extending the rhetorical olive branch not worth it? In this seminar, we’ll explore ways to add nuance, empathy and self-awareness to opinionated writing, and discuss techniques that can invite readers to engage with an argument without diluting its urgency. Through writing prompts, you’ll generate material on an issue you feel passionate about, share the results and receive honest group feedback. Along the way we’ll find inspiration in columns and essays by deft writers like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Lisa Belkin, Ijeoma Oluo, Junot Diaz, J.D. Vance and David Brooks.
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 detailed information about GrubStreet scholarships, including how to contribute to scholarship funds for other students, click here.
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!
Zoom Participation:
Students are not required to turn their camera on, but are encouraged to participate any way they feel comfortable through functions such as the live chat, emoji reactions, and unmuting the microphone. Learn more about using Zoom here.
Zoom Accessibility:
We ask that instructors enable closed captioning and send a transcript of the session after class. You can also enable closed captioning at any time during the meeting. If your instructor forgets to send the transcript, just send ’em an email!