Writing What You Know

Class Description

As writers, we're often encouraged to "write what you know." But what if what you know is difficult to write? What if writing what you know might hurt other people's feelings? And how they heck do you make a well structured plot out of a collection of non-linear memories without triggering yourself past a window of threshold?

This seminar is a trauma informed, healing centered workshop that teaches you how to transform personal experiences into an inspirational force that propels you towards creating authentic, impactful works based on true stories. The workshop will include a light craft talk, an equipping session, skill based exercises, generative writing prompts, and an opportunity to share your work out loud with your peers. The workshop will be facilitated by a trauma-informed educator and playwright whose work is rooted in nurturing communal spaces that disrupt passivity, and inspire agency.

Open to all levels and most genres such as fiction, memoir, personal essay, screenwriting, and playwriting.

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.