Poetry + Nonfiction: Hybrid Texts

Class Description

Throughout the duration of this class we’ll be exploring the capacity to shift between different genres (primarily poetry and non-fiction). There are many reasons writers choose to write in a specific genre, but for this class we’ll be discussing what happens when the so-called "boundaries” are blurred. What happens in a piece when it doesn’t quite fit on either side (poetry or nonfiction)? What is being transformed and communicated in the merging of the two? Each week we'll take a look at a topic (examples include: grief, identity, sexuality, etc.) and examine how writers of poetry and non-fiction approach these topics. We'll also take a look at writers who write in both genres and how their approaches to both genres bring forth new understanding. Our big question will be: How do writers push against genre to create something new entirely? This class explores work by Claudia Rankine, Lidia Yuknavitch, Jesmyn Ward, Joy Harjo, and others.

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