Class

4-Week: How To Use Unreliable Memory to Build Trust With The Reader

The instrument of memory underpins the memoirist’s work: the contract between reader and nonfiction writer presumes that the writer will disclose the “correct” version of events. But what happens when the way we remember an event is different from the way others remember it? Or when we remember one thing but then discover a piece of evidence–such as an email, a letter, a photograph, a person–that contradicts our perception?

The purpose of this class is to utilize the unreliability of memory as a vehicle to build trust with our reader. We will explore the liberating potential of contradiction–what happens to our work when we argue with ourselves? What nuances and emotional truths are available when we press into diverging points of view?

This class will primarily be workshop-driven. Each class will begin with a short presentation to provide tools to approach memory and speculation. Authors referenced in these presentations will include Sadiya Hartman, Carmen Maria Machado, and Jill Ciment.
The majority of class time, outside of the presentations, will be spent workshopping and discussing the student’s work. Students can expect to receive written and verbal feedback from me, and verbal feedback from their peers, on up to 10 pages.

All Classes listed on the Loft website take place in Central Time.

Instructions for Accessing This Online Class

In order to access live class meetings, you must have the Zoom application downloaded to your computer. You will also need a WiFi/Internet connection throughout the duration of your scheduled meeting and a computer with audio and video capability. The information to join your Zoom classroom will be provided in your confirmation email upon registration. Please check spam folders if you do not see this email upon registration. For more information on how to use Zoom, please see our training manual here.

Some classes use a supplemental Google Classroom page. Should your teaching artist use Google Classroom, you will be invited to join the classroom via email at least 24 hours in advance of your class (check spam folders if you are not seeing this invitation). Please note that Google Classroom requires a Gmail address to access the Classroom. If you do not have a Gmail account, the email invitation will be sent to the email address we have on file and will prompt you to create a free account or enter an existing account to join the classroom. If we are unable to send an email invitation to your non-gmail account, you will be contacted by a staff member to provide a Gmail address. If you do not have a Gmail account, you can create a free account here. Should you have concerns about this, please contact a Loft staff member at [email protected] or 612-379-8999. For more information on how to use Google Classroom, please see our training manual here.