Class

"Break the Block": How to Actually Overcome Writer’s Block and Start Writing Again

This class is for writers who, for any number of reasons, are struggling to actually write. Maybe you’re feeling uninspired or burned out; maybe it’s been a long time since you’ve written; maybe you’re trying to explore subject matter that is sensitive or traumatic, and are (understandably) having difficulty getting started. “Getting started,” in any of these instances, is much easier said than done.

Class sessions will be equally spent on reading and writing: assigned stories will include pieces by Alice Munro, Jhumpa Lahiri, Rattawut Lapcharoensap, Haruki Murakami, and Lesley Nneka Arimah. We’ll go through a series of exercises specifically designed to “break the block” and overcome any hurdles that might be getting in the way of generating new work, and -- while there's no traditional workshopping component -- we'll experiment with some low-stakes opportunities to exchange work. We’ll also learn to read as writers: how is a published piece constructed, and how can we let our observations inform the choices we might make as we write?

If nothing else, one of the best things we can do for ourselves is to reconnect with the idea of writing as “play”: and once we play, we can start getting to work.

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.