Class

Gender Is Our Playground: Toward Inclusive, Informed, Joyful Storytelling for Diversifying Writers

Gender affects all our lives and stories—but what even is it? And what’s it doing, for good and for ill, in fiction? This class explores gender and gender diversity in ways that are relevant for fiction writers. We’ll think about how to use gender (in all its delightful complexity!) as a craft tool, always aiming to create space for readers of all genders.

We can only use gender skillfully if we stay curious about how it works in the world, so we'll begin by diving into what gender means as a concept and what it means in people's real lives. In the class's second half, we'll explores how all that can show up—effectively or less so—in storytelling, from word choice to character development to worldbuilding and more. Expect periods of individual reflection, discussion, lectures, creative writing time with prompts for exploration and play, and invitations to read/watch/listen to online resources in support of our learning together.

Though geared toward fiction, the class will also benefit writers of other genres. It's for anybody who wants to spend time thinking deeply and growing as a writer in this area, whether you haven't really thought about gender much yet or you live and breathe these issues. Trans and nonbinary writers are super welcome and supported!

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.