Class

Research & Reveal: Mining Outside Sources for Creative Writing Projects

In this class, students will let their curiosity take the lead, and explore how outside sources can be used to deepen creative explorations and writing. Although this class is directed mostly toward nonfiction writers, poets and fiction writers may also benefit from our process of seeking new perspectives and new information to help us reveal and render reality. Over the first few weeks, we will discuss practices for making researching both joyful and effective, contemplating readings where outside sources have fruitfully deepened/enlivened creative work. Readings will be provided and may include such authors as Deborah Blum, Bonnie Tsui, Rachel Kaadzi Ghansah, Leslie Jamison, Camille Dungy, Barbara Ehrenreich, Mary Roach, Hanif Abdurraqib, Ta-Nehisi Coates, Olivia Laing, Toni Jensen, Jo Ann Beard, or others. Students will also participate in generative writing exercises to develop unique research questions they find exciting, undertaking some gentle research exercises between meetings. We will practice integrating findings in personally meaningful and emotionally/intellectually impactful ways, then students may submit up to ten pages for a workshop process where their writing is discussed as a group and written instructor feedback is given.

All Classes listed on the Loft website take place in Central Standard Time (CST); make sure you understand your time zone, and adjust accordingly

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.