Class

Self-Care for Writers: Writing as Healing

Addiction. War. Climate Crisis. Loss. Identity. Trauma. Injustice. Dysfunctional Family. Heartbreak. Illness. Hunger. Betrayal. Secrets… As writers we are called to create art out of the human tragedy by sharing our story and divulging the gritty details in order to impart wisdom, insight, and inspire others toward their own healing path.

As writers of creative nonfiction, we meet the challenge of revealing our pain and suffering in writing and facing ourselves on the written page, while simultaneously crafting said pathos into a compelling story if we choose to do so. How do we know where (if at all) to take the story once the confession lands on the page? Or, is writing and releasing the truth enough? In this class we’ll discuss what distinguishes the healing memoir from those often referred to as “self-indulgent” (or expose), and why each are essential to the whole.

We’ll explore the connection and differences between process/healing writing and public (publishable) writing, as well as the role of voice in memoir, separating the voice of experience from the voice of innocence. Additionally, we’ll write together, workshop, and witness the unfolding class anthology— healing, unique, and universal. Readings include Stephen King, Suki Kim, and Donald Miller.

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.