Class

Write Memory: Memoir Writing Tips & Tricks

This class is for anyone interested in bringing true-life stories alive on the page. Class sessions will be evenly divided between close-reading discussions, writing exercises, and workshopping your writing using Liz Lerman’s Critical Response Process that leaves the maker eager and motivated to get back to work. We’ll focus on specific craft techniques through the telling of your own story. Each week we will explore a different craft element: plot, structure, characterization, conflict, setting, dialogue, context, etc. You’ll have the opportunity to submit up to 500 words for peer feedback weekly. You can submit an additional 2,000 words for feedback (line edits and an editorial letter) from the instructor. We'll read excerpts from the latest bestselling and acclaimed memoirs, including memoirs that won or were finalists for the 2022 and 2023 National Book Award. We’ll discuss craft elements in We Could Have Been Friends, My Father and I: A Palestinian Memoir by Raja Shehadeh, The Man Who Could Move Clouds: A Memoir by Ingrid Rojas Contreras, Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer, among other texts. We won't read these books cover to cover as a class, though you are welcome to read them on your own.

No class July 3.

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.