Creative Writing: Begin with the Body

Often in creative nonfiction, it’s difficult to know where to begin. Which memory do you start with? How do you make sense of the stories you want to tell? These kinds of questions can be paralyzing, but this class, led by essayist Chelsea Hodson, discusses the possibility of using the body itself as a writing tool and a place to begin. Chelsea will discuss a few of her favorite examples of writing about the physical body—everything from poems to essays to short stories. She'll also demonstrate her editing process in real time and discuss her own experiences regarding writing without expectation. 

In under 45 minutes, this class can show you new ways to think about writing memoir and the Class Project can also help you overcome any writer’s block you’re experiencing. No prior knowledge is needed—the class is designed for task-motivated beginners, but will work just as well for more advanced writers. Let's get started!

• Class Overview
• Class Project Overview
• Personal Experience - "Pity the Animal"
• Discussion of Poem by Camonghne Felix
• Discussion of Poem by Natalie Diaz
• Discussion of Essay by Mary Ruefle
• Discussion of Short Story by May-Lan Tan
• Discussion of Short Story by Scott McClanahan
• Personal Experience - "Second Row"
• Class Project Instructions
• Editing Demonstration
• Final Thoughts