Advanced Memoir Writing

About this course

Participants develop extracts from a memoir or other personal writing project through varied writing activities, discussion and critical feedback. The course examines texts from a range of life writing and considers different approaches to shaping material and experimenting with style. Work-in-progress excerpts are shared with the class for discussion and feedback, with ethical questions around writing about personal experience also considered. Short writing and reading tasks are set between sessions.

What you'll learn

• Identify strengths and areas for development in your writing
• Develop extracts from a memoir or other work-in-progress
• Apply different approaches to shaping personal material
• Discuss ethical considerations involved in writing about your life
• Use additional writing skills to advance a work-in-progress

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for writers who have some previous experience of memoir or creative writing and are developing a personal project. It is not aimed at those trying memoir for the first time. Participants should be prepared to share excerpts for critical feedback and contribute to class discussion.

• A work-in-progress with excerpts to share is expected
• Participation includes peer and class discussion
• Some writing and reading takes place outside class

Before you go

• Bring a pen and paper.
• Allow time outside class for writing and reading.
• Suggested reading will be provided.