Writing the Personal Essay

Have you ever wanted to see your words on the pages of your favourite newspaper, magazine, or website? The personal essay is a subgenre of creative nonfiction that focuses on unique stories with universal appeal told from a first-person perspective. In this 8-week course, you’ll learn everything from how to generate ideas to how to structure your first and second drafts to how to pitch your completed piece.

The course will consist of teacher-led instruction, at-home readings, generative in-class writing exercises, and guided peer feedback. You will also be expected to work on your essay at home, between classes. By the end of this session, you will have one completed personal essay.

Week 1: What is the personal essay?

Overview of the genre and generating ideas.

Week 2: Structure

Defining the elements of the personal essay and exploring structure.

Week 3: First Drafts, Part I

Getting words on the page.

Week 4: First Drafts, Part II

Employing techniques from creative writing.

Week 5: Revision

A step-by-step guide for revising your own work.

Week 6: Second Drafts

How to polish your essay and turn it into something publishable.

Week 7: Pitching and Publishing

How to find target outlets and write a great pitch.

Week 8: Ask-Me-Anything with a Working Editor

Guest Editor (TBA) and wrap-up.

Julie Matlin is a writer with pieces appearing in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Chatelaine, The Globe and Mail, Huffington Post, CBC, and other publications. She has one screenplay in development and is currently querying an essay collection, Such a Nice Jewish Girl, about the intersection of faith, grief, and identity, which was supported by a Canada Council for the Arts grant. She has a weakness for puppies, naps, and the music of Jack White. You can follow her on twitter @jmatlin or Instagram and Threads @j.matlin. Portfolio:  www.juliematin.com